“To show them special mercy, I, dwelling in their hearts, destroy with the shining lamp of knowledge the darkness born of ignorance.”
- Bhagavad Gita As It Is 10.11
The months of November and December are an auspicious period highlighted by many events including Diwali, Kartik, and Gita Jayanti (World Gita Day). Many celebrate this festive time by offering prayers, giving gifts, and gathering with friends and family.
The Bhagavad Gita represents the perfect gift during this period. In these unprecedented times, the timeless knowledge of the Gita is a go-to source to find solace and seek answers to many questions.
Why Bhagavad Gita?
On one level, the Gita was spoken to convince and comfort Arjuna in his moment of weakness, Krishna however, had a deeper purpose in mind. On our own battlefield of life we go through situations, experiences, and moments of doubt, which lead us to question beyond the routine of life! The Bhagavad Gita offers timeless answers to those perennial questions. We look up at the stars and wonder what lies beyond. When did it all begin? What happens when I die? Why does love never seem to last? Why do bad things happen to people who are good and decent? We often question our goals, and wonder where real happiness is to be found. We yearn for answers which elucidate the deeper meaning behind our lives.
Ancient wisdom, eternally relevant. The Bhagavad Gita, then, is not just a spare wheel that we call upon in times of trouble, but rather the steering wheel which we tightly grip to guide the journey of our life. A journey which, we hope, will bring us to true happiness.
The Bhagavad Gita is a theological and philosophical classic. If we had to choose a single book to represent the spiritual and cultural traditions of India, we would certainly choose the Gita. In 700 beautiful verses it summarises the philosophical conclusions of the Vedas, the ancient scriptures written approximately 5000 years ago in the Sanskrit language.
The scope of the Bhagavad Gita is huge. It covers topics ranging from religion to relationships, science to sociology, leadership to lifestyle management. Indeed, the secrets to life, the universe and everything. In every generation, over thousands of years, it has provided unceasing inspiration to thinkers, leaders, and spiritualists alike.
How can I get Bhagavad Gita?
Copies are available from ISKCON Toronto through contactless delivery. Please contact 416-400-7001 or email books@torontokrishna.com also visit: https://torontokrishna.com/spiritual-books
What if I have Bhagavad Gita?
Please consider sharing the Bhagavad Gita in the following ways.
Gift: Purchase copies and provide as a gift to friends, family, and colleagues
Sponsor: Contribute to Sastra Daan (Gift of Knowledge) program for placement of Bhagavad Gita in many venues including courts, prisons, hospitals, and hotels
Distribute: Reach out to your personal network and ask them to take copies of Bhagavad Gita
Those who participate will be included as part of a maha-yagna at Kuruksetra (site of where Bhagavad Gita was spoken) for Gita Jayanti/World Gita Day on December 14.
*Why Bhagavad Gita section from Gita Life: A Summary of the Bhagavad-Gita by HG Sutapa prabhu