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Journey into the Bhagavad-gita: A Guide to Exploring Timeless Principles of Transcendental Knowledge and Integrating Them Into Your Life
Discover the transformative power of ancient wisdom. This compelling guide is not just for yoga teachers, but for anyone seeking to explore spirituality beyond conventional boundaries. Whether you're healing from religious trauma, curious about spiritual leadership, or simply eager to find peace and freedom, this book offers a clear path forward. Find out how the timeless teachings of the Bhagavad-gita can revolutionize your approach to personal growth and social activism. This is not just a book; it’s a gateway to a life of enriched understanding and enhanced purpose.
477 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2024
19 people are currently reading
18 people want to read
About the author
Hari-kirtana Das
2 books7 followersHari-kirtana das, author of ‘In Search of the Highest Truth: Adventures in Yoga Philosophy’, has a talent for making complex ideas easy to understand. He’s an E-RYT Yoga Teacher and an entrepreneur whose lived in devotional yoga ashrams, worked for Fortune 500 companies, and brings a wide range of spiritual knowledge and life experience to his classes, workshops, and presentations. His mission is to offer knowledge, tools, and resources to help people live deeper, richer, and more spiritual lives.
Hari is on the faculty of numerous Yoga Teacher Training programs as well as the leader of his own Bhagavata-sevaya School of Yoga. He’s also a sought-after public speaker whose passion for critical thinking and meaningful dialog, along with his keen sense of humor, inspires people to experience the relevance of yoga’s ancient wisdom to life the modern world. He lives with his wife, Elizabeth, in Washington, D.C.
Hari is on the faculty of numerous Yoga Teacher Training programs as well as the leader of his own Bhagavata-sevaya School of Yoga. He’s also a sought-after public speaker whose passion for critical thinking and meaningful dialog, along with his keen sense of humor, inspires people to experience the relevance of yoga’s ancient wisdom to life the modern world. He lives with his wife, Elizabeth, in Washington, D.C.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
May 23, 2024
If you want to get excited about The Bhagavad Gita or re-ignite your relationship with the Gita, this book is for you! I love the combination of how personal this book is- I really got to know the author in completely new ways through his storytelling- often humorous, and how he sees his life experiences through the lens of the Gita AND how well he shares the breadth of teachings from the Gita- in a clear, unbelievably thorough, contemporary, and relevant way! I have been studying the Gita in various contexts for over 10 years. This is the only book on the Gita where I was constantly having “aha” moments because I could really understand, connect with, and follow his way of sharing the Gita’s significance. Reading Hari’s Gita book left me feeling happy, confident, almost elated, definitely excited with the newfound “I get it!” moments throughout the whole book! Each Part of the book is so unique in and of itself. I really appreciated the “things to look for” sections before each Gita Chapter. The chapter summaries provide even more elaboration and context. In fact, these summaries would be a great launching pad for group discussions, combined with the “exercise” portion of the book. This is a book you can return to over and over again and would be perfect for a study group and I would love to start one up with friends. Hari very generously demystifies the breadth of themes, teachings, meaning from Gita. It feels like no stone has been unturned. The book is philosophically grounded and clearly the author has compiled his decades of study into this one book. If you want a philosophically complete understanding of the Gita, without having to do guess work on meaning, this is the book that will bring fortune and blessings into your life! And the fun part is when you begin to see how the teachings transform the way in which you see yourself and the world.
June 26, 2024
Walk the Gītā with a Trail Master
Whatever brought you to this point and place, where you are considering this book:
This book’s presentation of the Gītā and its wisdom is neither one of stuffy academics nor esoteric philosophy, but rather one that reads and feels more like a companion trail guide, with Hari-Kirtana Das (Hari) as your Trail Master.
It reproduces and includes the full Gītā text, but it wraps preparatory and explanatory material around the Gītā, with the Gītā itself (Part Two) positioned appropriately in the center of the book.
In the “voice” of a well-traveled guide, all the introductory material prepares you for the Gītā itself, as it narrates a preview of the journey to come. The book essentially uses a “zero-entry” approach, minimizing the number of stairs one must climb to reach comprehension. It seems that Hari’s intention does not presuppose either prior knowledge of the Gītā or of yoga philosophy. It does not levy the burden and prerequisite of prior study or acquaintance. The language is attentively exact and clear.
He “fronts” the actual Gītā, with Part One: Challenges and Concepts, a trail map of highlights and essential elements of yoga philosophy and Gītā wisdom. Though it may at first seem academically imposing, the actual exposition and narrative are presented matter-of-factly. Its tone reveals Hari’s almost gloved-hand concern that readers be able to comprehend the story and wisdom that is the Gītā, and it is with this sense of “caution” that he seemingly offers us all these introductory and supportive “primers,” which could almost standalone as separate works. He seems personally motivated and invested in readers having a good experience, not with his book per se, but with the Gītā itself.
