Bhagavad Gita Quotes + Their Meanings & Explanations
The Bhagavad Gita is a sacred text of Hinduism that has been revered and followed by millions of people worldwide. Its verses have been quoted time and again, not only in religious settings but also in philosophical and spiritual discussions. The teachings of the Bhagavad Gita transcend religion and are considered to be universal truths that can guide individuals towards leading a meaningful life.
The importance of Bhagavad Gita quotes lies in their ability to provide guidance for all aspects of life, including morality, ethics, spirituality, relationships, and self-improvement. The verses offer insights into how one can achieve inner peace through devotion, meditation, and karma (action). They also shed light on the concept of dharma (duty), which emphasizes the importance of fulfilling one's obligations with honesty and sincerity.
Moreover, many famous personalities have drawn inspiration from the Bhagavad Gita's teachings.
Below are various Bhagavad Gita quotes with their meanings/commentaries;
“The wise see that there is action in the midst of inaction and inaction in the midst of action. Their consciousness is unified, and every act is done with complete awareness.” – Bhagavad Gita
The wise see that there is action in the midst of inaction and inaction in the midst of action. Their consciousness is unified, and every act is done with complete awareness. They know that everything that happens has a purpose and that no event or situation is random. This wisdom leads them to live life fully and experience all aspects of it.
“On this path effort never goes to waste, and there is no failure. Even a little effort toward spiritual awareness will protect you from the greatest fear.” – Bhagavad Gita
Spiritual awareness has been shown to be beneficial in a number of ways. It can protect you from the greatest fear, it can help you build positive habits, and it can even increase your happiness. So if you're looking for ways to improve your life, be sure to include some spiritual awareness into your routine.
“One who sees inaction in action, and action in inaction, is intelligent among men.” – Bhagavad Gita
There are many people who see inaction as a bad thing and action as the only way to get things done. They believe that if you're not constantly moving forward, you're not doing anything. However, this is not always the case. Inaction can sometimes be the best way to get what you want. For example, if you want something from someone else, you may need to start by not asking for it. By being passive, they may be more likely to give in.
“Through selfless service, you will always be fruitful and find the fulfillment of your desires.” – Bhagavad Gita
There are a lot of people out there who believe that if they do something for others without expecting anything in return, then they will be happy and fulfilled. This is not always the case, as many people find themselves feeling empty and unfulfilled. In order to find the fulfillment that they desire, it is important to give back to others in a selfless way. By doing this, you will be able to help others, while also receiving something in return.
“I am time, the destroyer of all; I have come to consume the world.” – Bhagavad Gita
This quote is saying that time is the main factor that destroys everything, including people. Time can be a very destructive force, especially when it passes too quickly. This quote can be used to show how time can be a negative force in people's lives.
“Always perform your duty efficiently and without attachment to the results, because by doing work without attachment one attains the Supreme.” – Bhagavad Gita
One of the most important things that one can do to achieve success in life is to develop a sense of detachment from results. This is often referred to as "work efficiency." In other words, always perform your duty efficiently and without attachment to the results, because by doing work without attachment one attains the Supreme. This is a lesson that has been passed down through many generations and it is one that should be learned and applied as soon as possible.
“I am death, which overcomes all, and the source of all beings still to be born.” – Bhagavad Gita
The following quote is from the book "The Bhagavad Gita" by Krishna. It is often used to describe the nature of God. "I am death, which overcomes all, and the source of all beings still to be born." This statement is revealing of the essence of God. Death is something that we all experience, but it is also something that can be overcome.
“The deluded ones, who restrain their organs of action but mentally dwell upon the sense enjoyment, are called hypocrites.” – Bhagavad Gita
There is a group of people who, while having the ability to do things, restrain themselves from doing them because they know that they would not enjoy it. They call themselves hypocrites. Hypocrites are deluded in the sense that they think they are doing something good when in reality they are only restraining their organs of action. Their minds are constantly dwelling on the sense of enjoyment, which is what leads to their downfall.
