Before we go commence study of Bhagavad gītā, it is worth going through some high level background context about Mahabharata.
Mahabharat – A Divine Epic
Mahabharat is a mesmerizing scripture, categorized as इतिहास of Bhārata. It starts from King Shantanu marrying Ganga-ji (giving birth to Devavrata, later known as Bhishma) and on other side Rishi Parashara marrying Matsyagandha (giving birth to Krishna-Dwaipayan, later known as Shree Ved Vyaas). The scripture ends with King Janmejay (son of King Parikshit) and his Sarpabali yajna. This is the only text that covers all four Purushartha for a human being – Dharma, Artha, Kaam and Moksha. Bhagwan Shri Adi Shankaracharya-ji calls Mahabharat, a fifth Veda, quoting it as reference (प्रमाण) in some of his commentaries.
Mahabharat is a story of praiseworthy characters. They all have their glories, and at the same time, their imperfections. Heros are epitome of strength and goodness, but struggle with addictions and delusions. Villains are filthy characters with exceptionally strong commitments to their beliefs and dedication in their action. At times, villain’s actions seem logical, and hero’s actions seem to repel us. (Book Ref: Difficulty of being good). In any case, these personalities demand deep reflection. We might find that, we are living lives of these characters, one or more of them. Times change, characters change, but the inner conflict remains. Thus, this scripture is best understood if we study these characters as ones within ourselves.
Bhagavad gītā – A Guiding Light
Bhagavad gītā is a song that not only brings such conflict on the surface, but guides an individual to choose the right path, based on his role in society, phase of life, personality, and evolve spiritually. This is one scripture that is truly apt in modern time, for today’s delusional but powerful human race. (Article Ref: The Unique Aspects of Bhagavad Gita: Insights for Spiritual Growth).
श्रीकृष्णार्पणम् अस्तु ।
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