In Part Two: Bhagavad-gita-The Song of the Blessed Lord, he introduces each chapter of the Gītā with a Prelude: here’s what the prior chapter said, here are some things to look for in this next chapter, here are some things to help you understand what you’re about to read, here’s what the Gītā’s going to say. Furthermore, and very interestingly for select verses, he further enables comprehension by inserting annotations, offset but in-line with the English translations of the verses. These clarifying annotations can prove cardinal to understanding the verse. Unlike other books on the Gītā, where a verse (or group of verses) dovetails with an ensuing purport, Hari reserves such commentary for a separate section of Chapter Summaries (here’s what happened). In each summary, he groups the verses by shared idea and provides a “sub-summary” for each such verse group. By these chapter summaries, Hari seemingly acts like a travel guide who is always “looking back” and checking to see whether you are still there with him, trying very diligently to assure that he hasn’t lost you along the way.
Finally, for those willing to walk the trail a bit further, Hari then offers you Part Three: Integrating the Bhagavad-gītā into Your Life. Complete with Hari’s own experiences and realizations, this section, via prompts and meditations, invites readers to now go beyond the material-world mundane, and to journey inward and consider the essential daily relevance of the Gītā.
Hari’s new book is a comprehensive unpacking of the Gītā’s wisdom, done for the service and benefit of the reader. Its structure makes it work. Moreover, his devotional love for the Gītā and its wisdom is prominently displayed and corroborated by this immense effort.
Whatever brought you to this point and place, where you are considering this book:
This book’s presentation of the Gītā and its wisdom is neither one of stuffy academics nor esoteric philosophy, but rather one that reads and feels more like a companion trail guide, with Hari-Kirtana Das (Hari) as your Trail Master.
It reproduces and includes the full Gītā text, but it wraps preparatory and explanatory material around the Gītā, with the Gītā itself (Part Two) positioned appropriately in the center of the book.
In the “voice” of a well-traveled guide, all the introductory material prepares you for the Gītā itself, as it narrates a preview of the journey to come. The book essentially uses a “zero-entry” approach, minimizing the number of stairs one must climb to reach comprehension. It seems that Hari’s intention does not presuppose either prior knowledge of the Gītā or of yoga philosophy. It does not levy the burden and prerequisite of prior study or acquaintance. The language is attentively exact and clear.
He “fronts” the actual Gītā, with Part One: Challenges and Concepts, a trail map of highlights and essential elements of yoga philosophy and Gītā wisdom. Though it may at first seem academically imposing, the actual exposition and narrative are presented matter-of-factly. Its tone reveals Hari’s almost gloved-hand concern that readers be able to comprehend the story and wisdom that is the Gītā, and it is with this sense of “caution” that he seemingly offers us all these introductory and supportive “primers,” which could almost standalone as separate works. He seems personally motivated and invested in readers having a good experience, not with his book per se, but with the Gītā itself.
In Part Two: Bhagavad-gita-The Song of the Blessed Lord, he introduces each chapter of the Gītā with a Prelude: here’s what the prior chapter said, here are some things to look for in this next chapter, here are some things to help you understand what you’re about to read, here’s what the Gītā’s going to say. Furthermore, and very interestingly for select verses, he further enables comprehension by inserting annotations, offset but in-line with the English translations of the verses. These clarifying annotations can prove cardinal to understanding the verse. Unlike other books on the Gītā, where a verse (or group of verses) dovetails with an ensuing purport, Hari reserves such commentary for a separate section of Chapter Summaries (here’s what happened). In each summary, he groups the verses by shared idea and provides a “sub-summary” for each such verse group. By these chapter summaries, Hari seemingly acts like a travel guide who is always “looking back” and checking to see whether you are still there with him, trying very diligently to assure that he hasn’t lost you along the way.
Finally, for those willing to walk the trail a bit further, Hari then offers you Part Three: Integrating the Bhagavad-gītā into Your Life. Complete with Hari’s own experiences and realizations, this section, via prompts and meditations, invites readers to now go beyond the material-world mundane, and to journey inward and consider the essential daily relevance of the Gītā.
Hari’s new book is a comprehensive unpacking of the Gītā’s wisdom, done for the service and benefit of the reader. Its structure makes it work. Moreover, his devotional love for the Gītā and its wisdom is prominently displayed and corroborated by this immense effort.
September 14, 2024
I came across this book via a podcast, i believe it was J Brown`s Yoga talks. I was captivated by Harij’s humble but incisive explanations of his own journey, should we say, into the universe of the Gita. I connected deeply with him when he said, at first the Gita did not mean much to him, just like thousands of us.
What do we have in connection with a kingdom, millennia’s ago, and its political machinations. No, Harij, rehashes the Gita with a modern outlook. He stamps Arjuna`s plight on all of us, superimposing different Arjunas, different challenges different Kuruk shetras designed for all of us and by us. His having been a devotee of Iskcon and having forged his own way forward 'in Krishna', at the same time, and his continued reverence to Iskcon, without being overtly critical BUT not being shy of sharing his views, further pricked my attention and interest in his story. He seems to have struggled before entering into this Gita universe over years, over multiple travails, suffering pains. and enjoying many moments of bliss.
