Gita Acharan

  U nderstanding varnas (social classifications) and karmas (actions) associated with them based on the gunas springing from their nature is one of the most challenging facets of the Bhagavad Gita. The difficulty is compounded by the fact that we are deeply identified with one varna or another. The following verses clarify that the varnas are not hierarchical and the karmas performed by anyone have equal potential to attain siddhi (perfection or freedom). Krishna says, “With devotion to swa-karma (one’s deed or duty) one attains siddhi as this devotion is nothing but worshipping Him from whom all beings rise and by whom all this is pervaded” (18.45-18.46). Earlier Krishna used swa-dharma (one’s own nature) and now uses swa-karma . Essentially, swa-karma emerges from swa-dharma . Firstly, in today’s context, in almost all cultures and societies, some professions like sports, acting and singing receive more admiration than others. Similarly, in the olden days, the impo...

  T he evolution of life is a product of divisions and differences. However, there is ‘oneness’ behind these divisions, like an invisible thread supporting different pearls to form a necklace (7.7). The goal is to develop the ability to perceive this ‘oneness’ among the illogical and unreasonable divisiveness we see around us. This ability can be cultivated through awareness of ‘oneness’ and by attaining balance in our actions (2.38, 6.16). Krishna mentioned about four social classifications that happen based on gunas and karmas . He says, “Tranquility, restraint, austerity, purity, patience, integrity, knowledge, wisdom, and faith - are the natural qualities of a Brahmin as springing from their own nature (18.42). Valor, strength, fortitude, dexterity, not fleeing from battle, charity, and leadership abilities are the natural qualities of Kshatriyas springing from their own nature (18.43). Agriculture, dairy farming, and commerce are the natural qualities of Vaishyas . Actions ...

  A t the time of the creation of the universe, it was pure energy and matter formed subsequently. Scientifically, it is accepted that there were minor fluctuations in terms of temperature, density and the ratio of matter-antimatter in the very early universe. There is no scientific reason for these variations. These fluctuations are responsible for the creation of matter and science agrees that God does play dice to create the diversity we see around us today. In this regard, Krishna says that his lower nature ( prakriti ) is eightfold. Fire, earth, water, air and space are building blocks of the material world and mann (mind), buddhi (intellect) and ahankaar are for the living entities (7.4). Fire stands for the energy which has been in existence since the beginning. Energy was converted into matter which has a solid state (earth), a liquid state (water) and gaseous (air). Space is needed to hold all of them. In the case of living entities, logical thinking is needed for s...