What are the Correct Rules for Reading Bhagavad Gita? What is Covered in Each Chapter?

Gita Jayanti is celebrated on the Ekadashi Tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Margashirsha. The Srimad Bhagavad Gita serves as a life guide and is part of the Mahabharata, authored by Ved Vyasa. It encompasses the teachings of Lord Krishna imparted to Arjuna. In the Gita, Lord Krishna elucidates the principles of Karma, Bhakti, and Yoga.

It emphasizes the importance of focusing on one’s duties and actions without being attached to the outcomes, as every action carries its own consequences. The Gita aids in understanding the essence of life, how to navigate it, and the connection between the soul and the Supreme Being. It also instructs us on how to differentiate between right and wrong actions. Here’s a guide on how to read the Gita and what each chapter covers.

How to Understand the Bhagavad Gita

Reading the Gita is straightforward. Start by reading or listening to it. The first time through, it might not fully resonate, so revisit it while contemplating its meanings. From this reflection, develop your own insights and discuss them with others to gain from their perspectives as well. This approach will enhance your comprehension of the messages within the Bhagavad Gita. Some scholars suggest that one should never cease reading the Gita, as it often holds the answers to pressing questions within its verses.

Rules for Reading the Bhagavad Gita:

Peaceful Environment: It’s ideal to read the Gita during a calm time when your mind, body, and surroundings are serene and positive.
After Bathing: Always read or recite the Gita after taking a bath and with a tranquil mind.
Focus and Respect: While reading, minimize distractions and try not to get up frequently for other tasks.
Clean Place: Sit on a clean surface or mat while reading.
Prayers: Before and after each chapter, offer your prayers to Lord Krishna.
Read Alone First: If possible, read it by yourself first, then share the experience by reading it with family members the second time.

What is Covered in Each Chapter of the Bhagavad Gita?

Chapter 1: Arjuna Vishada Yoga (The Yoga of Arjuna’s Dejection)
This chapter explores Arjuna’s inner turmoil and moral conflict as he faces the battle ahead.

Chapter 2: Sankhya Yoga (The Yoga of Knowledge)
In this chapter, Lord Krishna enlightens Arjuna about the eternal nature of the soul and urges him to conquer his fears.

Chapter 3: Karma Yoga (The Yoga of Action)
Krishna encourages Arjuna to fulfill his responsibilities (karma) without being attached to the outcomes.

Chapter 4: Jnana Karma Sanyasa Yoga (The Yoga of Knowledge and Renunciation of Action)
Here, Krishna highlights the importance of Yajnas and wisdom, explaining how selfless actions contribute to spiritual growth.

Chapter 5: Karma Sanyasa Yoga (The Yoga of Renunciation of Action)
This chapter delves into the concept of renouncing action and emphasizes the value of selfless service.

Chapter 6: Atma Sanyama Yoga (The Yoga of Self-Control)
The focus of this chapter is on meditation practices and the necessity of mastering one’s mind and senses.

Chapter 7 to 12 of the Bhagavad Geeta

Chapter 7: Jnana Vijnana Yoga (The Yoga of Knowledge and Wisdom)

Krishna discusses the essence of God and the devotion exhibited by His genuine followers.

Chapter 8: Akshara Brahma Yoga (The Yoga of the Imperishable Absolute)
Arjuna poses questions regarding the eternal soul and the Supreme, to which Krishna responds with insights on these spiritual matters.

Chapter 9: Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga (The Yoga of Royal Knowledge and Royal Secret)
Krishna elaborates on the divine nature of creation and emphasizes the significance of devotion to Him.

Chapter 10: Vibhuti Yoga (The Yoga of Divine Glories)
Krishna unveils His divine manifestations throughout the world, showcasing the signs of His supreme power.

Chapter 11: Visvarupa Darshana Yoga (The Yoga of the Vision of the Universal Form)
Arjuna is granted the ability to witness Krishna’s universal form, which reveals His all-encompassing essence.

Chapter 12: Bhakti Yoga (The Yoga of Devotion)
Krishna describes the path of devotion as the most effective way to receive God’s grace.

Chapter 13 to 18 of the Bhagavad Geeta

Chapter 13: Kshetra Kshetrajna Vibhaga Yoga (The Yoga of the Field and the Knower of the Field)
This chapter explores the difference between the physical body (the field) and the soul (the knower of the field), shedding light on knowledge and the nature of the self.

Chapter 14: Gunatraya Vibhaga Yoga (The Yoga of the Division of the Three Gunas)
In this chapter, Krishna discusses how the three qualities of nature—sattva (goodness), rajas (passion), and tamas (ignorance)—influence human behavior and spiritual development.

Chapter 15: Purusottama Yoga (The Yoga of the Supreme Divine Personality)
Here, the nature of both the material and spiritual realms is explored, highlighting the significance of devotion to Lord Krishna.

Chapter 16: Devasura Sampad Vibhaga Yoga (The Yoga of the Division of the Divine and Demoniacal Properties)
Krishna outlines the characteristics of divine and demoniacal individuals, along with the destinies that await them.

Chapter 17: Sraddhatraya Vibhaga Yoga (The Yoga of the Three Divisions of Faith)
This chapter delves into the various types of food, sacrifices, and actions associated with the three gunas, and how they influence faith.

Chapter 18: Moksha Sanyasa Yoga (The Yoga of Liberation and Renunciation)
Krishna wraps up by discussing the paths of knowledge, action, renunciation, and liberation, stressing the importance of detachment from the material world.

This structure offers a clear insight into the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and their significance in our lives.