I felt he has lived through the Gita, and has succeeded in breathing the Gita in his life. I was amazed by the way he structured the book which showed he had ‘experienced’ the teachings. One of the challenges I have always had with other Gita`s versions i.e. Shankaraharya to Aurobindo to Gandhi to Radhakrishan has been this: the prereading/prepping from the author was lacking. No one trains you on inducting your mind prior to jumping into the Gita. All are in a hurry to rush into the fire like moths. The result is we rarely come out of the Gita in bliss, but mainly give up after the brief honeymoon. demotivated and tired.
His part I helps us avoid the pitfalls: it prepares us to enter the door of this dharma ksetre. What is its theme? What is its metaphysics? What is its structure? What is this grand personality we call Krishna? What yoga are we talking about in the book? The yoga of Krishna, is it practice or state of being? And most importantly how does one leave one`s preconceived notions outside the door before entering this Gita universe. The tips for contemplative reading do exactly that. How critical and important is part 1 to the whole narrative ! If one reads it with attention, one can be guaranteed to have a good lift off later. Of course a good dose of devotion or let’s say faith in the philosophy too will also help.
One more humble point: Harij seems to bring practical western scholarship to the Gita. I have found his translation simple and suffused with great clarity. I started to underline verses that reflected the gist of each chapter. His summaries of each chapter, before the Sanskrit, and English translations, are very valuable. Read carefully, one understands the gist of each chapter, 1-18.
Lastly, I am convinced the Gita was written by Rishis in a heightened state of samadhi. Hari Kirtana Das`s version and proposed structure of the Gita makes its divine origins palpable. May you find it useful and may all be at peace !
OM OM JAI GURU MAHARAJ ~
What do we have in connection with a kingdom, millennia’s ago, and its political machinations. No, Harij, rehashes the Gita with a modern outlook. He stamps Arjuna`s plight on all of us, superimposing different Arjunas, different challenges different Kuruk shetras designed for all of us and by us. His having been a devotee of Iskcon and having forged his own way forward 'in Krishna', at the same time, and his continued reverence to Iskcon, without being overtly critical BUT not being shy of sharing his views, further pricked my attention and interest in his story. He seems to have struggled before entering into this Gita universe over years, over multiple travails, suffering pains. and enjoying many moments of bliss.
I felt he has lived through the Gita, and has succeeded in breathing the Gita in his life. I was amazed by the way he structured the book which showed he had ‘experienced’ the teachings. One of the challenges I have always had with other Gita`s versions i.e. Shankaraharya to Aurobindo to Gandhi to Radhakrishan has been this: the prereading/prepping from the author was lacking. No one trains you on inducting your mind prior to jumping into the Gita. All are in a hurry to rush into the fire like moths. The result is we rarely come out of the Gita in bliss, but mainly give up after the brief honeymoon. demotivated and tired.
His part I helps us avoid the pitfalls: it prepares us to enter the door of this dharma ksetre. What is its theme? What is its metaphysics? What is its structure? What is this grand personality we call Krishna? What yoga are we talking about in the book? The yoga of Krishna, is it practice or state of being? And most importantly how does one leave one`s preconceived notions outside the door before entering this Gita universe. The tips for contemplative reading do exactly that. How critical and important is part 1 to the whole narrative ! If one reads it with attention, one can be guaranteed to have a good lift off later. Of course a good dose of devotion or let’s say faith in the philosophy too will also help.
One more humble point: Harij seems to bring practical western scholarship to the Gita. I have found his translation simple and suffused with great clarity. I started to underline verses that reflected the gist of each chapter. His summaries of each chapter, before the Sanskrit, and English translations, are very valuable. Read carefully, one understands the gist of each chapter, 1-18.
Lastly, I am convinced the Gita was written by Rishis in a heightened state of samadhi. Hari Kirtana Das`s version and proposed structure of the Gita makes its divine origins palpable. May you find it useful and may all be at peace !
OM OM JAI GURU MAHARAJ ~
September 18, 2024
As someone who has studied the Bhagavad Gita for years, I thought I had a solid grasp of its teachings. The Gita has always been a source of strength, guidance, and spiritual clarity for me. But when I picked up "Journey into the Bhagavad-gita", I was surprised to find myself experiencing these timeless teachings in a whole new way.
At first, I was skeptical. After all, how much more could I glean from a text I’d read and revisited so many times? But this book felt like a fresh breeze, bringing new life to verses I had memorized long ago. The author’s ability to make the Gita’s wisdom not only accessible but deeply personal is where the magic lies. This isn't just a commentary or a scholarly interpretation—it’s a heartfelt guide that taps into the essence of what the Gita has to offer to our everyday lives.