“When meditation is mastered, the mind is unwavering like the flame of a lamp in a windless place.” – Bhagavad Gita
Meditation is a practice that has been around for centuries and has been used to calm the mind. When mastered, meditation allows the user to control their thoughts and emotions. This can lead to a more focused mind and improved productivity.
“Valour, glory, firmness, skill, generosity, steadiness in battle and ability to rule – these constitute the duty of a soldier. They flow from his own nature.” – Bhagavad Gita
The qualities of a good soldier are valor, glory, firmness, skill, and generosity. These qualities flow from the nature of a soldier, and they are the duty of all soldiers. Soldiers must be brave in battle and able to rule their subordinates. They must be skilled in using their weapons, and must be patient and steadfast in the face of danger.
“The wise work for the welfare of the world, without thought for themselves.” – Bhagavad Gita
There are people in the world who do extraordinary things without looking for anything in return. These are the people who dedicate their lives to the welfare of others, without expecting anything in return. They are called humanitarian workers. They go to places where there is conflict or poverty and try to make a difference. They work for free, often risking their own safety, and they don't care about fame or fortune. Their only goal is to help people in need.
“Delivered from selfish attachment, fear, and anger, filled with me, surrendering themselves to me, purified in the fire of my being, many have reached the state of unity in me.” – Bhagavad Gita
Many have found liberation from the chains of selfish attachment, fear, and anger by surrendering themselves completely to me. Through my love and guidance, they have been purified in the fire of my being and have reached a state of unity with me. This is a powerful path to liberation, and those who follow it are blessed with immense peace and happiness.
“When a man dwells on the pleasure of sense, attraction for them arises in him. From attraction arises desire, the lust of possession, and this leads to passion, to anger.” – Bhagavad Gita
When a man dwells on the pleasure of sense, attraction for them arises in him. From attraction arises desire, the lust of possession, and this leads to passion, to anger. These are all powerful emotions that can take control of our lives if we're not careful. Pushing ourselves too hard or indulging in activities that make us feel pleasure too quickly can lead to addiction, destructive relationships, and even physical health problems.
“From passion comes confusion of mind, then loss of remembrance, the forgetting of duty. From this loss comes the ruin of reason, and the ruin of reason leads man to destruction.” – Bhagavad Gita
The deterioration of reason is a gradual process that starts with small misunderstandings and gradually leads to a complete destruction of a man. People gradually lose the ability to think logically and make sound decisions, eventually leading to their own destruction. This process is known as the forgetting of duty, and it can happen to anyone, regardless of their level of intelligence or education. It's a result of passion getting the better of rational thought.
“Pleasure from the senses seems like nectar at first, but it is bitter as poison in the end.” – Bhagavad Gita
The pleasure from the senses seems like nectar at first, but it is bitter as poison in the end. What initially feels like a sensual feast can quickly turn sour if not handled with care. The five senses are powerful motivators and can be incredibly enjoyable when used in moderation, but they can also be dangerous if abused. When indulging in any one of the five senses, be sure to remember that too much of anything can be harmful.
“Death is as sure for that which is born, as birth is for that which is dead. Therefore, grieve not for what is inevitable.” – Bhagavad Gita
Death is as sure for that which is born, as birth is for that which is dead. Therefore, grieve not for what is inevitable. Instead, focus on the life that you have left and make the most of it while you can. Remember, there are no guarantees in life, but there are always chances to make something beautiful out of a situation. Don't be afraid to try new things or take risks - these can be the best adventures.
“Work for work’s sake, not for yourself. Act but do not be attached to your actions. Be in the world, but not of it.” – Bhagavad Gita
Work for work's sake, not for yourself. This is the essence of detachment. We often get attached to our actions and become consumed by them. This is not the way to achieve our goals. We should be in the world, but not of it. Our goal should be to be effective and efficient, not to be attached to what we are doing. Detachment allows us to be impartial and objective.
“Having hands and feet everywhere; having eyes, head, and face everywhere; having ears everywhere; the creator exists in the creation by pervading everything.” – Bhagavad Gita
There is a belief in many spiritual traditions that the creator exists within and pervades everything. Some say this is because of our interconnectedness with all life, while others believe that it is because we are made in the image of the creator. Regardless of the reasoning, it is clear that the creator is present in every aspect of creation.
