Bhagavad Gita occupies a prominent place among the Hindu religious books revered by Hindus. The book contains quotes that throw light on the lost path for the confused mind. In Mahabharata, a confused Arjun turns to Lord Krishna for advice on the battlefield. Lord Krishna clarified Arjun’s doubts by stating the principles of the world. The same principles can solve many of our life problems even in the present day.
Here are some important teachings of Bhagavad Gita:
1 Concentrate On Your Goal, Do Your Work, and Focus Not on the Result
Suppose, you have a certain goal in mind, your dream is to achieve a certain position in the organization where you are working, in the next five years. So will have to work hard to get there. But if you start dreaming about the perks and other rewards of that position, but in case if you fail to achieve the said position you will feel miserable. The Bhagavad Gita tells you to focus on the importance of doing your duty rather than on the end result.
2 Human Life is Full of Battles: Never Shrink in Fear- Fight to the Last, Stand Your Ground
The Supreme Power has created an even human being in a separate way. Will we say, everyone is a Masterpiece? When every action you do turns negative against your goal, do not shrink in fear. Do not expect results. Always understand, that it is fears and expectations that cause restrictions and limitations.
3 Identity, Recognise, and Accept Equality in Life
Now, this quote is difficult one to follow. But, definitely, life will guide any person towards achieving the knowledge. After facing many challenges in life, you tend to see all living and non-living beings as equal. Let it be any circumstance- the feeling of suffering and joy will mean the same.
4 Desire Will Come to Your Mind and Go
As a human being, you are prone to getting desires. Yet, you should neither suppress a desire nor allow it to take control of your life and mind. The lessons in Bhagvad Gita advise you to watch and enjoy the show. Remember, doing evil actions just for the sake of fulfilling desires is harmful. Getting caught in the chains of desire will always end in harm, and stress.
5 A Mind Full of Thoughts about Money, Cannot Concentrate Nor Mediate
Meditation is the best form of non-physical activity to achieve “ Inner Peace” and “Sadhana”. The Bhagvad Gita says that a human mind hell-bent on only attaining money cannot focus on meditation nor indulge in the “Inner Self”. So, the concerned person’s mind will always be unstable, and meditation is out of reach.
6 Whatever Has Happened is Only for the Good Future. The Activities That are Happening are also for a Good Cause. The Happenings in the Future, They are Also for a Good Cause
The above saying is self-explanatory. It emphasise the continuance of doing your duty, no matter the result-victory or failure. Please note that every activity in this world happens for a reason. You can bask, one time in glory and there will be a bad phase, where everyone will put you on the firing range.
7 Change is Permanent. This is Universal Law. You Can Either Become Rich or Pauper in a Second
Difficult to believe this is from Bhagvad Gita. It needs some clarification- Just imagine, a billionaire has more than his worth of money in the share market. Suppose, the share market went for a nose dive, what will be his fate-a pauper? Other way, if a poor man wins a lottery worth crore of rupees, his fortune changes in seconds. In short permanence is never in a human life. When you accept change as part of life, you can handle all the tough situations in a calm manner.
8 Fear Factor is a Disability
The achievement will be nil if you have a fear factor in your mind. Fear, in other words, means doubts in your ability. It will not only make you forget the goal out of fear but will make you worthless. But in the case of fearless souls, the sky is the limit. Fear of the future and self-respect are two obstacles to reaching your goal.
9 You are Born Empty-Handed, and You Will Leave This Earth Empty-Handed
If you are on the path of gaining more wealth, please remember you will be none of the wealth nor other material possessions to your funeral or grave.
10 Lust, Anger as well Greed-Ways to Self-destruction
The three mentioned are always harmful to the entire mankind. Extreme cravings for sex will turn humans into sex maniacs or nymphomaniacs. Anger- people will think you are dominating them and you lose friendships and relationships. Greed-you are always restless. The body becomes host to problems such as high blood pressure and jealousy.
Above are some of the important teachings of Bhagvad Gita.
Waiting for your views on this blog.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
5th September 2023
Prakash mahadalkar
Good summary of teachings from Bhagwat Geeta.