I was particularly moved by the sections that addressed healing from religious trauma. It’s a subject that’s not often discussed in traditional Gita studies, yet this book weaves those delicate topics into the teachings with such grace. I found myself reflecting on how my own spiritual journey, though long, had at times felt disconnected or boxed in by rigid expectations. The way the author invites readers to explore spirituality beyond conventional boundaries opened up a new dimension for me—a reminder that spiritual growth is continuous and ever-evolving.
What really hit home for me was how the book framed the Gita’s teachings on leadership and activism. Even as someone familiar with Krishna’s counsel on selfless action and detachment, the author’s approach gave me new insight into what it means to lead with both compassion and clarity. It wasn’t just about personal enlightenment anymore; it became about how I could apply these teachings in a way that serves others, both in my personal life and in my work. The Gita’s message about balancing inner peace with outer engagement came alive for me in a whole new way.
The simplicity and warmth with which complex ideas are conveyed make this book feel like a conversation with an old friend who knows exactly what you need to hear. It helped me rediscover the Gita’s relevance not just in my spiritual life but also in my social activism. I found myself applying these principles with more confidence and heart, whether I was leading a team or navigating difficult conversations with loved ones.
Even as a seasoned Gita reader, I came away from this book with new tools for growth. It reminded me that no matter how many times we revisit the Gita, there’s always more to learn. We’re constantly evolving, and so is our understanding of these teachings.
If you’re a longtime student of the Gita, this book will refresh and reignite your relationship with it. And if you’re new to the text, it offers an incredibly accessible and meaningful entry point. This book is not just a guide to understanding the Bhagavad Gita—it’s a transformative experience that will deepen your connection to its wisdom, no matter where you are on your spiritual path.
At first, I was skeptical. After all, how much more could I glean from a text I’d read and revisited so many times? But this book felt like a fresh breeze, bringing new life to verses I had memorized long ago. The author’s ability to make the Gita’s wisdom not only accessible but deeply personal is where the magic lies. This isn't just a commentary or a scholarly interpretation—it’s a heartfelt guide that taps into the essence of what the Gita has to offer to our everyday lives.
I was particularly moved by the sections that addressed healing from religious trauma. It’s a subject that’s not often discussed in traditional Gita studies, yet this book weaves those delicate topics into the teachings with such grace. I found myself reflecting on how my own spiritual journey, though long, had at times felt disconnected or boxed in by rigid expectations. The way the author invites readers to explore spirituality beyond conventional boundaries opened up a new dimension for me—a reminder that spiritual growth is continuous and ever-evolving.
What really hit home for me was how the book framed the Gita’s teachings on leadership and activism. Even as someone familiar with Krishna’s counsel on selfless action and detachment, the author’s approach gave me new insight into what it means to lead with both compassion and clarity. It wasn’t just about personal enlightenment anymore; it became about how I could apply these teachings in a way that serves others, both in my personal life and in my work. The Gita’s message about balancing inner peace with outer engagement came alive for me in a whole new way.
The simplicity and warmth with which complex ideas are conveyed make this book feel like a conversation with an old friend who knows exactly what you need to hear. It helped me rediscover the Gita’s relevance not just in my spiritual life but also in my social activism. I found myself applying these principles with more confidence and heart, whether I was leading a team or navigating difficult conversations with loved ones.
Even as a seasoned Gita reader, I came away from this book with new tools for growth. It reminded me that no matter how many times we revisit the Gita, there’s always more to learn. We’re constantly evolving, and so is our understanding of these teachings.
If you’re a longtime student of the Gita, this book will refresh and reignite your relationship with it. And if you’re new to the text, it offers an incredibly accessible and meaningful entry point. This book is not just a guide to understanding the Bhagavad Gita—it’s a transformative experience that will deepen your connection to its wisdom, no matter where you are on your spiritual path.
June 27, 2024
Journey into the Bhagavad Gita by Hari-kirtana das is an essential read for anyone interested in delving into this classic text of yoga philosophy. It's also the perfect antidote for those who have tried to read the Gita but found it too esoteric to grasp. Using clear and digestible language, the author guides us through the book’s underlying philosophical concepts, provides a solid context for the Gita’s plot, and – best of all – demonstrates how its ancient teachings can add tremendous value to our lives today.
The book is divided into three distinct sections. The first addresses the challenges that the Gita poses to contemporary readers. This is especially helpful for those coming from a Western perspective, as many of the Gita’s underlying concepts differ greatly from the philosophical and theological ideas we might be accustomed to. Concepts like karma are more complex and nuanced than their popular culture depictions or those in your average yoga class. I particularly appreciated the “tips for contemplative reading” chapter, which encouraged me to slow down and reflect rather than just read for information.
The second section presents the Gita itself, featuring both the original Sanskrit and the author’s contemporary American English translation. Before each chapter, there’s a short section that recaps the current action and highlights concepts discussed in the first section. This is followed by chapter summaries, providing an overall review. Unlike many other editions of the Gita, there are no distracting footnotes or verse-by-verse commentary – a layout/ format that allowed me to fully immerse myself in the action and themes of the story.
