Bhagavad Gita: Talks Between the Soul and God

by Ranchor Prime, Charles Newington (Illustrator)

An ancient conversation for a modern audience - anyone who has ever asked 'what is the purpose of life? or 'who am I?' will find something in this book. The Bhagavad Gita has been around a long time, but remains little known outside India. This edition sets out to change that. The ancient Gita is a world text dealing with the mysteries of life. At its heart is a conversation between the soul and God. Ranchor Prime's version adopts a non-sectarian approach, making the Gita relevant to those of all religions or none, and emphasising the link between religion and self-development. It is distinguished by its easy accessibility. His section-by-section commentary opens the text to the spiritual seeker. He never loses sight of the audience for his book, and that he wants his readers to understand the Gita in a personal way.

Genres: Spirituality, Self Help, Nonfiction, Philosophy

256 pages, Paperback

First published March 31, 2010

Reviews

[Yashaswi Upadhyay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so happy to find a version of the Gita that keeps the poetic nature of Krishna’s words. Simple and easy to read 🙏🏽

[Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great straightforward translation for anyone looking to explore the Gita. Designed for someone new to eastern spirituality and is interested in learning concepts and less worried about the original Sanskrit words in which the text was originally written in. It is even great for those who have read Prabhupada's "Bhagavad Gita as it is" or other translation, and would benefit from a new translation from a devotee.

Learning the story of the Bhagavad Gita is without a doubt one of the greatest positive influences in my life in the past decade. It has allowed me to value my life more. It has provided great insight on my actions, and how to reduce brain fog and distraction which I have deeply struggled with. Additionally, I have found a lot of parallels between concepts of the Gita and concepts presented in the Bible. This text supports me in understanding the Bible, and building a relationship with God. With all this said...yes, I would recommend this book.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bhagavad Gita is a timeless spiritual guide, presenting a profound dialogue between the soul (Arjuna) and the divine (Krishna). Set on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, Arjuna, a warrior facing an intense moral dilemma, turns to Krishna for guidance. Through their conversation, the Gita explores life’s deepest questions: duty, purpose, surrender, and self-realization.

Reading it felt like stepping into that sacred conversation myself. The wisdom was so vast that I couldn’t take it all in at once. Each verse seemed to whisper a deeper truth, urging me to pause, reflect, and re-read.

It is not just a story about a battlefield, it’s a journey inward, uncovering layers of meaning that grow richer with each revisit. The Gita offers new insights every time, making it a guide for life and a book to return to, not just to understand, but to evolve with. Highly recommend❣️

[Nina · Rating 5 out of 5]

super uitgave!! deze versie is echt heel toegankelijk <3 ga vaak herlezen

[Cherie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great version of the Gita. I had tried to read the Gita multiple times, but this very approachable version has great commentary. It helped that I read it in a group of other bhakti yogis with a former monk who basically quotes from the Gita off the top of his head. But such a great version, I love the commentary, and Prime apparently wrote this translation to be able to better explain the Gita to his children. SO GOOD!

[Keshav Bhatt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Came back to re-read this and got a lot from it. Love the simplicity of translation & the way the poetry of the Sanskrit has been retained. Noticed some errors/ISKCON heavy stuff in points but much less so than other versions. I wanted a reading that was to the point & not promoting a particular brand or movement. Would highly highly recommend & will come back to this often.

[Reema · Rating 4 out of 5]

An easy to follow translation of the Bhagavad Gita. Many teachings to understand, definitely will have to re-read. Overall my main takeaway message was about the importance of detachment from the material world that we live in. To seek stillness within. A lifelong journey it seems.

[Devon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ranchor Prime provides an excellent introductory look for beginners. I highly recommend for anyone reading the Bhagavad Gita for the first time!

[David Moorad · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read many versions of the Bhagavad Gita over the past few years and I think this is an excellent version! I am so grateful for the Gita and the influence it has had on my life. I was a victim of religiosity as a young man and the Gita allowed me to look at life with a different view which actually compliments other religious traditions. If you have had a similar challenge I highly recommend this interpretation.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bhakti Center 16-week workshop virtually

[Eileen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely but/and very out there

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A nice translation of the Gita by Ranchor Prime. The verses are thoughtfully grouped in sections that highlight what Ranchor wants to focus on, which is really nice to read.

[Lauraa · Rating 5 out of 5]

5🌟

[Nicoletta Mannarino · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is tough to rate bc reading it was easily a 1/5 but the actual content and discussions I had in YTT made it a 5 so happy medium I will give it a 3

[Laura Belmonte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely beautiful

[Maude · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book sooths my soul and makes me feel at peace. I love it!