“They live in wisdom who see themselves in all and all in them, who have renounced every selfish desire and sense-craving tormenting the heart.” – Bhagavad Gita
There is no escaping the reality that we are all connected. And while this may seem like a daunting thought, it is one that can be embraced with mindfulness and compassion. In fact, by living in wisdom, we can see ourselves in all and everyone around us. This opens up our heart to connect with others in a more genuine way and allows us to renounce our selfish desires and sense-craving.
“Approach those who have realized the purpose of life and question them with reverence and devotion; they will instruct you in this wisdom.” – Bhagavad Gita
If you have been on a journey of self-discovery, you have likely come to realize that the purpose of life is something greater than what we once thought. Perhaps you have read about this in your favorite spiritual text or heard it from a wise friend. If so, you are in good company. Many people have discovered the same thing over the years, and they have all passed this knowledge on to others.
“I am the ritual and the sacrifice; I am true medicine and the mantram. I am the offering and the fire which consumes it, and the one to whom it is offered.” – Bhagavad Gita
In the traditions of some Native American tribes, the medicine person is known as the ritual and the sacrifice. They are the one who offers guidance to the tribe in matters of ceremony and health, and they are also responsible for carrying out the tribe's rites of passage. This sacred role often requires long hours of study and prayer in order to be perfect. It is through these practices that the medicine person is seen as a true healer and guardian.
“You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions.” – Bhagavad Gita
Employees have a right to perform their prescribed duties, but they are not entitled to the fruits of their actions. This is especially true in the case of workers who are not paid for their time spent working. If an employee is not paid for their work, they can't legally claim any benefits that come with employment, such as sick days or vacation time.
“You should never engage in action for the sake of reward, nor should you long for inaction.” – Bhagavad Gita
People are often swayed by immediate rewards, such as feeling happy or satisfied. However, this type of thinking is flawed because it leads to short-term gratification and can be detrimental in the long run. For example, if you want to lose weight, you should not wait for a reward – like feeling thinner – to motivate you. Instead, you should focus on making healthy choices and enjoying the process.
“You are what you believe in. You become that which you believe you can become.” – Bhagavad Gita
You are what you believe in. You become that which you believe you can become. Belief is everything; it is the fuel that powers our aspirations and drives our actions. Our beliefs define who we are and how we see the world. They create our personal reality, which in turn dictates our experience on this planet. The truth is, without belief, we cannot be successful. We must find something to stand behind, something to aspire to, and something to give us purpose.
“It is better to strive in one’s own dharma than to succeed in the dharma of another.” – Bhagavad Gita
It is often said that it is better to strive in one's own dharma than to succeed in the dharma of another. This is because, in striving to do what is right for oneself, one can learn and grow in ways that are unique to oneself. In pursuing the dharma of another person or organization, one can become so focused on following someone else's path that one may lose sight of what makes them happy and fulfilled.
“Your enemies will speak many unmentionable words and scorn your ability. What could be more painful than this? You will go to heaven if killed, or you will enjoy the earth if victorious. Therefore, get up with a determination to fight, O Arjuna.” – Bhagavad Gita
If you're anything like most people, your enemies are the ones who say the unmentionable things and scorn your ability. It can be incredibly painful to have these kinds of people in your life. However, if you're smart, you'll know that going to heaven is much more important than winning in this life. And that's why it's so important to have God on your side.
“With a drop of my energy I enter the earth and support all creatures.” – Bhagavad Gita.
He believed that with a drop of his own energy, he could enter into the lives of other creatures, and help them in their struggles.
“I am the beginning, middle, and end of creation.” – Bhagavad Gita
This quote is a declaration of spiritual power and a reminder that all things come from God. The phrase is used to emphasize the interconnectedness of all things in the universe.