The third section offers stories and exercises through which readers can explore the potentially life-changing impact of the Gita’s teachings. I particularly enjoyed this part of the book. The author’s humorous recounting of the realizations that the Gita offered him at various points in his life was engaging, and the prompts for journaling, discussion, and personal experiments were practical and thought-provoking. I can definitely see myself revisiting them in the future.
Journey into the Bhagavad Gita provided me with a solid understanding of the fundamental concepts of yoga philosophy and a lot of great ideas for how to relate its teachings to my own life. The book is relatable, practical, and entertaining, and I highly recommend it.
July 30, 2024
The Cornerstone: Hari-Kirtana Das's Iteration of the Bhagavad Gita
Hari-Kirtana Das's rendition of the Bhagavad Gita stands out for its ability to simplify the profound teachings and complex themes of this timeless scripture. His teaching style and use of plain language make intricate topics such as liberation, dharma, and Vedic tradition accessible to a wider audience.
Part One of the book is an absolute treat for someone who has read The Gita before and is now seeking greater clarity. Hari-Kirtana Das meticulously dissects the text, providing insights and interpretations that illuminate its deeper meanings. For new readers, he offers a thorough introduction that explains how to approach this transformative poem to derive the most benefit from the first reading. His guidance ensures that readers can fully grasp the life-changing wisdom contained within the Bhagavad Gita.
Among the many valuable components of this iteration, "The Yoga Ladder" and "The Metaphysics of the Bhagavad-Gita" are particularly noteworthy. These sections encapsulate the essence of the teachings, presenting them in a way that is both enlightening and practical.
Additionally, Hari-Kirtana Das offers an excellent explanation of the three qualities of material nature—sattva (goodness), rajas (passion), and tamas (ignorance). His clear and insightful descriptions help readers understand how these qualities influence human behavior and consciousness. By elucidating these concepts, he empowers readers to recognize and transcend these material influences, fostering a deeper spiritual awareness.
Overall, Hari-Kirtana Das's Bhagavad Gita is an essential read for anyone looking to delve into the spiritual and philosophical depths of this sacred text. Whether you are a seasoned reader or new to the Gita, this edition offers a fresh perspective that enhances understanding and appreciation.
Hari-Kirtana Das's rendition of the Bhagavad Gita stands out for its ability to simplify the profound teachings and complex themes of this timeless scripture. His teaching style and use of plain language make intricate topics such as liberation, dharma, and Vedic tradition accessible to a wider audience.
Part One of the book is an absolute treat for someone who has read The Gita before and is now seeking greater clarity. Hari-Kirtana Das meticulously dissects the text, providing insights and interpretations that illuminate its deeper meanings. For new readers, he offers a thorough introduction that explains how to approach this transformative poem to derive the most benefit from the first reading. His guidance ensures that readers can fully grasp the life-changing wisdom contained within the Bhagavad Gita.
Among the many valuable components of this iteration, "The Yoga Ladder" and "The Metaphysics of the Bhagavad-Gita" are particularly noteworthy. These sections encapsulate the essence of the teachings, presenting them in a way that is both enlightening and practical.
Additionally, Hari-Kirtana Das offers an excellent explanation of the three qualities of material nature—sattva (goodness), rajas (passion), and tamas (ignorance). His clear and insightful descriptions help readers understand how these qualities influence human behavior and consciousness. By elucidating these concepts, he empowers readers to recognize and transcend these material influences, fostering a deeper spiritual awareness.
Overall, Hari-Kirtana Das's Bhagavad Gita is an essential read for anyone looking to delve into the spiritual and philosophical depths of this sacred text. Whether you are a seasoned reader or new to the Gita, this edition offers a fresh perspective that enhances understanding and appreciation.
July 22, 2024
"Journey into the Bhagavad Gita" by Hari-kirtana das is a truly transformative book that offers the best translation and unparalleled storytelling of this ancient yoga wisdom text. This book masterfully bridges the gap between timeless wisdom and contemporary relevance, making the profound teachings of the Bhagavad Gita accessible to readers of all backgrounds.
The translation is meticulously crafted, preserving the essence and subtleties of the original verses while presenting them in a clear and engaging manner. Hari-kirtana das’ ability to convey complex concepts in a straightforward and relatable way sets this translation apart from others.
I love how the book is divided in three parts: Part 1 gives an overview of philosophical concepts explained in a very down to earth way, making these teachings easily understandable. The verses of the Bhagavad Gita are presented in Part 2, and here, every chapter starts with a prelude that helps you understand what you are about to read, gives some pointers as to which verses one should pay attention to, and then the translation of the verses starts. And finally, Part 3 gives us the practical application of the Bhagavad Gita into our lives.
"Journey into the Bhagavad Gita" is a beautifully written book and a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Bhagavad Gita. It is, in my opinion, the best translation available, enriched by its amazing storytelling and guidance for practice. Whether you are a yoga teacher, a yoga student, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone interested in exploring the wisdom of the East, this book will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on your heart and mind.
