The Origin of The Bhagavad Gita

Similar to many ancient Indian scriptures like the Vedas and the Upanishads, the exact authorship of the Bhagavad Gita is not historically clear. However, according to long-standing Indian tradition, this sacred text is widely attributed to a revered sage known as Vyasa.

Vyasa is not merely considered the compiler of the Bhagavad Gita; he is more akin to a legendary cultural hero rather than a single historical figure. He is believed to be the great compiler of ancient knowledge and wisdom, and the editor of the epic Mahabharata, of which the Bhagavad Gita forms a crucial part. Thus, Vyasa’s stature in Indian culture is often compared to that of the great author of ancient Greek epics like the Iliad and the Odyssey—Homer. He symbolizes the transmission of wisdom and the systematization of knowledge.

Themes and Story Background

During the time the Bhagavad Gita was written, asceticism – a life of severe self-discipline and abstention from all forms of indulgence – was widely considered the ideal spiritual path in India. The common belief was that only by completely renouncing the world could one achieve spiritual liberation.

“You were never born; you will never die. You have never changed; you will never change.” —The Bhagavad Gita

However, the Bhagavad Gita challenges this prevailing idea, revolving around a central question: How can a person live a spiritually meaningful life without withdrawing from society? Is there a right path for those who don’t want to abandon their family and social duties? The “Song of God” dares to question the general consensus that only renunciates and monks could achieve perfection through abandonment.

Key Characters

Before diving into the story, let’s meet the two main characters:

• Arjuna: The greatest archer and leader of the Pandavas. He is a highly skilled and virtuous member of the Kshatriya (warrior-ruler caste). Known for his courage, fairness, and commitment to righteousness, Arjuna finds himself in a deep moral and emotional crisis on the battlefield when facing his own relatives and mentors. This profound dilemma sets the stage for the wisdom shared in the Bhagavad Gita.
• Krishna: In the story, he is Arjuna’s cousin, dear friend, and charioteer. However, his true identity is that of the Supreme Godhead, who has incarnated in human form. He serves as Arjuna’s divine mentor, guiding him through his confusion and helping him grasp universal truths and spiritual principles.

Story Setting and Plot

The plot of the Bhagavad Gita revolves around the struggle for the throne between two cousin families: the Pandavas and the Kauravas.

After all attempts at diplomatic resolution failed, the armies of these two clans met on the battlefield to settle their conflict by force and determine which side would claim the kingdom.

Arjuna, the great archer and leader of the Pandavas, a member of the Kshatriya (warrior-ruler caste), looked across at the opposing army. When he recognized his friends, relatives, former teachers, and indeed many dear ones on the enemy side, he became deeply distressed and confused, refusing to fight. Krishna, witnessing Arjuna’s resolve to withdraw, began to persuade him, explaining why he should uphold his duty as a warrior and engage in battle. Thus, the Bhagavad Gita is a dialogue between Arjuna and Krishna – a seeker and one who possesses ultimate knowledge and divine wisdom.