Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 60 - Consequences of Ignoring Sensory Disciplinewhat is the significance of striving for sensory discipline even if it is challenging?Why is it essential to persevere and not get disheartened when striving to control the sense organs?What are the consequences of letting the sense organs behave without any control or discipline?In what ways does the mind contribute to our status and respect in society?How are the mind and body considered as great treasures given by Ishvara?What are the effects of bad habits such as drinking on both the body and mind?How does continuous sensory enjoyment lead to the ultimate loss of the mind?What role does the mind play in the practice of Nidhidhyasana, and why is its protection crucial?Why is sensory discipline considered a must according to the teachings in this sloka?Sloka 61 - Path to Steadfast knowledgeWhat should a viveki do to attain jñāna nishta?What is the significance of "tāni sarvāṇi saṃyamya" in the context of sensory discipline?How does one become "yuktaḥ" or a person with a controlled mind?What does "matparaḥ" signify in the process of Nidhidhyasana?What are the three sādanas mentioned in the first line of Sloka 61?How is Nidhidhyasana related to sensory discipline and mind control ?Explain the relationship between sense organ control and the firmness of knowledge as described in "vaśhe hi yasyendriyāṇi tasya prajñā pratiṣhṭhitā."Why is sensory discipline considered the first and last step in spirituality based on the notes?How does the analogy of planting a seed relate to the practice of sensory discipline in spiritual life?Until when should Damaha and Shamaha be practiced in spiritual life?What does it mean for sensory discipline to become one's "swabhaava" and why is it important for jñāna nishta?How does Bhagavan’s advice in Sloka 61 summarize the discussion on Damaha from Sloka 58 to 61?What future references to Damaha can we expect in other chapters of the Bhagavad Gita?How is the concept of controlling sense organs emphasized in Advaita philosophy for achieving spiritual goals?What role does the mind play in achieving jñāna nishta as per the teachings in Sloka 61?Sloka 62 - Eight rung fall - Consequences of Uncontrolled SensesHow does Bhagavan transition from discussing Nidhidhyasana to Shamaha in Sloka 62?What is the significance of Shamaha in the context of spiritual practice?Explain the concept of Shamaha or thought discipline.How does Bhagavan describe Shamaha and its role in attaining Jñāna Nishta?Explain why Shamaha, or thought discipline, is considered more challenging than Damaha (sense control).How does one train the mind according to the concept of Shamaha?What are the two ways in which the mind can lose its calmness?How does the association with external sensory objects affect mental peace?What role does memory (chittam) play in maintaining or disturbing mental calmness?What practical steps are suggested to avoid dwelling on past or future thoughts during meditation?What are some practical steps for training the mind?Explain the concept of taking a sankalpa (resolve) during meditation to avoid past and future thoughts. How does this contribute to Shamaha?Why is it necessary to continually practice Shamaha even after initial training?Describe the term "Viṣaya dhyānam" and its implications.What are the observable characteristics of Viṣaya Dhyānam? How does it manifest in daily life?What is the role of discrimination (viveka) in managing Viṣaya Dhyānam effectively?What is the first stage in the progression from Viṣaya dhyānam to saṅgaḥ?Explain the term "saṅgaḥ" and its implications.How should one approach the development of attachment (saṅgaḥ) towards sense objects?How does the development of saṅgaḥ affect one's perception and relationship with sense objects?What does Shankaracharya mean by using the term "Preetihi" in the context of saṅgaḥ?
Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 58 (Contd...) - The Exemplary Control of the Senses: The Tortoise AnalogyWhat is the second saadana required for Nidhidhyasana?How does a person prepare for dhyana?What role does Smriti (memory) play during dhyana?Why can the mind lose its calmness during meditation, even without external sensory input?What is Shamaha in the context of mind control?What are the two ways mentioned to protect the mind?How are Damaha and Shamaha related to Nidhidyasana?When does a tortoise withdraw its limbs and head?Does a Jnani always keep their sense organs withdrawn? What must be done for Nidhidhyasanam to be effective?Why is sense control necessary for Nidhidhyasanam?What will Bhagavan continue to discuss in Slokas 59 to 61?Sloka 59 - Gradual Process of Sensory Discipline and Attachment DetachmentWhat was Arjuna’s question in Sloka 54?What does the lakshana of a Sthitha Prajna represent for a seeker?How does a jnani's character influence the sādana for a seeker?Why is Damaha important for attaining jñāna nishta?Once a person attains jñāna nishta, should they let go of Damaha?What are the two types of sādanas mentioned?What is an example of a sādana that becomes one's nature after attaining the goal?How does Damaha transition from sādana to swaroopa?What is the difference between the Damaha of a jñāna nishta and a person striving for jñāna nishta?What happens to the sense objects (viṣayāḥ) for someone practicing Damaha?What is meant by vinivartantē rasavarjam?How does the attachment to sense objects change for someone striving for jñāna nishta?What are the two types of addiction discussed?Why is mental addiction deeper than sensory addiction?What is the significance of renouncing rasavarjam?Why is spiritual anānda considered superior to worldly pleasures?What should be done when there is a conflict between physical renunciation and mental attachment?How should one handle claims that enjoyment and liberation can coexist without discipline?What is the difference between starving and fasting in the context of spiritual practice?Why is sensory discipline crucial for jñāna nishta?What does the sloka say about the attachment to sense objects for a person striving for jñāna nishta?Who knows whether a person has truly removed the value for an object from their mind?Sloka 60 - Consequences of Ignoring Sensory DisciplineWhat does Bhagavan say about the consequences of not having sensory discipline?How does Bhagavan describe the nature of our Indriyas?What is the result of not keeping sensory discipline?What does the term "pramāthīni" refer to in the context of this sloka?How do the sense organs affect even a striving wise man?Explain the analogy Bhagavan uses to describe the powerful sense organs and their effect on the mind.How do the sense organs carry away the mind?What does Bhagavan mean by the sense organs having their own "likes and dislikes"?What is the main enemy that Bhagavan cautions us about?What are the two key takeaways from Bhagavan's warning about the sense organs?What does the term "Indriya Anavasthaane Doshaha" mean?Why is losing the mind considered the greatest loss?How can indulging in sensory pleasures ultimately lead to the destruction of the mind?What is the importance of having a protected and strong mind for performing Nidhidyasana?Why is sensory discipline essential for converting jñāna into jñāna nishta?How do the powerful sense organs forcibly carry away the mind?What is the meaning of "yatataḥ hi kaunteya puruṣasya" in this sloka?How does Bhagavan explain the swabhaava (nature) of the sense organs?Why is it significant that even a learned person can be distracted by the sense organs?What is the importance of persevering in the practice of sensory discipline?How does Bhagavan describe the loss associated with not having sensory discipline?How do the body and mind serve as the greatest gifts by Ishvara?
Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 57 - Sthitha Prajna Lakshana 055. Triptihi – Contentment (Mana Niraivu)What is the essence of this sloka?Is a Jnani attached to anything?What does "anabhisnehaḥ" mean?Is the change at physical level or deep mental level?What does "śubha aśubham" mean?What does "na abhinandati na dveṣṭi" mean?Will the jnani rejoice or hate when he faces dharma or adharma?Are we able to take it when we see adharma? Why not?Whose responsibility is to uphold Dharma?What happens if we are victims or where we think we are victims of Adharma?Do we justify if we are on the wrong side of Adharma?How do we treat Dharma & Adharma if there is no attachment?How does a jnani treat Dharma & Adharma?What is the world made of?What does "Dwandatmakam Jagat" mean?What is the highest pair of opposite in this world?Does a jnani have a liking for Dharma and hatred for Adharma?What is other meaning of "na abhinandati na dveṣṭi"?Will a jnani appreciate / praise someone because he brings a sukham situation?Will a jnani criticize / condemn someone because he brings a dukham situation?What does "tasya prajñā pratiṣhṭhitā" mean?What will be established firmly in a jnani?Sloka 58 - Sensory DisciplineWhat is discussed between slokas 58 and 68?Where is Sthitha Prajna upaya given?Why did Bhagavan change the topic?How to attain Jnana?What are the qualifications to attain Jnana?What is the sādana to attain Viveka, Vairagya and Mumukshutvam?What is the first sādana?What does Karma Yōga result in?What is Shravanam?What do we know about ourselves?What does Shastras say about self?What do I think of the self to be?According to shastras do I have any craving, lacking, insecurity, fear, destruction, death etc?According to shastras, am I a samsari or liberated?Why is it that in spite of having that knowledge I still feel myself to be a samsari?Should the knowledge be at a superficial level or should it have gone deeply?When can it go deep?When does a particular emotion or behaviour exhibit itself as swabhaava?How does anger come out of us without much effort?What is the sādana prescribed by shastras for the knowledge to go deep?What is Nidhidhyasana? And is it compulsory?What analogy is used to explain the need for accompanying sādanas along with Nidhidhyasana?What are the 2 other sādanas that need to go along with Nidhidhyasana?How do Damaha and Shamaha help Nidhidyasana to convert our jñāna into jñāna nishta?What are the steps involved in Shravanam?What is the faculty that is used for Nidhidyasana?What needs to be done for the intellect to get deep into the mind?Why do we need to have a relatively calm mind for us to dhyana?What type of mind is unable to perform meditation effectively?Will our mind be calm if there is excitement?Will our mind be calm if there is sorrow?How can we maintain a relatively calm mind for effective Nidhidhyasana?What are the 2 ways by which a mind can lose its calmness?What are the five sense organs that can disturb the mind?How can the mind lose its peace through sensory experiences?How is the jewelry analogy useful in understanding how our mind should be protected from disturbances?Why is it often recommended to meditate early in the morning?What discipline is required to keep the mind calm and conducive for Nidhidhyasana?How does sensory discipline (Damaha) help in maintaining a calm mind?What specific sensory experiences are most likely to disturb the mind?Why does Bhagavan emphasize avoiding certain types of sensory inputs?What is the relationship between sensory discipline and the effectiveness of Nidhidhyasana?
Sloka 55 (Contd...) - Sthitha Prajna Lakshana 01 and 022. Triptihi – Contentment (Mana Niraivu)Does others' behavior impact our happiness?Are we always happy with ourselves?Is there tripti in mind?Are we able to be alone? If not why?Do I have expectations of myself and others?Is my contentment conditional?Who has unconditional contentment?How can a person be contented unconditionally?Is Moksha far away?How far is Moksha?Can Moksha be attained without effort?Are others words or my mind the cause of my sorrow?When can I get a contented mind?Can a person who is atripti give tripti to others?What does "ātmāni eva ātmanā tuṣṭaḥ" mean?Can we use these 2 lakshanas to measure others?On whom should we apply this lakshana?Can we identify a jnani through ochre robes or their way of dressing?Where are the other lakshanas of Jnani given in the Bhagavad Gita?Are there any physical attributes for a jnani?Can we identify a jnani?Sloka 56 - Sthitha Prajna Lakshana 03 and 04How does a Jnani deal with his prarbda (kiṁ prabhāṣheta)?What is Prardbda karma?What is defined by our prarbda karma?What are the 3 types of karma?What type of prarbda gives us a human body?When does a jiva get a deva body?When does a jiva get an animal body?If a human body means punya and papa have kind of come out equally in this birth, what else does this mean?What gives us favorable conditions / comfortable situations in this life?What gives us unfavorable / Anishta situations in this life?Can anyone escape this law?Will a rich person not face any difficult or sorrowful situations at all in life?if shastras say that one will face favorable and unfavorable – easy and difficult situations in life – then why should we study shastras?Does prarbda decide how we face the situations?How was Rama's attitude when he was told he would be crowned tomorrow?How was Rama's attitude when he was told he needed to go to the forest?Should we ask Bhagavan to not give us difficult situations?What is the resistance to pray and avoid difficult situations?Does a jnani not face prarbda?Will a jnani not have physical ailments?Will a jnani not be criticized by others?What disturbs us the most?3. duḥkheṣhv-anudvigna-manāḥ;sukheṣhu vigata-spṛihaḥ – Unperturbed in Difficult situations;Not craving for favourable situations to continueWhat does duḥkheṣhv-anudvigna-manāḥ mean?In what kind of situations is a Jnani's mind unperturbed / not disturbed? What does sukheṣhu vigata-spṛihaḥ mean?In what kind of situations is a Jnani's mind non-craving? Does our mind feel contented after getting what we want or does it get addicted?Do all jnanis become famous?Does a jnani find happiness in what he has got?4. vīta-rāga-bhaya-krodhaḥ - Free from attachment, fear, angerWhat does vīta-rāga-bhaya-krodhaḥ mean?What is the base of Samsara?What does the desire / attachment manifest as?How is attachment related to fear and anger?Is a jnani attached to anything?Are love and attachment the same?When do we get fear?What sort of fear do we have for our body / health?When do we get anger?What happens if we do not have expectations?What does sthita-dhīr mean?
Sloka 55 - Sthitha Prajna Lakshana 01 and 02Why is the Sthitha Prajna portion important?How does a jnani's characteristics guide / help a spiritual seeker?What does "yāni sthitaprajñasya lakṣaṇāni tāni mumukṣoho sādhanāni"mean?Whose swabhaava becomes a seeker's saadana?Was a Jnani born with this swabhaava?How can this portion help in understanding where we stand in our spiritual journey?Can we use this portion to judge others?What does prajahāti mean?What does a jnani give up / renounce / sacrifice?Where does the desire reside?Will a jnani give up some desires or all desires?What does "ātmany-evātmanā tuṣhṭaḥ" mean?When is a person called Sthitha Prajna?What is he called when a person gets satisfied by himself?What are 2 lakshanas of a Jnani given here?1. Kaama Tyagaha – When all the desires leave the mindCan anyone live without any desire?Why do some people misunderstand and say Gita is not practical?Do all desires get fulfilled?Do we get upset every time a desire is not fulfilled?Are there some desires that do not upset us whether it gets fulfilled or not?How can we classify our desires?On what basis can we classify desires as binding desires and non-binding desires?Which kind of desires hold our mind?Where do desires stem from?Will a desire come from a contented mind?Where does this apurunatvam (incompleteness) come from?What happens when I take the body and mind to be "I"?What happens when I do not see myself as a complete person?Can the body and mind be fulfilled?Is there an end to desires?Will the desires stop flowing in our mind?Is disease a disease or a symptom of incompleteness?What is the cause for me to identify the self with the body and mind?What does the jnani identify the self to be?What happens to the desires in jnani's mind because he identifies with purnatvam?Will there be any binding desires in a jnani?Will desires for Jeevan vishayaha bind a jnani?What does Bhagavan mean by "ALL desires" - binding desires or non-binding desires?What will a jnani's attitude towards life and death?What can we say about a person who does not have any binding desires?Where does the desire reside?Does Atma have any desires?How can we say desire is not related to atma?Do we have any desires in our mind when we are in deep sleep?What happens to the desires when we wake up?Are the desires in the object?If desires are in the object, should they not attract everyone?Can any object in the world give us happiness or sorrow?Can we buy happiness in the shop?What is the difference between giving up and giving up completely?What is our attitude on food when we are fasting?What is our attitude on food when we are starving?What will remain in the mind if we do not give up on a desire completely?What is one who has renounced all binding desires from the mind completely called?2. Triptihi – Contentment (Mana Niraivu)What is the common doubt that people have with regard to desire and happiness?Why do some feel that we get happiness only after we desire, we struggle and we attain that goal / object?What sort of conditions do we have for us to feel contented?What happens with the conditions change?How do others' words affect our mood?Is our physical body considered external or part of our self?Is there a connection between our happiness and external situations?What happens when the connection between our happiness and the external situations are cut?When can I be the reason for contentment?