“Those who always practice this teaching of Mine, with faith and free from cavil, are freed from the bondage of Karma.” – Bhagavad Gita
The practice of meditation is often seen as a difficult and tedious task. However, if one practices with faith and free from cavil, they are freed from the bondage of Karma. Meditation is an essential practice for anyone looking to achieve peace and happiness in their life.
“The Lord dwells in the hearts of all creatures and whirls them round upon the wheel of maya. Run to him for refuge with all your strength, and peace profound will be yours through his grace.” – Bhagavad Gita
The spiritual consciousness of all creatures is constantly in motion. This motion is called maya, and it is the cause of all illusion. In order to escape from maya, we must go to the Source of all life. This Source is the Lord, and by seeking refuge in him, we will be restored to our true nature. There is peace in knowing that the Lord resides within us and whirls us around upon the wheel of his love.
“At the beginning of time I declared two paths for the pure heart: jnana yoga, the contemplative path of spiritual wisdom, and karma yoga, the active path of selfless service.” – Bhagavad Gita
At the beginning of time, two paths were declared for those seeking liberation from self-imposed suffering: jnana yoga, the contemplative path of spiritual wisdom, and karma yoga, the active path of selfless service. While each has its own strengths and weaknesses, both offer a way to achieve ultimate peace and happiness.
“Even the wise are confused about what is action and what is inaction.” – Bhagavad Gita
Inaction can be defined as doing nothing to change a situation. On the other hand, action can be defined as taking some sort of action in order to change or improve a situation. For example, voting is considered an act of action because it signifies that someone believes they can make a difference by changing government policy. However, not voting may also be considered an act of inaction, as it does not directly help to change the government.
“I am heat; I give and withhold the rain. I am immortality and I am death; I am what is and what is not.” – Bhagavad Gita
It is a reminder that we are all elements of the universe and that we have the power to make change. The words remind us that we must be careful with our actions because they can have consequences. They also serve as a reminder that everything changes and that we must be prepared for anything.
“Do your work with the welfare of others always in mind.” – Bhagavad Gita
Doing work that benefits others is not a job requirement, but it should always be a part of our mindset when looking for a job. When we think about the welfare of others, we are more likely to take care of them and do our best work. It’s important to remember that we are all in this together and it’s our responsibility to help each other succeed.
“You should perform your duty with a view to guide people and for universal welfare.” – Bhagavad Gita
In order to perform one's duties with a view to guiding people and for the general good, it is important to have a sense of purpose. This is something that can be developed through reflection and contemplation on the part of the individual. Furthermore, it is also important to be impartial and not allow personal biases to cloud one's judgment. Finally, it is necessary to take into account the interests of others when making decisions.
“There are three gates to this self-destructive hell: lust, anger, and greed. Renounce these three.” – Bhagavad Gita
Bhagavad Gita warns us about three gates that lead to destruction: lust, anger, and greed. If we want to avoid going down this self-destructive path, we need to renounce these sins. There are many ways to do this, but the most important thing is to recognize when we're succumbing to temptation and make a conscious effort to resist.
“The one who has faith, and is sincere, and has mastery over the senses, gains this knowledge. Having gained this, one at once attains the supreme peace.” – Bhagavad Gita
The one who has faith, and is sincere, and has mastery over the senses, gains this knowledge. Having gained this, one at once attains supreme peace. People who have faith can see things that others cannot. For example, a person with faith can see the invisible. Faith enables one to gain control over their senses and understand things that are hidden from others. It is because of this ability that people who possess faith are often called prophets or saints.
“The intention behind action is what matters.” – Bhagavad Gita
The intention behind any action is what matters most. When you take the time to think about why you are doing something, you can make sure that your actions are based on the right things. This is especially important when it comes to your relationships with others. If you want to have a positive relationship with someone, it is important to be understanding and respectful of their intentions.
“Whatever action is performed by a great man, common men follow in his footsteps, and whatever standards he sets by exemplary acts, all the world pursues.” – Bhagavad Gita
The purpose of this article is to explore what it means when we say that everyone follows in the footsteps of great men. This is something that we see repeated time and time again throughout history. Whether it is a president or a teacher, if they set high standards by exemplary acts, then the world will pursue to achieve those same levels of success.
