Bhagavad Gita is a Hindu scripture written as a narrative dialogue in which the spiritual connotations are exemplified. The religious aspect of the book is present through Krishna’s aim to guide Arjun during the prince’s moral dilemma. The conversation between the two illustrates religious seeking and teachings that help find the right path and motivation based on ideals and religion, not selfishness.
A prominent religious concept illustrated in the dialogue is war, one’s decisions regarding fighting, and the motive for engaging in violence. It is essential to highlight the historical context in which the righteous war between Pandavas and Kauravas seemed inevitable (Fosse 13). The conflict would imply violence against the prince’s kin, which set Krishna up for mentoring and providing a religious overview of the events and Arjun’s involvement. The spiritual connotation is exemplified through the ambiguous explanation of what a virtual path constitutes, the complexity of this concept, and the presence of the notion of self. Thus, the dogma implies inner renunciation and selflessness, which would mean that the prince can fight for values and ideals rather than personal rewards and fulfilling his individual agenda (Fosse 13). Based on this notion, fighting for selfish reasons cannot excuse violence.
The text itself is not a religious guide but rather aims to provide a path to spiritual and moral realization, which is at the basis of the spirituality within the narrative. Thus, the war becomes a strong catalyst that makes Arjun question himself, while his teacher urges him to give up the self and become selfless in order for the conflict to be resolved. Thus, knowing that a person is a material, acting accordingly, and restraining from human senses creates the outcome that is meant to be experienced without the selfish gratification purpose or any other motivations that align with the inner desires of that person.
Works Cited
Fosse, Lars Martin. The Bhagavat Gita. Yoga Vidya, 2007.