Essential Concepts in Bhagavadgita Volume- 4 (Based on Chapters 7 to 12 of Bhagavadgita)

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Volume 4 contains articles based on concepts primarily presented in chapters 7 to 12 of Bhagavadgita. Various aspects of devotional sadhana with progressively subtler and loftier notes of devotion occupy predominant position in these chapters. Poojya Swamiji has dealt with the concepts from the standpoint of his experiential clarity as a Knower Teacher.

Poojya Swamiji begins with the transcendental dimension of the Guru. When a seeker takes to spiritual pursuit wholesomely, Guru becomes his sole refuge. Words and guidance of the Guru replace all the religious ideas and ritualistic practices he had been associated with. To redeem the disciple of his confusion, the Guru often has to display his Godly dimension.

Poojya Swamiji clarifies that the "mat-paratva" (Krishna instructing Arjuna: "Regard Me as Supreme!") is not anything unique to Krishna and Arjuna. It is true of the relationship between any great Master and his excellent disciple. As Arjuna's surrender to Krishna grows wholesome, to give him confidence and assurance, Krishna assumes the Godly position, which climaxes in "Visvarupa-darsana" of Ch.11. Poojya Swamiji's exposition on the "Truth and Myth of Visvarupa- darsana will clarify the doubts and delusions of many serious seekers on the path.

As devotion grows wholesome, the saadhana undergoes a drastic change: the focus of the devotee now shifts from "God" to "devotion", and inculcation of bhakta-lakshanas (the characteristics of a true devotee, enunciated in Ch.12) occupies the primary place in sadhana. Poojya Swamiji has revealed the inestimable importance of this characteral and interactional refinement in the life of a devotee. He points out that to attain the Supreme, the devotee must learn to get rid of his constricted notions about God and devotion, and ensure that his mind fosters no dislike towards any aspect of the world.

Finally, Poojya Swamiji clarifies that once the seeker gives the Supreme "the supreme position" in life, each and every act of his becomes an unreserved dedication to the Supreme. Vanishing of the divisional note between the Supreme and himself verily marks the essence and finale of devotional pursuit.

Our country is replete with devotional practices. If only we could learn from our scriptures, particularly Bhagavadgita and sreemad Bhagavatam, the refined and lofty levels of devotional pursuit, perhaps the society around would have been in a much better state. We hope that this volume will help to provide the right understanding about devotional and knowledge pursuit to many devotees and seekers.