The Bhagavad Gita: A Verse Translation

by Geoffrey Parrinder

Overview

‘As with so many of his books, Parrinder’s translation (and brief commentary) on the Gita has stood the test of time ... the beginner will find this book the best translation, and even adepts cannot help but benefit from Parrinder’s work. ’Martin Forward, Epworth Review

The Bhagavad Gita is one of the most widely read Hindu scriptures in the Western world. Taking the form of a dialogue between the warrior Arjuna and the divine Krishna on the eve of battle, it is concerned with the most profound aspects of social and religious duty, and the relationship of human beings to God. In its eighteen short chapters it explores the spiritual struggle of the human soul and the search for both the true self and eternal life, culminating in an unparalleled vision of God the omnipotent.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781851689880
Publisher:	Oneworld Publications
Publication date:	08/01/2013
Edition description:	Revised Edition
Pages:	160
Product dimensions:	5.00(w) x 7.70(h) x 0.60(d)

About the Author

Geoffrey Parrinder is Professor Emeritus of the Comparative Study of Religions at the University of London. After his ordination as a Methodist Minister, he spent twenty years teaching in West Africa and studying African religions. He has written many highly successful books that have been translated into twelve languages, and has travelled widely, lecturing on the comparative study of religions in Australia, America, India, Japan and at Oxford.

Table of Contents

Introduction vii

The Bhagavad Gita 1

1 Arjuna's Despair 3

2 Theory 13

3 Action 27

4 Wisdom 35

5 Renunciation and Action 43

6 Meditation 49

7 Theoretical and Practical Wisdom 59

8 The Imperishable Brahman 65

9 Royal Knowledge and Royal Mystery 71

10 Pervading Power 77

11 The Vision of the Cosmic Form 85

12 Loving Devotion 95

13 Distinction of Field and Field-knower 99

14 Distinction of the Three Qualities 105

15 The Supreme Spirit 111

16 Distinction of Divine and Demonic States 115

17 Distinction of Three Kinds of Faith 121

18 Renunciation and Salvation 127

Appendix 141

Bibliography 147