The translation is meticulously crafted, preserving the essence and subtleties of the original verses while presenting them in a clear and engaging manner. Hari-kirtana das’ ability to convey complex concepts in a straightforward and relatable way sets this translation apart from others.
I love how the book is divided in three parts: Part 1 gives an overview of philosophical concepts explained in a very down to earth way, making these teachings easily understandable. The verses of the Bhagavad Gita are presented in Part 2, and here, every chapter starts with a prelude that helps you understand what you are about to read, gives some pointers as to which verses one should pay attention to, and then the translation of the verses starts. And finally, Part 3 gives us the practical application of the Bhagavad Gita into our lives.
"Journey into the Bhagavad Gita" is a beautifully written book and a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Bhagavad Gita. It is, in my opinion, the best translation available, enriched by its amazing storytelling and guidance for practice. Whether you are a yoga teacher, a yoga student, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone interested in exploring the wisdom of the East, this book will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on your heart and mind.
May 31, 2024
This book is a must read for serious yoga students, yoga teachers, anyone interested in eastern philosophy and, especially, for those who have tried to read the Bhagavad Gita but couldn’t understand it or why it’s supposed to be so important. It should be a required text for yoga teacher training programs. This book is unique in several ways. It makes the Bhagavad Gita understandable for the western reader and provides guidance in implementing it into modern life. It’s the first book I’ve found that provides background on the story. Hari explains the relationships between the warring sides and gives history for how they got to the battlefield where the Gita begins. He provides a description of the four disciplines of yoga that are part of the Gita (which it assumes you already know something about but most of us don’t). There is a list of all the names Krsna and Arjuna call each other so the reader can actually understand who is talking throughout the Gita. My favorite part is the way the Gita chapters are presented. First, there is a list of important things to look for before each chapter. Then the chapter is presented sutra by sutra in Sankrit and in English. Finally, there is a short summary of all the chapters. Basically, he tells you what you are going to read, you read it, then he tells you what you read. The final section is examples of how the Gita can be applied in everyday life. There are ideas for discussion, for journaling and practice. This is an amazing work.
July 5, 2024
"Journey Into the Bhagavad Gita" is a captivating exploration of India’s revered scripture. The author has a unique approach to presenting the teachings of the Gita and he is an engaging storyteller. He distills complex concepts into relatable anecdotes and makes this book accessible to readers of all backgrounds.
The exploration of selfless action and the different paths of yoga for spiritual growth provided me with a fresh perspective to reflect on, and apply to my life. The depiction of Arjuna's inner turmoil on the battlefield of Kurukshetra is also a highlight of the book. The author's portrayal of Arjuna's internal conflict and Lord Krishna's divine guidance left a lasting impression on me. The dialogues between the two characters showcase their relationship and convey timeless, transcendental wisdom.
Compared to other editions of the Gita, "Journey Into the Bhagavad Gita" goes beyond mere philosophical discussions or academic commentaries, combining scholarship with storytelling.
I highly recommend the book to anyone seeking spiritual growth, philosophical insights, or a deeper understanding of yoga philosophy. It is a practical guide for navigating life's challenges with clarity and compassion. Regardless of your familiarity with the Gita, this book will support you on your spiritual journey and inspire you to incorporate its wisdom into your daily life.
The exploration of selfless action and the different paths of yoga for spiritual growth provided me with a fresh perspective to reflect on, and apply to my life. The depiction of Arjuna's inner turmoil on the battlefield of Kurukshetra is also a highlight of the book. The author's portrayal of Arjuna's internal conflict and Lord Krishna's divine guidance left a lasting impression on me. The dialogues between the two characters showcase their relationship and convey timeless, transcendental wisdom.
Compared to other editions of the Gita, "Journey Into the Bhagavad Gita" goes beyond mere philosophical discussions or academic commentaries, combining scholarship with storytelling.
I highly recommend the book to anyone seeking spiritual growth, philosophical insights, or a deeper understanding of yoga philosophy. It is a practical guide for navigating life's challenges with clarity and compassion. Regardless of your familiarity with the Gita, this book will support you on your spiritual journey and inspire you to incorporate its wisdom into your daily life.
July 14, 2024
I began yoga teacher training in 2017 and was surprised my how little time was spent discussing the Gita. I decided to take weekly classes to get an in-depth perspective of this ancient wisdom manual.
This pace took me years to complete the text and left me with little to no understanding of the bigger picture and zero direction in how to incorporate application of the teachings in to my life. Bite size pieces are delicious indeed!! But I wanted to digest the spiritual wisdom in wholeness.
The chapter on “The Overarching Theme of the Bhagavad Gita” was a great place to start. Understanding the essential nature of cosmic order, and the need to bring OURSELVES into harmony with that order, (so that we can live peacefully in our societies and the world at large) is transformational.
The tips for contemplative reading section seems to be the missing ingredient for me to really be able to absorb the knowledge and wisdom offered in the Gita.
