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Bhagavad Gita As Viewed by Swami Vivekananda
A collection of the views of Swami Vivekananda on the Bhagavad Gita as collected from the nine volumes of the Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda, and compiled in this book.
The comments are classified according to the chapters and verses of the Gita. The verses of the Gita are given in original Devanagri script along with the English translation.
Swami Vivekananda s views on the Gita are scattered throughout. The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda published in nine volumes. The present book is a compilation of these views so that the reader is taken through some of the verses of the Gita along with the Swami s commentary, as it were.
The comments are classified according to the chapters and verses of the Gita. The verses of the Gita are given in original Devanagri script along with the English translation.
Swami Vivekananda s views on the Gita are scattered throughout. The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda published in nine volumes. The present book is a compilation of these views so that the reader is taken through some of the verses of the Gita along with the Swami s commentary, as it were.
160 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2009
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About the author
Vivekananda
1,648 books1,581 followers"Arise Awake and Stop not til the goal is reached"
Vivekananda left a body of philosophical works (see Vivekananda's complete works). His books (compiled from lectures given around the world) on the four Yogas (Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga and Jnana Yoga) are very influential and still seen as fundamental texts for anyone interested in the Hindu practice of Yoga. His letters are of great literary and spiritual value. He was also considered a very good singer and a poet.By the time of his death, He had composed many songs including his favorite Kali the Mother. He used humor for his teachings and was also an excellent cook. His language is very free flowing. His own Bengali writings stand testimony to the fact that he believed that words - spoken or written - should be for making things easier to understand rather than show off the speaker or writer's knowledge.
Swami Vivekananda [ স্বামী বিবেকানন্দ ] (1863 – 1902), born Narendranath Datta, was an Indian Hindu monk, philosopher, author, religious teacher, and the chief disciple of the Indian mystic Ramakrishna. He was a key figure in the introduction of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world and is credited with raising interfaith awareness, and bringing Hinduism to the status of a major world religion.
Born in Calcutta, Bengal Presidency, British India (present-day Kolkata, West Bengal, India)
Vivekananda left a body of philosophical works (see Vivekananda's complete works). His books (compiled from lectures given around the world) on the four Yogas (Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga and Jnana Yoga) are very influential and still seen as fundamental texts for anyone interested in the Hindu practice of Yoga. His letters are of great literary and spiritual value. He was also considered a very good singer and a poet.By the time of his death, He had composed many songs including his favorite Kali the Mother. He used humor for his teachings and was also an excellent cook. His language is very free flowing. His own Bengali writings stand testimony to the fact that he believed that words - spoken or written - should be for making things easier to understand rather than show off the speaker or writer's knowledge.
Swami Vivekananda [ স্বামী বিবেকানন্দ ] (1863 – 1902), born Narendranath Datta, was an Indian Hindu monk, philosopher, author, religious teacher, and the chief disciple of the Indian mystic Ramakrishna. He was a key figure in the introduction of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world and is credited with raising interfaith awareness, and bringing Hinduism to the status of a major world religion.
Born in Calcutta, Bengal Presidency, British India (present-day Kolkata, West Bengal, India)
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
January 4, 2024
You are infinite, deathless, birthless. Because you are infinite spirit, it does not befit you to be a slave...Arise! Awake! Stand up and fight!
Freedom is only possible to the being who is beyond all conditions, all laws, all bondages of cause and effect. In other words, the unchangeable alone can be free and therefore, immortal.
...the mind that succeeds is the mind that is concentrated.
If you want to do a great or good work, do not trouble to think what the result will be.
"Do all work but without attachment; work for work's sake, never for yourself."
"A man is said to be [illumined] if his will has become firm, if his mind is not disturbed by misery, if he does not desire any happiness, if he is free of all [attachment], of all fear, of all anger."
...the doctrine which stands out luminously in every page of the Gita is intense activity, but in the midst of it, eternal calmness.
"Nothing, my friend is lost in this world. Whatever one does, that remains as one's own..."
...all good comes from faith in equality, in the underlying sameness and oneness of things. This is the great Vedantic ideal.