Sloka 53 - Indication when Jnana Yoga's benefit has been attainedWhat is Jnana yoga?What is Shravanam?What is Mananam?What is Nidhidhyasanam?What is the benefit of Jnana yoga?How will the mind be before Jnana?What does śhruti refer to here?What does vipratipannā mean?How does the mind get confused / disturbed by Karma kaanda of Vedas?What are the various saadanas that people give us?What happens when we listen to the various advice that people give us?How is this related to sloka 42-44?What does "Avyavasa yaatmika buddhihi" mean?How should the mind abide?What does niścalā mean?Where should the mind abide calmly?What does acalā mean?Where should the mind abide firmly?What does "samādhau" mean in this sloka?What does "yōgam" mean in this sloka?How does one feel when one attains Moksha?How should we handle the body and ahankara?If we are not able to handle the body and ahankara as instruments, can we say we have attained the benefit of Jnana?What are the 2 powerful obstacles to knowledge?How is saṃśayaḥ removed?How is viparyaḥ removed?What happens to the mind when doubt is removed?What happens to the mind when habitual error is removed?Summary of Slokas 11-53=======================Bhagavan has summarised the entire vēdic teachingAll the later chapters are expansion of topics covered hereWe should regularly read and we should be in touch with the content of this portionThe benefit that we derive from the later chapters is directly proportional to our familiarity with this portionIf this is very well studied and remembered, we will have a very strong foundation that the later 16 chapters will be very interesting and well assimilatedBhagavan introduced Jñāna as the remedy to Samsara in sloka 11From verse No.12 to 25; Bhagavan gave the ātma jñāna taught ātma lakshanasThen to get that Jñāna, purity of mind is essential and therefore he introduced & explained Karma yōga – purity of mind is nothing but Viveka, Vairagya and Mumukshutvam. This is the vēdic design of lifeThis moksha has to be attained even when we are aliveSloka 54 - Arjuna's questionWill Shastras say something that is not feasible?What does Arjuna want to know?What is the term that Arjuna has coined for Jnani?What does sthitaprajña mean?What is another word that Arjuna uses for Jnani?What does "Samādhis taha" mean?What is another term that Arjuna uses for Jnani in the second line?What does "Sthitadhīḥ mean?What does "kā bhāṣā" mean?What does Arjuna mean when he says he wants to know about characteristics of a Jnani?What does "Kim prabhāṣet" mean?What does "kim āsīt" mean?What does "kiṃ vrajeta" mean?What does Arjuna mean when he wants to know how a Jnani speaks, how does he sit and how does he walk?Why should we interpret those questions as to how a jnani faces prarbda karma, how will he be by himself (when he is alone), how does he deal with other people when using his ahankaara?How does Bhagavan answer these questions?
Sloka 52 (Contd...) - Indication when Karma Yoga can be discontinuedWhat is the indication that Karma yoga can be discontinued?How is the mind split?What is the function of the mind?What is the function of intellect?What is the inherent problem of the intellect?What is the problem that we face because of the delusion?What is the goal of life?What does delusion give us?What does Bhagavan promise us if we do Karma yoga?What will happen to our delusion if we do not live by Karma yoga?What will happen if someone gets money / power / position but without spiritual maturity?What happens when the delusion is removed?What is the first benefit of Karma yoga?What is the first of the qualifications under Saadana Chatushtaya Sampatti?What is Viveka?What is the second benefit of Karma yoga?What is Vairagya?What is the fault in the mind?What is the dosha in Buddhi and what is the Nivrtti?What is the dosha in Manaha and what is the Nivrtti?What does raaga mean in Samskritam?What is the nature of our mind?Where does the mind get attached?Can the mind be unattached at any point in time?When can we get the benefit of Viveka?Can stubbornness be called Vairagya?Can aversion be called Vairagya?Is it ok to be stubborn about good things?Is it ok to have aversion to bad things?Is Vairagya an action?Is Vairagya easy to attain? Can Vairagya be attained through tapas?If Vairagya is an attitude, can we employ it at any point of time?What is the general attitude that we have towards things in this world?Do we see the world to be a bhoga vastu?Why should I see the world as an object created by Bhagavan?What does "Bhogeshu Mohah Tyagaha" mean?What are the 2 purposes for which our sense organs / Indriyas can be used?Is it considered vairagya if we use the sense organs for both transactional purpose as well as for enjoyment?Does anatma give us happiness or sorrow?If we do not enjoy happiness from an anatma, then will it give us sorrow?If Vairagya is the goal, what is the saadana?For what attaining what does Vairagya become the means?When can we stop doing Karma yoga?Should we not go to next saadana (jnana yoga) until we get Viveka and Vairagya?Why should we listen to Shastras?Will we know the roadmap and the goals if we do not listen to shastras?What is the secondary benefit of Vedanta Shravanam?If I have a doubt on whether I have attained Vairagya then can we claim that we have attained Vairagya?Where else is the word "Nirveda" used in Shastras?When do the samskaaraas get created in our mind?What does the samskaaraas create in our mind?What do I realize when I have vairagya on all things that the world offer?Will Karma yoga help in developing vairagya on things that we are yet to experience too?What is the worth of living this life?Is there anything in this life (in this world) that is worthy enough to fulfill us?Are worldly objects required for living or not?What are the 3 benefits of Karma yoga?What should be our attitude on Anitya?What should be our attitude on Nitya Vastu?Is Karma yoga a fixed year course?Can it be fast tracked?Can we get certification in Karma yoga?What happens if we do not get the benefit of karma yoga in this life?
Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 51 - Summary of VedantaWhat is the ultimate goal of a human being?What are the 2 sadanaas?Are there multiple paths to moksha?Are the 2 sadanaas independent or linked as steps?What does buddhi-yuktā mean?What is born out of action / karma-jaṁ phalaṁ?What does "tyaktvā" mean?How does a karma yogi renounce papa and punya?What does manīṣhiṇaḥ mean?How does a person become wise?What are the 3 sadanaas in jnana yoga?What is the fruit of moksha?What does janma-bandha-vinirmuktāḥ mean?When does a jiva get freed from the bondage of birth?What does a jnani attain after the body is gone?What does padaṁ gachchhanty mean?What is the adjective that is given for the goal?What does anāmayam mean?How is the goal free from disease?What does āmayam mean?Sloka 52 - Indication when Karma Yoga What is the doubt that a sadaaka will get when practicing ?What can be the indication for me to know that I have completed karma yōga and have become qualified for jñānayōga?How will I know that I have crossed the first step and can get into the second step?What does Mōha kalilaṁ mean?Is there an ashudha and a shudha delusion?What does vyatitariśyati mean?In Where should the mist of delusion need to go beyond?What will a person attain when the mist of delusion goes beyond in the intellect?What does nirvedam mean?Where should one have vairagya on?What does śrōtavyasya śrutasya ca mean?What is the benefit of a person who is living his life according to Karma yoga?Who removes the delusion from our mind?Is the delusion in the mind inherent or acquired?When will Bhagavan not be able to remove the inherent delusion in our mind?What is the common excuse given by people?What do people mean when they say in "today's world"?What are the common things that people do under the excuse of "being smart"?What happens to those people who cheat a bit / skip their duties / gain something extra in this world of samsara?How can the antah karanam be split?What is the function of buddhi (intellect)?What is the function of manas (mind)?Where does the delusion reside?What is the swabhaava of intellect?What sort of Viveka shakti is required?Do all animals have this power of discrimination?Is the intellect capable of having disease?What is the definition of Moham?How does a person in Moham treat that which is good?Are drinks and cigarettes good for health? If not, then why do some people think it does them good?What is the biggest ashuddha that an intellect can get?How does moha affect the intellect?How does a person with Moha treat what is good for him?Will there be competition for anything that is good?What happens to a person's delusion if he lives by Karma yoga?What is a person's biggest strength?Are we able to change other people?Are we able to change our own intellect?What does the deluded intellect take the eternal to be?What does the deluded intellect take the transient to be?What is the wrong discrimination called in Samskritam?What does the avivekaha do to our understanding of atma and anatma?Why do we take the anatma to be permanent?When does money, relations, position, power, fame become our goals?Is it wrong to earn money, relations, position, power, fame? Should they be goals or means?What happens if money becomes the goal of life?When do we resort to Adharma?Will we be able to cross samsara if we keep our means as goal?What does Mrtyocha Mrtyum Gachati mean?
Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 48 (contd...) - Equanimity in Action is Karma YogaWhat does Samatvam yōgaḥ Ucyate mean?What does yōgastha kuru karmāṇi mean?On what should we abiding when performing actions?What does Saṅgam tyaktvā mean?What should we not be attached to when performing actions?What does sidhdyasidhdyōḥ bhūtvā samaḥ mean?What should be our attitude towards success or failure?How can we not have raaga dvesha on the result when we do the action with an expectation?How does the attitude of Ishvara Prasada help?Which chapter deals with the details of karma?Sloka 49 - Bhagavan's advice to follow Karma YogaWhat does dureṇa avaram mean?Which is far inferior to Karma yoga?Why is Karma yoga called Buddhi Yoga?What does buddhau śharaṇam anvichchha mean?Where does Bhagavan ask us to take refuge?What does kṛipaṇāḥ phala-hetavaḥ mean?How does Bhagavan call the people who perform actions motivated by results?Why are these people called miserable / unfortunate?Sloka 50 - End Result of Karma Yoga; Defintion of Karma YogaWhat are the 2 points made in this sloka?What does buddhiyuktaḥ mean?What dpes jahāti iha mean?What does a karma yogi get rid of, here?What does ukṛta and duṣkṛte mean?How does a karma yogi get rid of paapa and punya in this life itself?How does Karma yoga relieve us from karma bondage?What does karma yoga lifestyle directly give?What is the final destination for a person who follows karma yoga lifestyle?What is required to get moksha?What is the necessary condition to obtain jnana?What do we understand once we get jnana with respect to atma and anatma?Which of the 2 (atma or anatma) is connected to paapa and punya?What happens if we go to jnana yoga without properly completing karma yoga?stages are karma yōga ~ jñānayōga ~ jñānam~ sukruthaduṣkṛtamtyāga. Renunciation of all -transcending puṇyapāpa, which is called mōkṣaWhat does Tasmād yogāya yujyasva mean?What does Bhagavan advise us?What does yogaḥ karmasu kauśhalam mean?Where has the word Kauśhalam come from?What is the general misunderstanding if we take karma yoga to be "skill in action"?What is the nature of karma?How does karma bind us?What remains in the mind even after the activity is gone?How do likes and dislikes get created in the mind?What does this like and dislike induce us?What is Samsara?Karma - raaga-dvesha - karma - raaga-dveshaand so onWhat is chitta shuddhi?How does the karma yogi use the same action to liberate himself from bondage?What is the equivalent analogy that can be given with respect to thief & guard and snake poison & medicine?What happens to likes and dislikes if we do karma as karma yoga?Whether there will be new likes and dislikes if we perform karma as karma yoga?What will happen to the old likes and dislikes if we perform karma as karma yoga?Converting binding-karma to liberating karma is Skill in actionWhat are the 2 ways in which karma binds us?What is the adrashta phala that is created?What does the vaasanaas leave behind after we do that karma?How do people react to us? Are they predictable?What decides their reaction?How does our prarbda work? How does it decide on our transactions?What should we take these prarbda to be with respect to spirituality?What are some of the relations that we cannot escape?Should we allow the events of the day to disturb our mind?What should be our attitude towards all actions from morning till evening?Will performing actions with an attitude of karma yoga give us agitation / vikshepa / disturbance?How does karma yoga remove paapa and punya?How does karma yoga act as a shock absorber in life?What is the ultimate skill in life?
Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 48 (contd...) - Samatvam Yoga UchyateHow can all our actions be divided?What is Kartavyam jenma karma?What is Kaamya karma?Which one of these is optional?What are the 2 types of attitudes that we must have when performing karma yoga?How should Samatvam be defined with regard to performing our duties?How should Samatvam be defined with regard to results of our duties?Should we be affected by success or failure? Why not?When are we able to accept failures?What happens if I do not do my duty properly and face failure?When can we remain equipoised?Do duties and rights go together?What is our general attitude towards duties?To whom should I dedicate my duties if I expect my right over the other person's duties?Why should we dedicate duties to Ishvara and not an individual?What are the 3 issues when we expect our rights from the person to whom we have delivered our duties?Is every reciprocal arrangement equal? In a teacher-student relationship is the reciprocal arrangement equal?Is every reciprocal arrangement honoured?Does everyone show gratitude?How will Ishvara ensure I get my right?What is our fault when it comes to expecting return of favour or gratitude from the person to whom we performed our duty?Why is it considered business, if we do our duty expecting something in return?DEFINITION OF KARMA YOGAOh Ishvara, let me do my duty – whatever my prarbda generates / creates, as your command (as Ishvara Arpana), to my fullest potential with full commitment, without complaint or grumble, not allowing my likes and dislikes to interfere; taking both success & failure in my stride; without any expectation of return benefit or even gratitude from the other person – you please give me what I require at the time I require - I take it as your prasadaHow do we cultivate this habit?When should we pause & reflect?What should we do whenever we have an expectation; whenever our mind gets upset / distressed / sad; whenever we feel lazy; whenever we feel indifferent; whenever we feel like escaping; whenever we want to give an excuse?What are the 3 attitudes that one must have when performing duties?What is Kaamya karma?What should be our attitude towards this desire driven actions?Are we supposed to have any expectations on the result of the actions?What should be our attitude towards the result of the actions?What is the difference between enjoying something as prasada and enjoying something as sensory pleasure?Why is there a difference in our attitude and approach with the food served in temple and the food served in restaurant?What is the significance of animal sacrifice in rituals?How do Shashtras help bring in changes in the mindset of people who are at the lowest level of spiritual structure?What happens if we start dedicating (and taking as Ishvara Prasada) all our actions driven out of desires?Why do we have so many festivals in our religion?What happens to our animal instincts if we start taking all outcomes as Ishvara Prasada?
Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 47 (contd...) - Principle of Karma YogaWhy should one not have desires in mind when performing duties?What happens when we perform an action with desire in mind?Does Papa & Punya create bondage?What happens when we perform our duties with no desires in mind?What is the first advice that Bhagavan gives in the second line of the sloka?When Bhagavan advises us not to be the cause of karma phala, how do we create the karma phala?What happens if we perform our duty with a sankalpa out of some desire?What is the second piece of advice that Bhagavan gives in the second line of the sloka?Why can there be a tendency to drop actions?What happens if we drop actions before mental purity?Would we be able to give up the sukha buddhi on vishaya when we drop the vishaya?Is being in Solitude easy?Summary of Facts1. We have a choice over all actions2. Once the action is completed, there is no right on the result of the action3. Even though there is no choice on the result, the bhavana while doing the action plus the adrashta punya papa collected over various jenmas will determine the fruit of that action4. If we decide to stay away from action because we cannot determine the result completely, Bhagavan says do not resort to inactionWhy are these facts important to know?What is the second way that this sloka can be interpreted?What is the definition of Saatvic tyaga?What happens if we sacrifice or renounce something without a steady sattva guna?What is the disadvantage of inaction?What is the advantage of action?Is withdrawal important?Which ashrama is pravrtti marga and which ashrama is Nivritti marga?What happens if we go directly to Sannyasa?Sloka 48 - Equanimity is called Karma YogaWhat is the definition of Karma yoga in this sloka?What are the 2 types of attitudes that we must have when performing karma yoga?How can all our actions be divided?What is Kartavyam jenma karma?What is Kaamya karma?Which one of these is optional?On what basis are our duties defined?Do we require someone to teach us on duties? What happens if we fail to do our duty?Do we like to perform all duties?What prevents us from performing some of the duties?What happens if our raga-dvesha gets in the way?How should Samatvam be defined with regard to performing our duties?When are we eager to perform some duties?When do we generally drop / skip duties?How should Samatvam be defined with regard to results of our duties?Should we take responsibility for the results of our duties?Why would the outcome of the action go against the intent of action?Should we be affected by success or failure? Why not?
Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 46 (Contd...) - Jnana gives immense & infinite happinessDoes a jnani need karma kanda of Vedas? If not, why?What example does Bhagavan give to explain that?Will a small pond of water be useful for any person who has access to a large ocean like body of fresh water?What utility will karma kanda of vedas provide to a jnani?Will Karma yoga be of any utility to a jnani?Does a spiritual seeker need karma kanda of vedas?Does a spiritual seeker need karma yoga?What does "Yāvān artah udapāne" mean?What does "sarvataḥ saṃplutodake" mean?How much benefit is available in a pond when there is a flood everywhere?What does "Tāvān Sarveṣu vedeṣu" mean?What does "vijānataḥ brāhmaṇasya" mean?How much benefit the entire vedas can provide a "wise brahmin"?What term is used to call a person who has done jnana yoga sadana in this sloka?What term is used to call a person who is in sattva guna in this sloka?Who is a brahmin according to Upanishads?What is one who lives a disciplined life according to Vedas and to understand Vedas called?From what standpoint does the term brahmana have to be taken in jnana kanda and from what standpoint in karma kanda?What term is used in this sloka to denote a person who has lived the life of karma yōga?Why does the Karma kanda not be of any use to a vijānataḥ?Does Karma kanda and karma yoga help a spiritual seeker?Sloka 47 - Principle of Karma YogaHow can this sloka be interpreted?What are the 2 types of action that we perform?Does Karma yoga talk about action or attitude?Can we call any specific action karma yoga sadana?Are there any actions that are not allowed in Karma yoga?Why is karma yoga called "buddhih yōga"?Why is it necessary to have knowledge about how the world operates?What can convince ourselves to have the right attitude?How is understanding of a person or object related to the attitude?How is devotion related to knowledge of Ishvara?Do we have a choice based on our actions?Does Bhagavan say we have a choice over results?What is the FACT of life? Do we even have a choice once we have performed the action?Can we say "I did the job with a particular desire in mind and hence the result should be as per my desire."?Can we alter the course of the result?What is the expectation that we have of the result and why is it wrong?What are the 3 choices of action?What does "Kartum shakyam", "Akartum shakyam", "Anyata kartum shakyam" mean?Why should we be judicious and use our intelligence before acting?Can we have an expectation of the results?Is it right to get a doubt that if I have a right to action but not to results, why should I even act?What are the 2 outcomes to any action?Is adrashta phalam visible?What are punya and papa?When we do "dānam" to someone, what is the drshta and the adrashta phalam?When we steal something from others, what is the drshta and the adrashta phalam?How does the invisible bhaavana (attitude) determine the invisible adrashta phalam?If someone is doing charity work, will we know the attitude or the motive behind it? If two people use the knife and a life is lost in both cases, how come one gets punya and the other papa?If results depend on adrashta bhāvana then why are there disparities between the attitude and the results for an action?When the results of an action come, does it not come ONLY based on the attitude shown when performing that action, or does it also depend on the mixture of the papa and punya that we had accumulated over so many previous actions?Why does even when we put a lot of effort and have good attitude, the result does not match the effort and the attitude?And why do sometimes we put in a little effort and yet we get good results?What should our position be when we do not have a choice or where there is no privilege?Why should we not let our attitude be driven by our desires, especially when the attitude decides the results?
Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 45 (Contd...) - Method to get clarity on the goal and the path2. (Contd...) Nirdvandvaḥ (bhava)Is there anyone in the world who will always have favourable situations?To act Equi-poised, is it enough if we understand it?Will understanding alone give the benefit?What should our attitude be when we face small difficulties?Is there anyone who will have no criticizers? What about a monk in the forest?What are the 3 different types of relationships that any person will have?What are the 2 conflicting views we will receive when we talk well / keep quiet?Why is Rama a great example of being equipoised?Will we be able to sleep when we are excited or when we feel cheated?3. Nityasatvasthaḥ (bhava) - (Be) ever established in SattvagunaHow can I get over the pairs of opposites?Will the mind always be in only 1 guna?When is the ideal time for the mind to be in Sattva?What is Sattva guna characteristics?What are the indications when we make right judgements or have clear discriminative power?What are the indications when we are not deluded and think rationally?What are the indications when we are calm and patient?How is being patient help in facing pairs of opposites?What is the benefit of being in Sattva guna?What is the benefit if we treat the pairs of opposites equally and if we have been able to overcome desires?How to be in Sattva guna?4. Niryōgakṣemaḥ (bhava) - (Be) free from (the concern for) acquisition and preservationWhat does Aprāpthasya Prāpthi mean?What does Prāpthasya Rakṣaṇam mean?What are the basic things that we require for survival?Why do some people acquire and accumulate whatever they find?Why do some people have 3 or 4 things of the same type?Why do some people keep certain things even though they may not be of any use now?What happens when latest designs or latest models of mobile phones, sarees, jewelry come out?What happens if we are always focused on acquiring and preserving things?What will be the concern of the things that we have accumulated as we grow old?What promise does Bhagavan make to his true devotee?What guna should one be in for acquiring and accumulating things?If one tries to avoid Rajo guna, to which guna will that person fall?5. ātmavān bhava - (Be) mindfulWhy should one be alert?What is the meaning that Śankarācārya gives?What does apramattaḥ bhava mean?How can one not be careless?What guna should one not be in to be alert?What are the characteristics of Tamo guna?What does Laziness, Delusion, Carelessness indicate?The steps that Bhagavan has given:1. ātmavānbhava -Be Free from Tamo Guna. Be alert2. niryōgakṣemaḥbhava –Be free from Rajo Guna. Be free from (the concern for acquisition and preservation. Then what?3. nityasatvasthaḥ(bhava) (Be) ever established in Sattvaguna. Only after one becomes a jnani, a person crosses even sattva guna. Until then the seeker has to be in sattva. If we were in sattva guna, how would that person be?4. nirdvandvaḥbhava Be free from (the hold of) the pairs of opposites. If we had crossed the pairs of opposites5. Nistraiguṇyōbhava means niṣkāmobhava. We would have overcome desires. There would be no demands from us. Whatever life has to offer, we will accept that and lead our life. If we do that, what will we getVyavasyātmikabuddhi –We will have clarity on Sadyamand Sādana. And we will follow the sādanas, reach the sadyamand attain mokshaEven if we are not able to be fully on every sādana, we should follow at least a little bit of eachSloka 46 - Karma Yoga will lead to MokshaWhat is the essence of this sloka?How does Bhagavan articulate that?Will the karma kanda of the vedas be of any use to a person who has attained jnana?What would have a karma yogi be sacrificing until he attains jnana?How will that sacrifice be seen by others?Why do many people look at Sannyasis with pity?What does a person attain when he sacrifices small pleasures?
Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 42-44 (Contd...) - Karmi gets enamored by MaterialistsWhat are the 3 words that Bhagavan uses to describe the words they speak?1. yām imāṃ puṣpitāṃ vācam - such flowery wordsWhat does "yām imāṃ puṣpitāṃ vācam" mean?What is the analogy of the words they speak with a tree?How do they seduce us?2. jenma karma phala pradām - which lead to further birthsWhat does "jenma karma phala pradām" mean?What sloka from Bhaja Govindam talk about "Punarapi jananaṃ punarapi maraṇaṃ"?3. kriya viśeṣa bahulām - full of specific ritesWhat does "kriya viśeṣa bahulām" mean?What do they talk about?What are the examples of projects that these people talk about?What will be the casualty because of all these talks?Where will it all lead to?What is the underlying reason for which these words are spoken?What does "bhoga iśvarya gatim prati" mean?What do these people have their goals as?Why is "bhōgaisvarya" the same as arta-kāma puruṣārtha?Is money and pleasure a means for them or their goal?Will the Vivekis be enamored by their words?What happens to the Avivekis?What are these Avivekis attached to?What happens to their minds when they listen to these words?What does "Apahṛta cetasāṃ" mean?What happens when the mind gets carried away?What happens to the sense of conscience, sense of discrimination, sense of propriety, sense of honesty, sense of justice?What is the formula for happiness in terms of desires?What happens to the desires in their mind?Will they seek only legitimate method of fulfilling them?Will clear understanding take place in their mind?Do such people have clarity in terms of their goals?What is the meaning of "Samādhi" in this sloka?Do they have clarity on lakshya and sādana?Sloka 45 - Method to get clarity on the goal and the pathIs desire alone enough to have "vyavasāyātmikā buddhiḥ"?How many sādanas is Bhagavan giving here to attain vyavasāyātmikā buddhiḥ?What is required for anyone to follow a sādana?What is the information that Bhagavan is giving about Vedas?What does the word "traiguṇya viṣayāḥ" mean?Which part of Vedas are referred here when Bhagavan says "vedāḥ" here?How does "traiguṇyam" mean samsara?What are the 3 gunas?Which chapter is dedicated to these 3 gunas?What is Sattva guna about?What is Rajo guna about?What is Tamo guna about?Is our mind a mixture of 3?Will it have a predominant guna at any point in time?Which is the lowly guna? Which is the highest among the 3?Can someone move from Tamo guna to Sattva guna directly?Does all 3 gunas bind us?Which guna leads us to laziness, sleep, delusion?Which guna leads us to desire, action, jealousy?Which guna leads us to peace, knowledge, calmness?When the vedas deal with these 3 gunas what happens to our desires?1. Nistraiguṇyō bhavaWhat is the first of the 5 sadanas that Bhagavan advises?What is "nistraiguṇyō bhava" mean?What is "niṣkāmo bhava" mean?What is Vairagya?How can we get Vairagya?What reasons should we bring to our mind to be able to get that virtue?Is the world permanent or impermanent?Even if the world is impermanent, is it not giving me enjoyment?Is the enjoyment fulfilling or leaves me more craving?Even if it does not satisfy me completely, is it without any sorrow?Is the world happiness only mixed with sorrow?Can one get Vairagya easily?Can one have vairagya on everything?What should our attitude towards pleasure and comfort be?Should we have a lot of demands in our life?Do we look for comfort even during pilgrimage?What should be our attitude towards discomfort?Should we be enslaved to comforts?2. Nirdvandvaḥ (bhava)What does dvandva mean?What is the meaning of māna-apamānah, lābhanaṣṭa, jayā-apajaya?What does "nirdvandvaḥ" mean?What is the definition of this world?What does "dwandatmaka jagat" mean?How do we need to treat desireless situations?What does be equi-poised mean?What is irritation? How is it related to Samsara?
Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 41 - Karma yogi is single mindedHow is Karma yogi's mind and attitude?What does the word "vyavasāyātmikā" mean?What is the Karma yogi determined on?What is a Karma Yogi's singular goal?Do people know the real purpose of life?What do most people take it to be their goals?How does life's goals for most people change with their age?What is the path / sādana that a Karma yogi knows for attaining the ultimate goal?What goals do non-Karma yogis have?Why are these goals changing?Why are these goals so many?Why does a Karma yogi have only 1 goal according to Adi Sankara?From where has Karma Yogi identified the goal to be moksha?What should be the pramana / source of knowledge that one must use to identify life's goal?Why do people who come to spirituality get confused about the goal and sadana?Where does a confused person end up at the end of a spiritual quest?What are the common questions that people have with regard to religion & culture?Sloka 42-44 - Karmi gets enamored by MaterialistsWhy does a person not have a straight singular focused goal?What do the different sense organs mean for?What is the meaning of "Stotrasya bhooshanam Sastram"?Why do people get misled?Who misleads them?Who is to be blamed?Why do people get deluded?What does bhogaiśvaryam mean?What does Bhagavan call the misleaders?What are the 5 adjectives that Bhagavan uses for these misleaders?1. avipaścitaḥ-Unintelligent people who believe in materialistic successWhat does "avipaścitaḥ" mean?Why does Bhagavan call them unintelligent ones?What is success according to them?What are these people's goals? What should be our takeaway when we listen to this portion?2. vēdavādaratāḥ-Enamored by Karma Kanda; focusing on arthakāmaWhat does "Vēdavādaratāḥ" mean?Which portion of Vedas are they enamored by?Why do they chant mantras, do pooja, perform rituals, go for pilgrimage?What does Avahanti Homa ask for?Does vedas talk about material accomplishments alone?Which portion of the vedas will give us emotional & spiritual growth?What does rājasa karma ratāḥ, sakāma karma ratāḥ mean?3. nānyadastītivādinaḥ-Who argues there is nothing else than enjoymentWhat does "na asti anyat, vādinaḥ iti" mean?What do these people argue about?What is there apart from materialism?How interested are these people when we talk about morality, ethics, Ishvara, religion, service etc?What is their motto in life/?How does Upanishad call them?What does "pramūḍhaḥ" mean?4. kāmātmānaḥ-who are full of desiresWhat does "kāmātmānaḥ" mean?What is these people embodiments of?What do these people think constantly?5. svargaparāḥ-who believe in heaven as the ultimate goalWhat does "svargaparāḥ" mean?Why do they want to go to heaven?Is there a permanent heaven?Is there a permanent hell?How does Bhagavan describe the words they speak?What does "Pravadanti" mean?What do they say?What kind of philosophy do these people spread?What happens when we try to convert them?Which wins more often in the minds of people - materialism or Spiritualism?Which is more attractive - Brahman or Maya?What are the 3 words that Bhagavan uses to describe the words they speak?1. yām imāṃ puṣpitāṃ vācam - such flowery wordsWhat does "yām imāṃ puṣpitāṃ vācam" mean?What is the analogy of the words they speak with a tree?How are the words they speak - are they attractive / tempting / seducing?How do they seduce us?2. jenma karma phala pradām - which lead to further birthsWhat does "jenma karma phala pradām" mean?What sloka from Bhaja Govindam talk about "Punarapi jananaṃ punarapi maraṇaṃ"?
Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 39 (Contd...) - Karma yoga liberates a person from BondageWhat is the meaning of Karma yoga?What are the different spirtiual sadanas that we are generally aware of?What is Karma yoga?How can we do spiritual sadana without performing the general known sadanas like prayer, vratha, nama japa etc?Does karma bind us or free us by nature?How does Karma bind a jiva?What does Bhagavan say here?What does Karma yoga liberate us from?What does the word "karmbandham" mean?What does karma yoga liberate us from?What are the various kinds of emotional problems?Sloka 40 - Differences between Karma and Karma yogaWhere does Bhagavan give the glory of Karma yoga?In which slokas does Bhagavan give the lakshana / definition of Karma yoga?In which chapters does Bhagavan deal extensively on Karma Yoga?What is the benefit of Karma Yoga?How do we generally able to appreciate a thing over the other?How does advertisement use the method of comparison to highlight the product features and benefits?If Karma yoga is proper action with proper attitude, will there be unacceptable actions?What is the first difference between Karma and Karma yoga?What does "asti na abhikrama nāśaḥ" mean?Why is there no failure in karma Yoga?What are the possible outcomes for any karma?Why could some actions result in success and some result in failure?How is Karma yoga always result in success?What is the outcome expected in Karma yoga?Will the outcome of the action have any effect on the outcome of Karma yoga?Is it possible for someone to do good and yet get a bad name?What happens if we do an action driven out of desire and expectations?What is the second difference between Karma and Karma yoga?What does "vidhyatē na pratyavāyaḥ" mean?Why is there no adverse result / vipareeta phalam in the case of Karma Yoga?What does Adi Sankara give as an example to illustrate adverse effect?What sort of side effects we will get when taking medicine?What could be the reason if our action done with proper intent gives an adverse result for the person intended? Do we need to take guilt there? What do we incur, if we do any pooja or yajna for kāmyartha (for fulfilling desires) and do not follow the vidhis (rules) to the dot?What is the third difference between Karma and Karma yoga?What does "api svalpam asya dharmasya" mean?How does Karma Yoga give benefit to the extent the action is performed?What is the example that can be given to illustrate that we do not get any benefit until the entire work is completed?What does Karma Yoga protect one from?Which is the greates fear, according to Adi Sankara?What is the other way to look at fear?Will there be any fear of failure when we do Karma yoga?Will there be any fear for adverse result when we do karma yoga?Will there be any fear for incompleteness when we do karma yoga?Will a person be able to do a job better with no anxiety or with passion?When we do any action ourt of desire, what is the other emotion that goes along with it that hinders us from performing well?What is Bhagavan doing right now with regards to Karma Yoga?Why is Bhagavan advertising Karma Yoga?Why is Bhagavan making us curious?How does conviction help us to stay in the path?
Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 36 - Enemies will ridicule if you withdraw from the warWhat does the word ahitāḥ mean?What will the enemies speak?What does the word avācyavādān mean?Why will the enemies speak unmentionable words?What does the word nindantaḥ mean?What will the enemies ridicule Arjuna for?What does the word apamānam mean?What is more painful than death?How did Kaikeyi manage to get Dasharatha's agree to keep his promise?Why Kamsa does not kill Devaki when the aśarīri tells that Dēvaki's 8th son will be his killer?What is the weakness of a kṣatriyā?Sloka 37 - Both outcomes are favourableWhat are the 2 possibilities for Arjuna in this war?Why does Bhagavan say that either way Arjuna stands to gain?Why will Arjuna go to heaven if he gets killed in this war?What will Arjuna enjoy if he remains victorious?What does Bhagavan want Arjuna to do?What resolve does Arjuna need to make before getting up?What do we need to understand whenever we see yudhascha?Why are some duties pleasant and some duties unpleasant?Sloka 01-37 SummaryWhat was Arjuna suffering from?What was the result of his delusion?What are the 2 things that Bhagavan had to do with regard to Arjuna?What are the 3 levels of dṛṣṭi that Bhagavan gives Arjuna for removing his sorrow and make him fight?Why should Arjuna not feel sorrow from adhyātmika dṛṣṭi?Why should Arjuna not feel sorrow from dhārmica dṛṣṭi?Why should Arjuna fight the war from loukika dṛṣṭi?Sloka 38 - How not to incur sin when performing duties?Why is this a transition sloka?Which slokas dealt with jñāna yōga or saṅkya yōga?In which portion of vedas can one find religion?In which portion of vedas can one find philosophy?What gives us the right way of life?What gives us the right view of life?What is the difference between Vēdā antha and Vēdā poorva?Where did Bhagavan teach Brahma śāstram and where will Bhagavan be teaching Dharma śāstram?Why is this sloka called the seed of Karma yoga?What does Bhagavan explain in this sloka?What should be the attitude when performing one's duties?What is other name of Buddhi Yōga?What is Karma yoga?What should be the attitude that one must have when performing duties?How should one treat sukha & duḥkha, lābha & alābha, jaya & ajaya?How is happiness related to gain and how is gain related to victory?How is defeat related to loss and how is loss related to sorrow?Will one incur sin if he treats all the pairs of opposites alike?What does Rāga devshou akrtva mean?What happens when one does not have attachment on victory / gain / happiness?What happens when one does not have aversion towards defeat / loss / sorrow?What is the essence of Karma yoga?Sloka 39 - Introduction to Karma YogaWhy does Bhagavan want to show division of topics?Why is Bhagavan going to talk about Karma Yoga?Why did Bhagavan give Jñāna Yōga first?How are Shastras taught?What is upkrama and upasamhara?What is other name for sāṅkhyam?Can everyone directly get ātma jñāna and be ever happy?What are the necessary qualifications for getting ātma jñāna?Can a patient who needs operation be operated without any checks?What does one need to do for the operation to succeed?What helps a person to get prepared to receive ātma jñāna?What are the 4 fold qualifications / Sādana Chatushtaya Sampithihi?What is the most important & difficult qualification among the four?What do we need to do get Vairagya?What is easiest among the four?How does one get Viveka?When will Viveka give its benefit?Where will Karma yōga lead us to?Where will Jñāna yōga lead us to?What is impossible without Karma yoga?What is incomplete without Jñāna yōga?What is the misconception in Kali Yuga?Can some other yoga other than jñāna yōga give liberation?If jñāna yōga is difficult in kali yuga, what should we do?What is Bhagavan telling Arjuna here?
Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 32 - Righteous war is a gateway to HeavenWhat does Bhagavan say that Arjuna has got a chance?What does the word yadṛcchayā mean?What does the word apāvṛtam mean?What does the war open up for Arjuna?Why does Bhagavan say it opens up the swarga loka for Arjuna?What sort of war is this according to Bhagavan in this sloka?What sort of kshatriyas get this opportunity to participate in a dharma yuddha?When does a kshatriya get heaven according to dharma shastra?How can sukhinaḥ be interpreted in this sloka?Sloka 33 - Foresaking Swadharma will incur sinWhat if Arjuna argues I am not interested in heaven, What is Bhagavan's counter argument?What are the 2 doshas that Arjuna will get as a result of not doing his swadharma (fighting this war)?What is the Iha loka dukham that Arjuna will get?What is the Para loka dukham that Arjuna will get?What does the word saṅgrāmaṃ mean in this sloka?What are the consequences if Arjuna does not fight this war?What will Arjuna lose in this world if he does not fight?What will Arjuna incur if he does not fight?How many categories can we divide Pāpam on the basis of doing or not doing action?What is Commission type of papa?What is Omission type of papa?What does Niṣiddaḥ karaṇam mean?What does Vihithaa akaraṇam mean?What verses in Siva Manasa Puja help us pray for forgiveness for these 2 types of papa?What is the consequence of papa?How does Bhagavan confirm both swarga and naraka in these 2 slokas (32 & 33)?What is the pramana for Swarga and Naraka?Are they drshta or Adrshta?Which fear makes people to lead a life of Dharma?Sloka 34 - Infamy is worse than death for a KshatriyaAfter talking from Dharma-Adharma drishti, in what angle does Bhagavan talk to Arjuna now?Which loss is difficult to accept for a kshatriya?What is the weakness of a Kshatriya?What do politicians and rulers do to retain their name and fame?What do we do to retain our name even after our life?Do people lead a life of Dharma because the shastras say so or do so because they will lose their name?What was Arjuna famous for?Why was Thayumaanavar a mahatama?What is more intoxicating than liquor?Will Arjuna get temporary or permanent infamy by walking away from the war?What does sambhāvitasya mean?What is worth than death?Sloka 35 - Arjuna's reputation with other warriorsWhat is the reason that people will think that Arjuna had for not fighting the war?Will the great warriors think that Arjun withdrew out of compassion and respect or out of fear?What will Arjuna's fame come to from the same people who had praised Arjuna earlier?
Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 30 - Indestructible Atma is present in all bodiesHow does Bhagavan conclude the section on Atma-Anatma vichara?Why should one not grieve from atma standpoint?Why should one not grieve from Anatma standpoint?What are the 3 things that a body is subject to?What should we able to accept regarding the body?Why did Parikshit felt happy when he knew that he had 7 days to live?What is the meaning of the word avadhyaḥ?Which is mortal and which is immortal?Whose death should one not grieve over?Whose mortality are we willing to accept?Will grief change the fact that everyone has to die one day?In which sloka did ātma vichara conclude?In which sloka did Anātma vichara conclude?Sloka 31 - SwaDharma supercedes Saamanya DharmaWhat is the topic that Bhagavan is going to address in slokas 31 to 34?What is the doubt that Bhagavan expects Arjuna to have?Why would Arjuna think it is Adharma to kill his Guru and his grand father?What is Saamanya Dharma?Does Saamanya Dharma depend on varna or ashrama or gender?What is the thumb rule for Saamanya Dharma?What are the 5 yamās and the 5 niyamās?What is ahiṁsa?What is satyam?What is āstheyam?What is brahmacharyam?What is aparigraham?What is śaucam?What is santoṣam?What is tapaḥ?What is Svādhyaya?What is īśvara praṇidhānā?What is Swadharma or Visesha Dharma?Does each ashrama has the same visesha dharma?Does each varna has the same visesha dharma?What happens if there is a conflict between Saamanya and Visesha Dharma? Which takes precedence?Can a Brahmana take up arms and fight?Why did Vishwamitra come to Dasaratha and sought Rama and Lakshmana to kill the demons?What is a Kshatriya duty?What is āpaddharmaḥ?If there is a general rule, can there be exceptions?What is utsargaḥ and What is apavādaḥ?What is the meaning of Kshatriya?How does a Kshatriya protect the society from Dharma?Is killing people allowed according to Shastras? If so by who and when?What is the analogy that can be given to removing cancerous people from the society?What does Bhagavan advice Arjuna with regards to his duty (in the first line)?Why does Bhagavan say that Arjuna should not waver from his duty (in the second line)?Is there anything greater than a Dharma Yuddh (righteous war) for a Kshatriya (warrior)?What is the meaning of Shreyas here?What does a person get by following his swadharma?Can a Sannyasi beat back a person who is giving him Himsa?Should a Kshatriya interfere when a Sannyasi gets beaten up?Who will get Chitta shuddhi (pure mind) by not beating the person who is giving Himsa?Who will get Chitta shuddhi (pure mind) by beating the person who is giving Himsa?Who will get papa (sin) by beating the person who is giving Himsa?Who will get papa (sin) by not beating the person who is giving Himsa?
Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 29 (Contd...) - Vedantic Study and PunyaHow is Ātma jñānam as a subject āścaryam?How is Ātma jñānam as the end to our search an āścaryam?How is the way Ātma jñānam as taught an āścaryam? How is the method of understanding Ātma jñānam an āścaryam?Do everyone come for Vedantic study?What is the role of punya in Vedantic Study?Why do "Some never understand this atma, in spite of hearing"?Can Ātma jñāna be attained through Ishvara Sharanagti?Can Ātma jñāna be attained through Meditation?Can Ātma jñāna be attained through Social Service?Can Ātma jñāna be attained through Naama Sankeertanam?Can Ātma jñāna be attained without Self Effort?Can Ātma jñāna be attained through Ishvara Sharanagti?What does one need to understand Ātma Tattva?If one does not have sādana chatushtaya sampathi now, can he do shravanam now?Why is Shravanam important?What will Shravanam give a student who does not have sādana chatushtaya sampathi?What are the 2 benefits of Shravanam?Is Shravanam alone enough for Ātma jñāna?How much time does one need to spend on Shravanam?What happens when we listen to the teachings again?How many times does one need to listen to the lectures?Whom should we blame if one is not able to get the full benefit of listening to shastras?How is Ātma jñāna different from other subjects?Why does Bhagavan call Ātma jñāna as Raja Vidya and Raja Guhya?Why is Ātma jñāna a secret?Is Shravanam difficult or to get qualification difficult?What happens when we keep listening to lectures?Why does some not able to understand in spite of listening?