Laying out the verses in modern translation and looking at whole chapters was also very valuable to me. I highly recommend this approach to studying the beautiful wisdom available to all seekers of Truth found in the Bhagavad Gita.
As far as I am concerned, this is the perfect book to complement Yoga Teacher Training as an essential part of the Yoga journey.
This pace took me years to complete the text and left me with little to no understanding of the bigger picture and zero direction in how to incorporate application of the teachings in to my life. Bite size pieces are delicious indeed!! But I wanted to digest the spiritual wisdom in wholeness.
The chapter on “The Overarching Theme of the Bhagavad Gita” was a great place to start. Understanding the essential nature of cosmic order, and the need to bring OURSELVES into harmony with that order, (so that we can live peacefully in our societies and the world at large) is transformational.
The tips for contemplative reading section seems to be the missing ingredient for me to really be able to absorb the knowledge and wisdom offered in the Gita.
Laying out the verses in modern translation and looking at whole chapters was also very valuable to me. I highly recommend this approach to studying the beautiful wisdom available to all seekers of Truth found in the Bhagavad Gita.
As far as I am concerned, this is the perfect book to complement Yoga Teacher Training as an essential part of the Yoga journey.
January 3, 2025
Readers, if you’re only planning to buy one translation of the Bhagavad Gita, then this is it! Hari-Kirtana Das, yoga teacher & mentor, relies on decades of experience to create an accessible guide to “developing a relationship” with this ancient Hindu spiritual text. If you’re like me, you gave up while reading the first chapter of the Gita because of the litany of names that are impossible to pronounce, let alone remember. But, as newly informed by Das, this task is superfluous to the meaning(s) of the Gita - just one of many pearls provided by our guide in addition to an explanation of the overarching theme of the Gita and pronunciation guide to reading the Sanskrit original in tandem with the English translation of each verse. I am thrilled to have barriers I felt about getting through the text dissolved through simple explanations of terms and complex concepts that a non-Yogi like me easily grasped. I just ordered two paperback copies of Journey into the Bhagavad Gita. . . One so I can mark it up and jot down thoughts in it, and the other one for my son.
July 28, 2024
Journey Into the Bhagavad-gita is a fantastic read that makes the Gita’s wisdom easy to understand and apply to everyday life. The wisdom of the Gita is timeless and profound, but I find myself often returning to the same question: How do I apply this in real life?? Hari does an amazing job of breaking down complex ideas, keeping the essence of the teachings while making them relevant today. I especially loved the section on karma yoga, where he shares practical tips for adding selfless action to our daily routines. It’s both inspiring and easy to follow.
This book is very user-friendly compared to other translations. While some editions can be pretty dense, Hari’s take is clear, engaging, and still deep. He nails his goal of making the Gita’s teachings accessible and practical. If you’re into spiritual growth or just curious about the Bhagavad-gita, this book is a must-read. I highly recommend it—it’s a great way to dive into the timeless wisdom of the Gita!
This book is very user-friendly compared to other translations. While some editions can be pretty dense, Hari’s take is clear, engaging, and still deep. He nails his goal of making the Gita’s teachings accessible and practical. If you’re into spiritual growth or just curious about the Bhagavad-gita, this book is a must-read. I highly recommend it—it’s a great way to dive into the timeless wisdom of the Gita!
May 26, 2024
I appreciate that Hari-kirtana das presents a whole 'toolbox' of sorts for students interested in incorporating the teachings of the Bhagavad-gita into their lives. As a student of yoga and yoga therapy, I am especially interested in thinking of ways to incorporate the teachings of the Gita into my own life, and to share and contemplate with others. I keep this book by my bedside, and read each evening. I have already incorporated the chapter on the yoga ladder into my yoga classes. This chapter has helped to refine my own understanding of the main paths of yoga, and gain an even stronger understanding of the beautiful path of bhakti yoga. The author writes in a way that makes me feel I am engaging in conversation with him. It's accessible, relatable, and encouraging. This is a book I will keep coming back to!
July 6, 2024
As someone who teaches yoga, and also teaches other yoga teachers, as well as someone who enjoys studying yoga philosophy myself, I'm always on the lookout for resources to make the ancient texts of yoga more accessible to a modern audience. I've noticed that a lot of aspiring yoga teachers have this idea that they should read the Bhagavad-Gita, but feel somehow intimidated by the whole project, or like they can't get a toehold into the text. Hari-kirtana's framing commentary, explanations, and translation do a great job of explaining both the controversial (especially the background of the Mahabharata) and the meaningful and timeless bits to the unfamiliar. For long-time students of yoga, Hari's systematization of the ladder of types of yoga in the Bhagavad-Gita also offers a new way to enter into the text! Highly recommend for anyone who's into bhakti yoga, or even curious about it.
July 28, 2024
A beautiful guide into the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita.
Hari-Kirtana Das has crafted a masterful and entertaining guide and translation of this ancient yoga text that makes it understandable and relevant to all who strive to give meaning to their lives.