Freedom is only possible to the being who is beyond all conditions, all laws, all bondages of cause and effect. In other words, the unchangeable alone can be free and therefore, immortal.
...the mind that succeeds is the mind that is concentrated.
If you want to do a great or good work, do not trouble to think what the result will be.
"Do all work but without attachment; work for work's sake, never for yourself."
"A man is said to be [illumined] if his will has become firm, if his mind is not disturbed by misery, if he does not desire any happiness, if he is free of all [attachment], of all fear, of all anger."
...the doctrine which stands out luminously in every page of the Gita is intense activity, but in the midst of it, eternal calmness.
"Nothing, my friend is lost in this world. Whatever one does, that remains as one's own..."
...all good comes from faith in equality, in the underlying sameness and oneness of things. This is the great Vedantic ideal.
March 6, 2017
I was always amazed with the popularity that Bhagvad Gita has, not only in India but in other countries as well. So i started to read the original version called 'Bhagvad Gita as it is by swami Prabhupad'. After i few chapters, I had to put it down as I found it to be very elaborative and complex which is good if you have good amount of free time! A few days after I was introduced to another version of this holy scripture written by Swami Vivekananda. Having great admirations for Vivekananda, I started this book and while I have my due criticisms, I really like the interpretations of Swami Vivekananda.
The book deals with a lot of topics and can be rightly called a commentary on Vedanta Philosophy. One of the major theme discussed is of 'nishkama karma' which means work without attachment - To work you has the right, but not to the fruits thereof. I believe the underlying message here is to not get distracted by the worries of the result while doing work. There are some uncertain factors that play their role on the result on which we have no control. Because off all such factors, more often than not, the result is uncertain. But if we attach ourselves to the work, we'll start worrying about the result which might in turn reduce the efficiency of the work. Hard-work is the certain factor in the outcome of the work. It is in our control. It's better to avoid any distractions. Having said this, I believe it's very hard to work without thinking about result. After all, It is the aim itself that compels us to push harder. Isn't it? I think, a more elaborate reading of Karma Yoga (Concentration in action) is required to understand such concepts in detail.
The book also delves into other topics such as Jyana yog, rebirth, ascetism etc. In the last few chapter, the divinity and grandeur of Krishna is elaborated. Being an atheist, I could not appreciate that part but I was curious whether there was some underlying philosophy behind those chapter or Vivekananda really had supreme faith in Krishna.
Overall a good read for introspection and philosophical thinking.
The book deals with a lot of topics and can be rightly called a commentary on Vedanta Philosophy. One of the major theme discussed is of 'nishkama karma' which means work without attachment - To work you has the right, but not to the fruits thereof. I believe the underlying message here is to not get distracted by the worries of the result while doing work. There are some uncertain factors that play their role on the result on which we have no control. Because off all such factors, more often than not, the result is uncertain. But if we attach ourselves to the work, we'll start worrying about the result which might in turn reduce the efficiency of the work. Hard-work is the certain factor in the outcome of the work. It is in our control. It's better to avoid any distractions. Having said this, I believe it's very hard to work without thinking about result. After all, It is the aim itself that compels us to push harder. Isn't it? I think, a more elaborate reading of Karma Yoga (Concentration in action) is required to understand such concepts in detail.
The book also delves into other topics such as Jyana yog, rebirth, ascetism etc. In the last few chapter, the divinity and grandeur of Krishna is elaborated. Being an atheist, I could not appreciate that part but I was curious whether there was some underlying philosophy behind those chapter or Vivekananda really had supreme faith in Krishna.
Overall a good read for introspection and philosophical thinking.
June 14, 2016
The Bhagavad Gita is, perhaps, the most widely known of all scriptures of Santana Dharma. Ever since it was imparted to Arjuna by Sri Krishna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, a long time ago, it has inspired millions of human beings to lead a virtuous life on their way to the realization of the Divine. Many are the great personalities who have commented on this great text, and interpreted it for the benefit of humanity. Today there is a plethora of such commentaries.
Barring a few, all these commentaries have been a systematic study of all the 700 verses composing the text. They have been written with the intention of establishing or supporting a particular ideology. The present book is an exception, and that too a very interesting one.
