The twelfth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India’s most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.
In this talk, starting with Chapter 3:29, Swamiji discusses how our yoga practice should be evident in our lives and be an examples to others. He talks about Krishna’s words on dedicating our actions to God, and the power of our spiritual associations and the company we keep.
Here are the Gita verses (3:29–3:30) covered in this talk:
Those deluded by the gunas of prakriti are attached to the actions of the gunas. The knower of the whole truth should not disturb the foolish of partial knowledge. (3:29)
Renouncing all actions in me, intent on the Supreme Spirit, free from desire and “mine,” free from the “fever” of delusion and grief: fight! (3:30)
Here are the main points on this Gita Talk, focusing on Responsibility for Our Actions:
- Illumination and Action: Even if we are not perfectly enlightened, we should not use that as an excuse for inaction. According to Hinduism, we are inherently divine, not just human, and should strive to demonstrate this divinity through our actions.
- Demonstration of Spirituality: The term “demonstration” from the New Thought movement is highlighted, suggesting that we need to live and act according to our spiritual claims, not just speak of them.
- Avoiding Confusion: Enlightened or wise individuals must engage in right action to set an example and not confuse those who are less aware or ignorant. Their actions should be visible and reflective of their spiritual understanding.
- Critique of Superficial Spirituality: Swamiji cautions those who practice spirituality in secret or are embarrassed by their spiritual practices, suggesting that true spirituality should be integrated into one’s public life.
- Identification with the Divine: People often mistakenly identify with their body and its actions, rather than recognizing their true divine nature. This leads to a life lived in ignorance or “fever of ignorance,” where one’s true potential is unrecognized.
- Krishna’s Advice to Arjuna: Krishna encourages dedicating all actions to the God, which means orienting all actions towards realizing one’s own divinity, rather than seeking worldly rewards or recognition.
- Personal Transformation: Swamiji emphasizes the need for a complete transformation of one’s life. It’s not enough to change superficially or to meditate in secret; one’s entire approach to life must reflect their spiritual journey.
- Influence of Company: The importance of surrounding oneself with like-minded or spiritually inclined individuals is highlighted with an anecdote about moving to be near a spiritual community, underscoring that company can be stronger than willpower.
- Experience of Divinity: An encounter with a saintly figure acts as a catalyst for profound personal change, suggesting that direct experience of divinity can significantly alter one’s life direction.
- Call to Action: The talk concludes with an encouragement to actively fight against ignorance within oneself and to seek spiritual home, not just in physical locations but within the ultimate reality of God.
The main message is about living a life where every action reflects one’s spiritual truth, demonstrating commitment to one’s divine nature, and actively pursuing a path that aligns with higher consciousness.
