Sri Aurobindo’s Vision of the Bhagavad Gita: A Journey Through Essays on the Gita

The Bhagavad Gita, a cornerstone of Indian spiritual literature, has inspired countless interpretations. Among them, Sri Aurobindo’s Essays on the Gita stands out for its profound depth and integrative vision. Originally serialized in the journal Arya between 1916 and 1920, these essays were later revised by Sri Aurobindo and published as a comprehensive book in 1928.

1. The Divine Teacher: Krishna as the Avatar

In the chapter "The Divine Teacher," Sri Aurobindo delves into the role of Krishna, portraying him not merely as a historical figure but as the eternal Avatar guiding humanity. He emphasizes that Krishna embodies the divine consciousness that descends into the world to uplift it. This perspective aligns with Bhagavad Gita 4.7–8, where Krishna declares his incarnation to restore dharma.

"Whenever there is the fading of the Dharma and the uprising of unrighteousness, then I loose myself forth into birth." (Bhagavad Gita 4.7)

Sri Aurobindo interprets this not as a mere cyclical event but as a continuous process where the Divine intervenes whenever there is a need to re-establish balance.

2. Karma Yoga: The Path of Selfless Action

Sri Aurobindo places significant emphasis on Karma Yoga, the yoga of selfless action. He interprets Bhagavad Gita 2.47, which states that one has the right to work but not to the fruits of work, as a call to perform duties without attachment.

"Thy right is to work only, but never to its fruits." (Bhagavad Gita 2.47)

In his essays, he elucidates that such action, free from desire, leads to spiritual liberation. This aligns with his broader philosophy that true freedom comes from acting in harmony with the divine will, without egoistic motives.

3. The Synthesis of Yogas: Integrating Paths

One of the unique aspects of Sri Aurobindo's interpretation is his synthesis of various yogic paths—Karma (action), Bhakti (devotion), and Jnana (knowledge). He argues that the Gita does not advocate for one path over the others but encourages an integrative approach.

"He who sees inaction in action, and action in inaction, is wise among men." (Bhagavad Gita 4.18)

Sri Aurobindo explains that this verse highlights the importance of inner detachment and the realization that all actions are ultimately performed by the Divine. This understanding leads to the harmonization of all yogic paths in one's spiritual practice.

4. The Battle of Kurukshetra: Symbolism of Inner Struggle

In the chapter "Kurukshetra," Sri Aurobindo interprets the battlefield not just as a physical location but as a symbol of the inner moral and spiritual struggles each individual faces. He suggests that the war represents the conflict between higher aspirations and lower impulses within the human psyche.

"This is the eternal battle between the powers of light and the powers of darkness." (Essays on the Gita, p. 39)

By engaging in this inner battle with the guidance of the Divine, one progresses on the path of spiritual evolution.

5. The Eternal Dharma: Beyond Social Conventions

Sri Aurobindo emphasizes that the Gita teaches an eternal dharma, which transcends societal norms and conventions. He interprets Bhagavad Gita 18.66, where Krishna advises Arjuna to abandon all dharmas and surrender solely to Him, as an invitation to rise above rigid moral codes and align with the divine will.

"Abandon all dharmas and take refuge in Me alone." (Bhagavad Gita 18.66)

This surrender is not a passive act but an active alignment with the higher purpose of life, leading to true freedom and fulfillment.

Further Reading

For those interested in exploring Sri Aurobindo's Essays on the Gita in depth, the following resources are invaluable:​

• Sri Aurobindo Ashram Official PDF: Download here

• Online Reading: Mother and Sri Aurobindo

• Internet Archive: Essays on the Gita

These resources provide comprehensive access to Sri Aurobindo's profound interpretations, offering readers a pathway to deeper understanding and spiritual growth.

Embarking on the journey through Sri Aurobindo's Essays on the Gita is not merely an academic exercise but a transformative experience that bridges ancient wisdom with contemporary spiritual aspirations.

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