The book is based on the Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda. An ardent devotee of the Gita, Swamiji used to carry a copy of it with him during his peregrinations. He has referred to the Gita during many of his lectures, both in India and abroad. His comments are scattered throughout his collected works. Swamiji himself did not write any verse-by-verse commentary, but it is obvious that his three sets of lectures on Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga and Jnana Yoga owe their origin to the Gita.
The editor of the present book, Swami Madhurananda of the Advaita Ashrama, Mayavati, has undertaken the onerous task of culling out all references to the Gita in the complete works. He has, wherever possible, identified the particular verse most appropriate to any quotation. He has then arranged them in the order of the original text, chapter-wise. He has been able to find appropriate references to all the chapters, except the sixteenth. This has itself been a stupendous task, and testifies to the depth of knowledge of the editor about the Gita, and to his tenacity.
It is, obviously, not possible to find references to all the verses of the seventeen chapters covered here. The book is certainly not a commentary on the Gita, in the traditional sense. But, what is available is indeed a treasure house of wisdom. Swamiji was a living embodiment of the Gita. According to him, the Gita was ‘practical Vedanta’. He demonstrated this through his life.
Reading through the book is indeed a rewarding experience. One is in holy company, imbibing the words of one who is speaking from his heart. Readers should be grateful to the compiler and the publishers for thinking about this unique endeavour, and bringing about it successfully. Just as Swamiji himself used to carry a copy of the Gita with him always, one cannot do better than carry a copy of this book with one always.
Swami Vivekananda described the Gita as a ‘bouquet of beautiful flowers picked from the garden of the Upanishads’. One can similarly consider this book as a floral offering to Swamiji, a bouquet of beautiful flowers picked from the garden of his Complete Works.
NVC Swamy,
Bangalore
Vedanta Kesari
Barring a few, all these commentaries have been a systematic study of all the 700 verses composing the text. They have been written with the intention of establishing or supporting a particular ideology. The present book is an exception, and that too a very interesting one.
The book is based on the Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda. An ardent devotee of the Gita, Swamiji used to carry a copy of it with him during his peregrinations. He has referred to the Gita during many of his lectures, both in India and abroad. His comments are scattered throughout his collected works. Swamiji himself did not write any verse-by-verse commentary, but it is obvious that his three sets of lectures on Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga and Jnana Yoga owe their origin to the Gita.
The editor of the present book, Swami Madhurananda of the Advaita Ashrama, Mayavati, has undertaken the onerous task of culling out all references to the Gita in the complete works. He has, wherever possible, identified the particular verse most appropriate to any quotation. He has then arranged them in the order of the original text, chapter-wise. He has been able to find appropriate references to all the chapters, except the sixteenth. This has itself been a stupendous task, and testifies to the depth of knowledge of the editor about the Gita, and to his tenacity.
It is, obviously, not possible to find references to all the verses of the seventeen chapters covered here. The book is certainly not a commentary on the Gita, in the traditional sense. But, what is available is indeed a treasure house of wisdom. Swamiji was a living embodiment of the Gita. According to him, the Gita was ‘practical Vedanta’. He demonstrated this through his life.
Reading through the book is indeed a rewarding experience. One is in holy company, imbibing the words of one who is speaking from his heart. Readers should be grateful to the compiler and the publishers for thinking about this unique endeavour, and bringing about it successfully. Just as Swamiji himself used to carry a copy of the Gita with him always, one cannot do better than carry a copy of this book with one always.
Swami Vivekananda described the Gita as a ‘bouquet of beautiful flowers picked from the garden of the Upanishads’. One can similarly consider this book as a floral offering to Swamiji, a bouquet of beautiful flowers picked from the garden of his Complete Works.
NVC Swamy,
Bangalore
Vedanta Kesari
December 21, 2017
probably the most amazing, mesmerizing and ineffable exposition I have ever read of Bhagavad Gita.Unlike other expositions, I feel, everyone especially Indian youth must read this one, in order to differentiate the conundrum existing in life around themselves and find the actual meaning thereof and motivation to move forward, that is independent of time and space. most importantly the meaning you get is soul-stirring. helped me clear many dogmas. Every time I read it reveals something so surprising, I find myself in a different dimension altogether.
