The Modern Yogi Podcast

In this final episode of Chapter 13, Krishna explains that the soul is eternal, unaffected by the actions of the body or material nature, and remains the uninvolved observer. Realizing the unity of the soul within all beings and distinguishing it from the ever-changing body leads to liberation from the cycle of birth and death. #bhagavadgita #gita

Hearing is one of the most important things you can do in Bhakti yoga. In this verse, Krishna describes how some people, though unfamiliar with spiritual knowledge, come to worship the Supreme simply by hearing about Him from others. Their sincere willingness to listen to authoritative teachings enables them to transcend the cycle of birth and death, reaching liberation.

In this episode, Krishna explains that the Supersoul within the body acts as the witness and guide, leading the soul toward liberation. Those who understand this truth through meditation, knowledge, or devotion can attain liberation. #bhagavadgita #gita #krishna

Like to sleep all day? You may be a hibernating bear in your next life. Wild, right? Krishna explains that Prakriti (nature) is the cause of actions and experiences, while Purusha (the soul) enjoys or suffers based on attachment to these actions. #bhagavadgita #gita #krishna

In this episode, Krishna explains that both Prakriti (nature) and Purusha (the soul) are eternal, and everything in the world arises from their union. The ladies then chat about the challenges that can arise from getting caught up in the struggles of the material world. #bhagavadgita #gita #krishna

The Supersoul. The Krishna inside all of us! What is it? Krishna describes the nature of the Supreme Being, which is beyond the senses and formless, yet present everywhere as the source of all existence. #bhagavadgita #gita #krishna

In this episode, Krishna highlights the importance of seeking the truth through detachment from worldly pleasures and a single-minded focus on the Self. He explains that true knowledge involves recognizing the Supreme Truth and striving for liberation. #bhagavadgita #gita #krishna

Krishna describes the components of the field (the body), including the senses, mind, ego, and elements like earth and water, as well as qualities like desire and aversion. He emphasizes the cultivation of virtues such as humility, non-attachment, and devotion to knowledge as essential for self-realization. #bhagavadgita #gita #krishna

Krishna explains that the soul is present in all bodies, and He Himself is the supreme Knower in all fields. He also introduces the concept of knowledge and its components, which include the understanding of the field, the knower, and the ultimate purpose of life, as elaborated by various sages and scriptures. #bhagavadgita #gita #krishna

Welcome to Chapter 13 of the Bhagavad Gita! In these beginning verses, Krishna describes the body as the “field” and the soul as the “knower of the field,” emphasizing that true knowledge comes from understanding the difference between these two.

In the final episode of Chapter 12, Krishna describes the qualities of a devotee who is equally disposed to friends and enemies, free from honor and dishonor, heat and cold, happiness and distress. Those who possess these qualities and faithfully follow the path of devotion are especially dear to Krishna.

Krishna continues to outline the characteristics of a devotee who is dear to Him. Such a person does not disturb others, remains unaffected by external circumstances, and is free envy, fear, and anxiety.

What kind of person is very dear to Krishna? Well, God himself, lets us know! This devotee is free from malice, friendly, compassionate, and without ego or possessiveness. They remain calm in both pain and pleasure, are forgiving, and steadfast in their devotion to God.

Loophole Alert: Krishna provides a hierarchy of devotional practices. He first advises Arjuna to fix his mind and intellect on Him to attain unity with the Divine. If that is too difficult, Krishna suggests practicing regular meditation on Him, and if meditation is too challenging, performing selfless actions dedicated to Him. For those who find even this difficult, Krishna recommends acts of char...

Krishna explains that worshiping the formless aspect of the Divine is difficult and fraught with challenges because it involves intense discipline and abstract meditation. He assures Arjuna that those who worship His personal form with unwavering devotion and surrender, focusing their minds on Him, are rescued swiftly from the ocean of birth and death aka the rat race of life after life!

Welcome to Chapter 12! Arjuna inquires about the better path: worshiping the formless Brahman or the personal form of Krishna. Which one is better? Krishna responds that those who focus their minds on His personal form with steadfast devotion are considered most perfect.

As we close out this chapter, Krishna emphasizes that those who engage in pure devotion, free from selfish motives, and perform their duties with love, faith, and dedication can attain Him.

Krishna reassures a trembling Arjuna, who is overwhelmed by the divine vision of Krishna's universal form. Krishna encourages Arjuna to be free from fear and confusion, and instead, return to a state of composure, seeing His more familiar, human-like form.

It’s been a whirlwind for Arjuna! Arjuna, overwhelmed by the divine vision of Krishna's universal form, humbly bows down and seeks forgiveness for any offenses he may have committed in ignorance. He acknowledges Krishna's supreme, infinite nature and requests to see his familiar, more approachable human form.

Despite his initial fear and confusion, Arjuna surrenders himself completely to Krishna, seeking refuge. He addresses Krishna as the Supreme Creator and sustainer of the universe, acknowledging his limitless power and glory. He admits his inability to fully comprehend or understand Krishna's divine manifestations and asks for forgiveness.

Krishna helps Arjuna realize that all beings (except the Pandavas) are already destined for destruction by His will. Arjuna seeks refuge in Krishna's mercy and guidance, feeling humbled and overwhelmed by the revelation of Krishna's universal form!

Arjuna sees the grandeur and vastness of the universal form of Krishna, filled with divine radiance and adorned with countless divine weapons. Feeling a bit bewildered, Arjuna seeks reassurance and guidance from Krishna, recognizing him as the Supreme Lord of the universe.

This chapter keeps getting better and better! These verses vividly depict the majestic vision of Krishna's universal form that Arjuna witnesses, highlighting the boundless and all-encompassing nature of the Supreme Being, which leaves Arjuna in a state of profound awe and reverence.

Our old friend Sanjaya comes back for this episode! He describes the reaction of Arjuna upon witnessing Krishna's universal form…and the goosebumps that arise!

Arjuna requests and then is granted the divine vision to see Krishna's universal form. HOLY COW! Krishna responds to Arjuna, inviting him to behold His hundreds and thousands of divine forms, varied in their expressions and grandeur!