This is a review of my preferred translation and commentary of the Bhagavad Gita. Today was the second meeting of the study group held at Unity Church of Sarasota where the class decided to focus on the Michael Beloved version called Bhagavad Gita Explained. This book provides some unique attractions.
First, the academic layout makes clear sense to even a beginning Gita scholar. It is clear, simple and consistent. The book is physically larger than most, biblically large. From its weight one senses that the author was unafraid to comment the heck out of the verses, providing not only the conversation at hand, but much more. Upon completion of the text and even long before, the reader has gained invaluable insight into the ways of the times, the caste system, yoga, psychology, reincarnation, devotion and spiritual advancement.
A second feature of this version appreciated, is the clarity of translation. Believe it or not, this is unique. When cross checking the Sanskrit, it doesn’t take long to discover that some translators of the Gita are; too vague, overly general, and redundant. Some reveal a lack of diverse English vocabulary available to the translator. In a few circumstances we find translators skewing word meanings for sect-motivated purposes. In the case of translating Gita, one would need a universe of English words at his disposal to choose from. What was once a handful of Sanskrit has become millions of words in English. Words are important.
When it comes to making spiritual progress through the application of what it says in our holy texts, accuracy means everything!
Third, the author keeps the conversation contained in the Gita within the context of the original story from which it came. This story of origin is called, ‘The Mahabharata’. This is a great gift – an opportunity to understand the larger story and cultural context of the time.
It is so worth it to know. We discover an ancient past, a different age – a time when the undeniably great Lord Krishna was present on Earth. A time still marked by war and conflict but also by something higher - an awareness of yoga and its power to reveal to the atma a higher existential environment. We learn that on the battlefield when a warrior trained in yoga is dying he seeks to ‘go into Yoga’, making his psychic transition of the physical form without panic. Through yogic restraint, he instead transitions consciously, with detachment. We benefit from reading of the conversations and relationships between the divided Bharatas.
Even more profoundly we are given a glimpse inside the special relationship certain characters share with Lord Krishna as he counsels and guides them through their challenges.
Although there are many differences between this commentary of Gita and others, the last one I mention here is this: the insight of the writer himself. The commentaries are stunningly informative and engaging. Anyone hungry for understanding of the Bhagavad Gita will likely find what they are looking for in these pages. Unbiased, inspiring and simply a joy to behold, Bhagavad Gita Explained is a gift to humanity.