August 9, 2017
"Swami Vivekananda's commentary on Shrimad Bhagwat Geeta as viewed by Swami Madhurandana" should be the appropriate title for this book instead of present one,
This book is very good for begginer who wants a breif idea about 'Bhagwat Geeta' and Swami Vivekananda's correlation of its with Rajyoga, Jana yoga, karmayoga and other indian philosophical principle,
This book is beautifully written, pays emphasis only on important topics (verses) of every Adhyay(Chapter) especially karma yoga, Atmasayam yoga and Bhakti yoga e.t.c
But the book, since is complied by Swami Madhurandana, is not as authentic as you must be expecting; you will observe at some places statement by Swami Vivekananda, illustration of any incident or any conversation between Swamiji and his disciple or any other entity are tameperd or moulded by author in order to prove his arguments,
Like in certain places aurthor has blamed 'Buddhism' and 'Jainsim' responsible for advent of invaders and failure of santhan Dharma society through formation of bad habit (Tamas guna) by Hindu society like not taking initiative to fight injustice ( while claiming to be nonviolent and pacifist); which, I don't think so Swami Vivekananda ever thought, since as far as i know he never blamed anyone for failure of sanatan Dharma society(Hindu) but always emphasis on self improvement(positive karma) and destruction of any kind of pride and delusion.
Also, this book at some point 'justified' birth based Castesim( like on Page 146) which i don't think Sawmi Vivekanand ever believed, as he always preached existence of God in every living being and boast that one should raise the self by self; i.e to be much more refined version of them!
In short, i would sum up by saying that You will only get 'his' opion on study of Bhagwat Gita by Swami Vivekananda,which as a reader you should preasume before buying, apart from these issue, complication of works of Swami Vivekananda is done brilliantly by Swami Madhurandana(author),
Despite of all this, it is best book on principle of Bhagavad Gita in a 'nutshell' as viewed by Swami Vivekananda and is very good for beginners,
I will advice you to use this book for skeleton reading and if you want to read in depth refer to other books; also read book like Rajyoga, Karmayoga and Vedanta and it's philosophy etc authored by Swami Vivekananda himself to understand outlook of Swamiji!
This book is very good for begginer who wants a breif idea about 'Bhagwat Geeta' and Swami Vivekananda's correlation of its with Rajyoga, Jana yoga, karmayoga and other indian philosophical principle,
This book is beautifully written, pays emphasis only on important topics (verses) of every Adhyay(Chapter) especially karma yoga, Atmasayam yoga and Bhakti yoga e.t.c
But the book, since is complied by Swami Madhurandana, is not as authentic as you must be expecting; you will observe at some places statement by Swami Vivekananda, illustration of any incident or any conversation between Swamiji and his disciple or any other entity are tameperd or moulded by author in order to prove his arguments,
Like in certain places aurthor has blamed 'Buddhism' and 'Jainsim' responsible for advent of invaders and failure of santhan Dharma society through formation of bad habit (Tamas guna) by Hindu society like not taking initiative to fight injustice ( while claiming to be nonviolent and pacifist); which, I don't think so Swami Vivekananda ever thought, since as far as i know he never blamed anyone for failure of sanatan Dharma society(Hindu) but always emphasis on self improvement(positive karma) and destruction of any kind of pride and delusion.
Also, this book at some point 'justified' birth based Castesim( like on Page 146) which i don't think Sawmi Vivekanand ever believed, as he always preached existence of God in every living being and boast that one should raise the self by self; i.e to be much more refined version of them!
In short, i would sum up by saying that You will only get 'his' opion on study of Bhagwat Gita by Swami Vivekananda,which as a reader you should preasume before buying, apart from these issue, complication of works of Swami Vivekananda is done brilliantly by Swami Madhurandana(author),
Despite of all this, it is best book on principle of Bhagavad Gita in a 'nutshell' as viewed by Swami Vivekananda and is very good for beginners,
I will advice you to use this book for skeleton reading and if you want to read in depth refer to other books; also read book like Rajyoga, Karmayoga and Vedanta and it's philosophy etc authored by Swami Vivekananda himself to understand outlook of Swamiji!
