Before we look at Chapter 8 of the Bhagavad Gita, lets first understand the gita in its entirety. The Bhagavad Gita is one of the world’s most revered spiritual texts, providing profound insights into the nature of existence, dharma (duty), and the spiritual path. The eighth chapter is particularly enlightening, focusing on ‘Akshara-Parabrahman Yoga’, which translates to ‘The Yoga of the Imperishable Brahman’. This chapter delves deep into life’s ultimate truths and how to align ourselves with them.
Main Teachings of Chapter 8 of the Bhagavad Gita
- Nature of the Imperishable Brahman: The imperishable Brahman is the eternal essence behind the physical world. It is unchanging and beyond material existence.
- The Cycle of Creation and Dissolution: Lord Krishna explains the nature of creation, preservation, and dissolution. Everything in the material world undergoes this cyclical existence, unlike the eternal soul.
- Remembering the Divine at the Time of Death: The thoughts at the time of death play a crucial role in determining the soul’s journey. Those who leave their bodies thinking of the divine enter into a divine realm.
- Path of Attainment: The method of continuous devotion and remembrance ensures that the practitioner is in constant communion with the divine. This is deemed as the best way to ensure a favourable destiny after death.
- Nature of the Ultimate Goal: The chapter culminates with a description of the supreme goal, which is beyond birth and death. Once this state is attained, there is no return to the cycle of birth and death.
Practical Tips for Application in Our Lives:
- Daily Meditation: Establish a routine of daily meditation. Focus on the eternal, unchanging aspect of existence (the Brahman) to gain a deep understanding and connection.
- Mindful Living: Be mindful of your actions and thoughts throughout the day. The more we align with the eternal truths, the more harmonious our lives become.
- Continuous Remembrance: Develop a habit of remembering the divine throughout the day. This can be achieved by silently repeating a mantra, prayer, or simply being aware of the divine presence.
- Dedication of Actions: Whatever you do, do it as an offering to the divine. By dedicating our actions to something higher than ourselves, we move away from ego-driven motivations.
- Understanding the Temporal Nature of Existence: Recognise the transient nature of material life. This understanding can help in reducing attachments and aversions, leading to a more peaceful life.
- Preparation for Death: While it may sound morbid to some, reflecting on our mortality can inspire us to lead a purposeful life. Regularly contemplate on the nature of existence, and strive to keep the mind attuned to the divine, especially during life’s crucial moments.
- Seek Knowledge: Regularly study spiritual texts or listen to discourses. This nourishes the soul and provides clarity in the path of spiritual evolution.
Chapter 8 of the Bhagavad Gita – A Summary
In conclusion, chapter 8 of the Bhagavad Gita offers profound insights into the nature of the eternal, the importance of the mind’s state at death, and the means to align with the ultimate truth. By applying these teachings, one can lead a life of purpose, peace, and ultimate liberation.
This article is part of a Bhagavad Gita series, you can read more at the links below….
Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, Chapter 5, Chapter 6, Chapter 7, Chapter 8, Chapter 9, Chapter 10, Chapter 11, Chapter 12, Chapter 13, Chapter 14, Chapter 15, Chapter 16, Chapter 17 and Chapter 18.