This video introduces Bhagavad-gita and discusses its context in the Mahābhārata. It gives the history of the conflict between the Kurus and Pāṇḍavas. The opening scene and Arjuna's arguments for quitting the battle are also described, along with the benefits of studying and applying Bhagavad-gītā.

Chapter 2 opens with Arjuna surrendering to Krsna for instruction. Accepting a bona fide spiritual master and following his instructions is the solution to all problems. One must learn the science of the soul and the practice of devotional service from a self-realized soul.

The next major topic in Chapter 2 is how to recognize a self-realized soul. Arjuna asks about the external qualities of the self-realized soul, but Krsna replies with a description of his state of consciousness. The self-realized soul is detached from material sense gratification because he is relishing spiritual pleasure within.

The 3rd chapter opens with a question from Arjuna: which is better, intelligence or devotional work? Krsna recognizes the path of knowledge but in the end, karma-yoga, or working by spiritual principles and renouncing the fruits is better because it allows us to transcend the influence of karma.

This section begins Chapter 4. Perfect spiritual knowledge descends from God through the disciplic succession of self-realized Masters. If we sincerely attempt to understand the nature and activities of the Lord, we are released from material existence. By dedicating the results of our work to the glory of God, we attain complete freedom from karmic reaction.

This section completes Chapter 4, which reveals the mechanism of freedom from karma by practicing karma-yoga. Because the Lord is on the transcendental platform, work done for His benefit does not result in karmic bondage. Sacrifice thus means to work in the material world, but offer the results to the Lord through the bona fide spiritual master. Vedic sacrifice begins by approaching a guru, surrendering to him, offering service and making relevant inquiries.

Part of the illusion of material existence is that we are the doers and enjoyers of our work and other activities. This misconception makes us subject to the law of karma or cause and effect. We can free ourselves from karmic reaction by working in devotion and giving up the results of our work in sacrifice to the Lord.

Reference material for the Bhagavad-gita course videos from

Bhagavad-gita As It Is

Translation and Commentary by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
(Spiritual Master Teacher of David Bruce Hughes)

Here is a comprehensive study guide for the Introduction to Śrila Prabhupāda's Bhagavad gītā As It Is. This brilliant introductory essay is broken down into eighteen parts and commented upon, to help the beginning student assimilate the deep purport of this packed essay.