February 4, 2018
its a collection of Vivekananda's views on Gita meticulously compiled verse by verse. a thought provoking and an interesting read.
July 11, 2020
Learning is joyfully process.....
October 22, 2025
I think this interpretation while old fashioned is undervalued by us westerners. What I can appreciate is in its time there were barely phones, and train travel was common. This means the translation has a more pure and heartfelt message inside it. It is also a little bit more strict that some of the modern day "influencer" approaches.
I have studied Vivekananda and appreciate all his work, and this is a masterpiece.
I have studied Vivekananda and appreciate all his work, and this is a masterpiece.
December 19, 2020
A very easy to understand supplement text on Bhagawad Gita, comprising of lectures on it and touching on Vedanta, by Swamiji. This can undoubtedly be a good starting point for a beginner for reading a proper translated Gita subsequently.
November 28, 2017
An ever-lightening lamp of knowledge.A must read for everyone !!
February 5, 2020
This is a beginner's guide to Bhagwad Gita. The philosophical aspects are deep and requires a slow read. It succeeded in nudging me to explore more about Gita.
May 5, 2021
Best and easy app to read keep it up great work
January 4, 2022
This book gives view on Bhagavad Gita by collecting various notes and collection of Vivekananda.
March 11, 2022
If I had a choice to hold on to just a book for life ... It shall be this very book .
November 15, 2022
Makes the reader think and question.
March 27, 2023
Life changing. Not enough words to explain how easily it can transform someone's life.
October 7, 2024
It's a good book but has only 60 slokas of Geeta.
January 29, 2025
One of the best commentaries on the Bhagavad Gita. I should have read it earlier.
December 1, 2023
"Bhagavad Gita As Viewed by Swami Vivekananda" offers readers a profound exploration into the sacred verses of the Bhagavad Gita through the lens of one of India's greatest spiritual philosophers, Swami Vivekananda. This compilation, drawn from the extensive material found in the nine volumes of the Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda, serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding the wisdom embedded in this timeless scripture!
Organized in alignment with the chapters and verses of the Bhagavad Gita, the book provides a structured journey through the teachings of Lord Krishna as interpreted by Swami Vivekananda. The verses of the Gita, presented in the original Devanagri script alongside English translations, offer readers an authentic and immersive experience, inviting them to delve into the spiritual essence of this revered scripture.
One of the distinctive features of this compilation is its meticulous classification of Swami Vivekananda's views, ensuring that readers can easily navigate through the commentary corresponding to specific chapters and verses of the Gita. This thoughtful arrangement enhances the accessibility of Swami Vivekananda's insights, allowing readers to connect with the teachings in a systematic and coherent manner.
Swami Vivekananda's interpretation of the Bhagavad Gita is characterized by its depth, clarity, and practical relevance. As a proponent of practical spirituality, Swami Vivekananda offers a unique perspective that transcends mere philosophical discourse. His commentary reflects a harmonious blend of profound philosophical insights and actionable guidance, making the teachings of the Gita accessible to individuals across diverse walks of life.
The inclusion of the Devanagri script adds a traditional dimension to the presentation, enabling those familiar with the script to engage with the original verses in their authentic form. Simultaneously, the English translation ensures that a broader audience, irrespective of linguistic backgrounds, can comprehend the profound teachings embedded in the Gita.
This compilation, essentially a synthesis of Swami Vivekananda's reflections on the Bhagavad Gita, serves as a valuable resource for both spiritual seekers and scholars. It not only preserves the essence of Swami Vivekananda's interpretation but also provides a structured pathway for readers to explore the Gita's teachings in a manner that aligns with the sage's perspectives.
In conclusion, "Bhagavad Gita As Viewed by Swami Vivekananda" is a literary gem that harmoniously brings together the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita and the insightful commentary of Swami Vivekananda. It stands as a beacon of spiritual enlightenment, guiding readers on a transformative journey through the sacred verses of this revered scripture. Whether one is a seasoned seeker or a novice on the path of spirituality, this compilation offers an invaluable companion for contemplation, reflection, and the pursuit of higher consciousness!