“As the heat of a fire reduces wood to ashes, the fire of knowledge burns to ashes all karma.” – Bhagavad Gita
We all know the feeling of warmth and security that comes with a cozy fire. But what happens when the heat of the fire diminishes the wood to ashes? The fire of knowledge burns to ashes all karma- that is, all past actions and experiences that have led us to this moment. In other words, it's time to let go and be open to new possibilities. In order to do this, we must first become aware of how our thoughts create our reality.
“That one is dear to me who runs not after the pleasant or away from the painful, grieves not, lusts not, but lets things come and go as they happen.” – Bhagavad Gita
The following is an excerpt from the article "That one is dear to me who runs not after the pleasant or away from the painful, grieves not, lusts not, but lets things come and go as they happen." The author talks about the importance of living in the moment and not worrying about what is going to happen next. He also shares a story about how his father taught him this lesson.
“Seek refuge in the attitude of detachment and you will amass the wealth of spiritual awareness. The one who is motivated only by the desire for the fruits of their action, and anxious about the results, is miserable indeed.” – Bhagavad Gita
Detachment is the key to personal wealth, and spiritual awareness. If we can learn to detach ourselves from the results of our actions, we will be in a much better position to focus on what we are doing and achieve our goals.
“Man is made by his belief. As he believes, so he is.” – Bhagavad Gita
This is a belief that has been around for centuries and it still holds true today. People are shaped by the things that they believe in. If someone believes in something, they will put their effort into trying to make it a reality. This is why people can be so different. It all comes down to what someone believes in.
“I am born in every age to protect the good, to destroy evil, and to reestablish dharma.” – Bhagavad Gita
Every day, the world faces a choice: to stand up against evil and protect the good, or to succumb to it. This is the mission of every person - to be born in every age to fulfill this role. The quote reflects his belief that everyone has a duty to play in the world, and that this includes fighting against those who threaten society and the planet.
“Entering the earth I support all beings with My energy; becoming the sap-giving moon I nourish all the plants.” – Bhagavad Gita
The full quote reads: "When we enter the earth, we support all beings with our energy. When we become the sap-giving moon, we nourish all the plants." This simple but powerful sentiment has the ability to inspire us to connect with our natural environment and consider the interconnectedness of all life.
“Actions do not cling to me because I am not attached to their results. Those who understand this and practice it live in freedom.” – Bhagavad Gita
Living in freedom means that actions do not cling to us because we are not attached to their results. We let go, and action follows its own natural course. This is a difficult lesson to learn, but the benefits are immeasurable. When we are free from attachments, we can focus on our goals without worrying about the consequences. We can be ourselves and live our lives without restraint.
“One who neither rejoices nor grieves, neither likes nor dislikes, who has renounced both the good and the evil, and who is full of devotion, such a person is dear to Me.” – Bhagavad Gita
There is a great difference between those who rejoice and those who grieve. Those who like things, or those who dislike things, also have their own set of emotions. But one who has renounced both the good and evil - this is the state that one should aim to attain.
“Sever the ignorant doubt in your heart with the sword of self-knowledge. Observe your discipline. Arise.” – Bhagavad Gita
Self-knowledge is the key to true peace of mind. Too often, we allow our doubts to creep into our hearts and cloud our judgment. But the truth is that we can overcome these obstacles with the help of discipline. Rise up and become aware of your thoughts and actions, so that you can make the best choices for yourself.
“I continue to act, but I am not driven by any need of my own.” – Bhagavad Gita
It expresses the idea that humans are fundamentally driven by their own needs and desires, rather than by anything else. This can be a difficult concept to understand, but it is an important part of Sartre's philosophy.
“A Karma-yogi performs action by body, mind, intellect, and senses, without attachment, only for self-purification.” – Bhagavad Gita
Karma yoga is a practice that primarily focuses on the union of body, mind, and intellect. This type of practice seeks to purify oneself by performing actions without attachment, for the sole purpose of self-improvement. Karma yogis believe that by working on all four levels of self-awareness, they can achieve a more balanced and peaceful life.