The three parts of the book guide the reader smoothly through an overview of philosophical concepts of the Bhagavad Gita (Part 1), a translation of the verses, with emphasis on most important concepts (Part 2), and ideas for the practical application of the Bhagavad Gita into modern life (Part 3).
I particularly appreciated the author’s implication that the work is a spiritual guide for all humans, regardless of any religious affiliation.
I truly enjoyed this book and I would recommend it to anyone who strives for a fuller spiritual life.
Hari-Kirtana Das has crafted a masterful and entertaining guide and translation of this ancient yoga text that makes it understandable and relevant to all who strive to give meaning to their lives.
The three parts of the book guide the reader smoothly through an overview of philosophical concepts of the Bhagavad Gita (Part 1), a translation of the verses, with emphasis on most important concepts (Part 2), and ideas for the practical application of the Bhagavad Gita into modern life (Part 3).
I particularly appreciated the author’s implication that the work is a spiritual guide for all humans, regardless of any religious affiliation.
I truly enjoyed this book and I would recommend it to anyone who strives for a fuller spiritual life.
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November 22, 2024Hari-kirtana das’s Journey Into the Bhagavad-gita is a beautifully written guide that makes the timeless teachings of the Gita accessible and relevant to modern life. I find the author offers profound insights paired with practical applications that anyone can benefit from, whether you're a beginner or experienced in spiritual study.
What I love most is how Hari-kirtana breaks down complex concepts into simple, relatable ideas without losing their depth. His humor and clarity make the journey enjoyable, and his reflections inspire personal transformation.
This book isn’t just about understanding the Gita—it’s about living its principles in a meaningful way. It’s a must-read for anyone seeking guidance on self-discovery and spiritual growth. Highly recommend!
What I love most is how Hari-kirtana breaks down complex concepts into simple, relatable ideas without losing their depth. His humor and clarity make the journey enjoyable, and his reflections inspire personal transformation.
This book isn’t just about understanding the Gita—it’s about living its principles in a meaningful way. It’s a must-read for anyone seeking guidance on self-discovery and spiritual growth. Highly recommend!
June 23, 2024
Hari’s rendition of the Bhagavad-Gita allows modern day people to access the historical wisdom text which was written at a time when the worldview was vastly different than today’s. Following the translation, the book also provides practical exercises to apply the Gita’s philosophical approaches to everyday life thereby allowing the reader to fully experience the concepts contained within the Gita. This is an excellent and approachable translation for everyone including those who are on the edge of curiosity about yoga philosophy to those who want to dive in and become fully immersed in the historical wisdom text.
September 10, 2024
Most accessible version of the Bhagavad-gita by far! I have read three other versions of the Gita multiple times, and often dip into Jnaneshwar’s for inspiration. Hari-Kirtana's interpreted text provided new meaning. His deep knowledge of context and his own extensive experience helped a great deal. I love his personal stories (and the cover art is the best I have seen). This version cracked open the meaning of this arcane and important book and provided a rewarding reading experience that contributed to my spiritual development.
June 26, 2024
I would highly recommend this book for all spiritual seekers. I’ve read the Bhagavad Gita countless times, but Hari’s book provides a valuable perspective that can bridge the gap between this ancient sacred conversation and our complicated modern lives. What I love most are the discussion questions, which really help you to apply the wisdom of the Gita to our everyday lives. Hari’s insights are truly helpful, and this book can really deepen your understanding of the Bhagavad Gita. A must-read!
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July 2, 2025It was refreshing to read a translation and commentary written by an American (like myself),
who grew up in a similar time frame and uses contemporary language to describe timeless principles.
By applying the principles of contemplative reading, as described by the author in Part One, it is indeed possible to awaken from the dreams arising as the result of our culture and its misguided assumptions.
who grew up in a similar time frame and uses contemporary language to describe timeless principles.
By applying the principles of contemplative reading, as described by the author in Part One, it is indeed possible to awaken from the dreams arising as the result of our culture and its misguided assumptions.
May 31, 2024
I really enjoyed this rendition of the Bhagavad Gita. The information in part one of the book sheds light on concepts of the Gita, making it more understandable for people new to the text. The translation is thought-provoking and relevant for modern life.
December 4, 2024
Incredibly clear and thoughtful commentary on the Bhagavad Gita. I've read numerous translations/commentaries on this sacred text and this one is the most insightful and helpful. I really appreciate the ways to integrate the teachings into your life at the end of the book, too. Highly recommend.
January 5, 2025
As someone not already knowledgeable about the subject, I was shocked at how beautifully the philosophy unfolds. It is truly comprehensive but not at all dry or pedantic, a poetic page turner. I felt like I was being walked through a garden. I can't recommend it highly enough.
October 5, 2025
This isn’t a devotional manual or an academic commentary—it’s both. Hari writes with the precision of a scholar and the heart of a practitioner. For anyone who wants to live the Bhagavad-gita rather than just quote it, this book is the clearest, most grounded guide I’ve found.
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