For over four decades, Hridayananda das Goswami has dedicated his life to sharing the profound wisdom of the Bhagavad-gita, both within ISKCON communities and at leading universities worldwide. His dedication has culminated in this publication, a testament to his years of studying, teaching, and embodying the essence of this revered text.
In his introduction, Hridayananda das Goswami unveils the motivation and aspirations behind this book. He eloquently states:
“Having read, studied and cherished the Gita for decades at the feet of my teacher Srila Prabhupada, I could not help but share the profound conceptual connections that make this Sanskrit text so magical. The Gita is widely recognized as a work of spiritual and philosophical genius, and early on I fell in love with its Sanskrit text. My sincere wish here, through explication and translation, is to bring the general reader deep within that original Sanskrit. I hope you enjoy the journey.”
This book acts as a companion piece to A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada’s seminal work, Bhagavad Gita As It Is. Prabhupada himself encouraged Hridayananda das Goswami to articulate these teachings “in your own words” to reach Western audiences. With this guidance, Hridayananda das Goswami endeavors to bridge rigorous scholarship and accessible language, offering readers a clear pathway into the Bhagavad-gita’s complex and sophisticated teachings.
Key Aspects of the Comprehensive Guide
Divided thematically into twelve distinct parts, each further segmented into multiple subsections, this guide distinguishes itself by elucidating critical Sanskrit terms within the original text. This is achieved by exploring the literal meanings of the Sanskrit words, empowering the text to define its own concepts and construct its arguments organically. Specific emphasis is placed on core categories such as:
- Knowledge
- Meditation
- Karma
- Devotion
- Sacrifice
- Renunciation
- Equality
- Liberation
A Comprehensive Guide to Bhagavad-gita also features a meticulous, literal translation of the ancient text, allowing readers to engage with the source material directly.
Expert Reviews and Recognition
While the book is currently undergoing review by several respected publications, it has already garnered significant praise from prominent ISKCON leaders and esteemed scholars of Sanskrit and Hindu Studies. Here are a few excerpts:
Krishna Ksetra Swami, Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies
“Especially impressive is the fact that this volume not only provides the reader with a stimulating learning experience, but also serves as an exceptional reference book for specific topics. Thus, in terms of my own Gita studies, I am happy to have the benefit of this Comprehensive Guide, as well as the excellent, highly literal translation that comes with it. I certainly will be recommending this book to my students of Indian philosophy.”
Graham M. Schweig, Professor of Philosophy and Religion, Christopher Newport University
“Throughout this work we are graced by the knowledge, Sanskrit expertise and personal illuminations of one who is not only a highly trained scholar, but also a widely experienced spiritual teacher. Goswami is to be commended for so eloquently polishing the various facets of this most precious and rare jewel of sacred literature so that we, the readers, may perceive that much more of its unbounded brilliance.”
Edwin Bryant, Professor of Hindu Religion and Philosophy, Rutgers University
“In the late 18th century, Bhagavad-gita became the first Sanskrit work to be rendered in a European tongue, and since that time it has generated countless translations and secondary analyses. Among these, however, H.D. Goswami’s Comprehensive Guide with Literal Translation excels in its capacity to schematize and summarize the Gita’s powerful appeal as a source of perennial wisdom. The literal translation’s careful nuancing demonstrates the author’s Sanskrit mastery and philosophical expertise, while the Guide’s focused precision and theological depth reflect the training of a Harvard doctorate as well as the spiritual insight of one dedicated to the sannyasa (renounced) order.”
Why this Comprehensive Guide Stands Out
This guide offers a unique and enriching experience for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Bhagavad Gita:
- Literal Translation: Provides a precise and faithful rendering of the original Sanskrit text, allowing readers to grasp the nuances of the language.
- Sanskrit Term Elucidation: Explores the literal meanings of key Sanskrit terms, enabling the text to define its own concepts and arguments.
- Thematic Organization: Divides the Bhagavad Gita into twelve thematic parts, each with multiple subsections, for a structured and comprehensive study.
- Accessible Language: Combines rigorous scholarship with simple language, making the complex teachings of the Bhagavad Gita accessible to a wide audience.
Embark on a Journey of Spiritual Discovery
“A Comprehensive Guide to Bhagavad-gita with Literal Translation” provides an invaluable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the profound wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita. Through its careful translation, insightful commentary, and thematic organization, this book unlocks the timeless teachings of this sacred text, offering a transformative journey of spiritual discovery. Consider seeking out a PDF version to enhance your understanding of this ancient scripture.
