A core element of spiritual development is studying sacred texts. For most of my life, I chose the Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu, which I still treasure. But in recent years, I have turned my attention to the Bhagavad Gita (God Song).
I love the Bhagavad Gita because it clearly, compassionately, and powerfully speaks to the deepest truths of human existence. It is a living dialogue between God and God’s creation, humanity, as represented by the warrior Arjuna. Krishna, Arjuna’s blue-skinned charioteer, plays God.
The story begins with Arjuna having a complete meltdown and turning to the divine for help.
Arjuna’s crisis mirrors the moral and emotional dilemmas we all face. Krishna’s response is both practical and transcendent, offering a path to live with purpose, courage, and surrender.
What moves me most is the Gita’s call to selfless action—karma yoga. It teaches to focus on the quality of effort rather than the results of one’s efforts. In times of great concern, this has helped me stay grounded.
The Gita affirms the divinity within, encouraging one to recognize the sacred in every aspect of the world.
Ultimately, it reminds me that life is a sacred duty, and love—expressed through action—is the highest path.
“It is better to live your own destiny imperfectly than to live an imitation of somebody else’s life with perfection.”
– Bhagavad Gita