Organized in alignment with the chapters and verses of the Bhagavad Gita, the book provides a structured journey through the teachings of Lord Krishna as interpreted by Swami Vivekananda. The verses of the Gita, presented in the original Devanagri script alongside English translations, offer readers an authentic and immersive experience, inviting them to delve into the spiritual essence of this revered scripture.
One of the distinctive features of this compilation is its meticulous classification of Swami Vivekananda's views, ensuring that readers can easily navigate through the commentary corresponding to specific chapters and verses of the Gita. This thoughtful arrangement enhances the accessibility of Swami Vivekananda's insights, allowing readers to connect with the teachings in a systematic and coherent manner.
Swami Vivekananda's interpretation of the Bhagavad Gita is characterized by its depth, clarity, and practical relevance. As a proponent of practical spirituality, Swami Vivekananda offers a unique perspective that transcends mere philosophical discourse. His commentary reflects a harmonious blend of profound philosophical insights and actionable guidance, making the teachings of the Gita accessible to individuals across diverse walks of life.
The inclusion of the Devanagri script adds a traditional dimension to the presentation, enabling those familiar with the script to engage with the original verses in their authentic form. Simultaneously, the English translation ensures that a broader audience, irrespective of linguistic backgrounds, can comprehend the profound teachings embedded in the Gita.
This compilation, essentially a synthesis of Swami Vivekananda's reflections on the Bhagavad Gita, serves as a valuable resource for both spiritual seekers and scholars. It not only preserves the essence of Swami Vivekananda's interpretation but also provides a structured pathway for readers to explore the Gita's teachings in a manner that aligns with the sage's perspectives.
In conclusion, "Bhagavad Gita As Viewed by Swami Vivekananda" is a literary gem that harmoniously brings together the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita and the insightful commentary of Swami Vivekananda. It stands as a beacon of spiritual enlightenment, guiding readers on a transformative journey through the sacred verses of this revered scripture. Whether one is a seasoned seeker or a novice on the path of spirituality, this compilation offers an invaluable companion for contemplation, reflection, and the pursuit of higher consciousness!
December 30, 2015
If you are searching for a book which introduces you to the greatest book man ever wrote i.e. Bhagavat Gita,start with this great book.
Though the book is not even 1% of what Bhagavat Gita is.However, this book can be compared to a travel guide if the Bhagavat Gita is the place/location you ought to visit.Why I have compared this to Travel Guide because you get the real essence only when you visit the place/location rather than the looking at the images or reading the content in Travel Guide.
The best part about the book I felt was a section which answered my question which I had deep down in my heart from years(don't know the count but I assume right from the time I am able to understand how this world works).The Question of "To whom the Charity should be Given?"
Charity can be given in three ways
1) The doer think of nothing but his own impulse to be kind.
2) The doer does for his own glory.
3) The doer gives to the right person,in the right way,and at the proper time.
Read the book to understand the above concept more and good book which talks to you and may answer some of your Questions if you have any!
Though the book is not even 1% of what Bhagavat Gita is.However, this book can be compared to a travel guide if the Bhagavat Gita is the place/location you ought to visit.Why I have compared this to Travel Guide because you get the real essence only when you visit the place/location rather than the looking at the images or reading the content in Travel Guide.
The best part about the book I felt was a section which answered my question which I had deep down in my heart from years(don't know the count but I assume right from the time I am able to understand how this world works).The Question of "To whom the Charity should be Given?"
Charity can be given in three ways
1) The doer think of nothing but his own impulse to be kind.
2) The doer does for his own glory.
3) The doer gives to the right person,in the right way,and at the proper time.
Read the book to understand the above concept more and good book which talks to you and may answer some of your Questions if you have any!
August 14, 2015
The message of the book is precious but the way it is compiled in this volume is utterly gibberish. I was disappointed as Vivekananda's thoughts holds an esteemed regard from my side but the presentation in this book could have been a lot better.
It is highly repetitive and sometimes even the same text is copy-pasted.
It is highly repetitive and sometimes even the same text is copy-pasted.
December 17, 2013
Not on the level to review this book.
May 19, 2014
SWAMIJI
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews