Introduction
The Bhagavad Gita, also known as the “Song of God,” is a sacred Hindu scripture that provides eternal knowledge about the truths of life and offers profound wisdom on life, duty, and spirituality.
This scripture is the most important part of the Mahabharata and has influenced millions of people for generations. This article explores the history and origin of the Bhagavad Gita, highlighting its enduring significance and impact throughout the ages.
What is the Bhagavad Gita?
The meaning of the Bhagavad Gita is derived from the Sanskrit language, where “Bhagavad” means “Divine” and “Gita” means “Song.” It consists of 700 verses (Shlokas) and 18 chapters (Adhyayas) and is the most important part of the great Hindu epic, the Mahabharata, specifically in the Bhishma Parva (Chapters 23-40).
This scripture is a deep conversation between Lord Krishna and Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, where Arjuna is confused and morally troubled about fighting his own family in war. Shri Krishna, serving as his divine charioteer, imparts wisdom on Dharma (duty), Karma (action), and Bhakti (devotion).
History and Origin of Bhagavad Gita
Sometimes it is good to ‘get back to basics’ on the philosophy of Bhagavad Gita. So I think a good place to start is the history of Bhagavad Gita. What is the Gita, where did it come from and how old is it?
The historical background of the Bhagavad Gita dates back to ancient India, around 5,000 years ago. The exact time when the Bhagavad Gita was first written is still debated, but scholars generally believe it was written between the 5th and 2nd century BCE, during the composition of the Mahabharata.
During this period, many philosophical schools of thought were emerging in ancient India, including Buddhism, Jainism, and various schools of Hinduism, all of which sought to answer questions about the nature of the self, the divine, and the universe. The Bhagavad Gita was compiled by Sage Vyasa, who is also credited with composing the Mahabharata.
The Setting of the Bhagavad Gita
The Gita is set on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, where the Pandavas and Kauravas were preparing for the war. Before the battle started, Arjuna, a very powerful warrior, was very troubled and was shying away from fighting the war. Then Shri Krishna who was Arjuna’s companion, Krishna’s teachings in the Bhagavad Gita guide him towards his Dharma (duty) and inner strength.
Who Wrote the Bhagavad Gita?
The Bhagavad Gita is traditionally believed to have been compiled by Sage Vyasa, the legendary sage who composed the Mahabharata. It is said that Sage Vyasa narrated the summary of the Bhagavad Gita to Lord Ganesha, who then wrote it down in the form of a book.
Although Vyasa compiled it, the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita is believed to have come directly from Lord Krishna as divine knowledge for humanity.
Why Was the Bhagavad Gita Created?
The Bhagavad Gita was created to provide guidance on moral dilemmas, self-realization, and the nature of duty. The Bhagavad Gita is an answer—an answer to all the questions that arise in our mind in daily basis, in every difficult situation.
It was intended to help people overcome confusion, fear, and uncertainty in life by cultivating the habits of righteousness (Dharma), devotion (Bhakti), and selfless action (Karma Yoga).
Relevance of the Bhagavad Gita lessons in today’s world: Many of its teachings remain applicable in modern life, helping individuals with decision-making, stress management, and refining their personal growth.
Key Teachings of the Bhagavad Gita
1. Karma Yoga (Path of Action)
कर्मण्येवाधिकारस्ते मा फलेषु कदाचन।
मा कर्मफलहेतुर्भूर्मा ते सङ्गोऽस्त्वकर्मणि॥
“You have the right to perform your duty, but never to its fruits.” (Bhagavad Gita 2.47)
Success comes from focusing on efforts rather than being attached to results.
2. Bhakti Yoga (Path of Devotion)
सर्वधर्मान्परित्यज्य मामेकं शरणं व्रज।अहं त्वां सर्वपापेभ्यो मोक्षयिष्यामि मा शुचः॥
“Abandon all varieties of religion and just surrender unto Me.” (Bhagavad Gita 18.66)
Faith in the divine leads to peace and fulfillment.
3. Jnana Yoga (Path of Knowledge)
य यो यच्छ्रद्धः स एव सः।
“A person is made by their belief. As they believe, so they become.” (Bhagavad Gita 17.3)
Self-realization through knowledge brings inner freedom.
Influence of Bhagavad Gita on the World
The Bhagavad Gita has inspired philosophers, leaders, and thinkers worldwide, including:
- Albert Einstein – He was impressed by the teachings of Lord Krishna and has quoted that, “When I read the Bhagavad Gita and reflect about how God created this universe everything else seems so superfluous.”
- Robert Oppenheimer – After a successful experiment, he quoted the following shloka:
कालोऽस्मि लोकक्षयकृत्प्रवृद्धो
लोकान्समाहर्तुमिह प्रवृत्त:
ऋतेऽपि त्वां न भविष्यन्ति सर्वे
येऽवस्थिता: प्रत्यनीकेषु योधा:
Meaning:
In this verse, Lord Krishna, in his universal form (Vishvarupa), reveals to Arjuna that he is Kaal (Time)—the ultimate force that destroys everything. He explains that all the warriors on the battlefield are already doomed by fate, and Arjuna is merely an instrument in the grand design of the universe.
This verse highlights the inevitability of time and destiny—no matter how powerful we are, everything is bound to change and perish. It also emphasizes detachment and duty, urging Arjuna to fight without attachment, as the outcome is already determined by divine will.
- Mahatma Gandhi – Used Gita’s principles in non-violent resistance.
- Swami Vivekananda – Popularized Gita’s teachings in the West.
Conclusion: Timeless Wisdom of Bhagavad Gita
The Bhagavad Gita is not just an ancient scripture but a guide to leading a successful life—for those who are searching for their life’s purpose, aiming to achieve something meaningful, and seeking spiritual growth.
Also referred as the ‘Song of God,’ the Bhagavad Gita contains profound teachings and answers to life’s most pressing questions—ranging from our duties (Dharma) and actions (Karma) to unwavering devotion (Bhakti) and inner wisdom. The divine teachings imparted by Lord Krishna to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra continue to resonate with seekers across generations and cultures.
By understanding the deep history, timeless teachings, and divine origin of the Bhagavad Gita, we not only connect with its spiritual foundation but also realize its powerful relevance in the modern world—whether for decision-making, stress management, emotional intelligence, or self-discovery. This sacred text remains a timeless source of hope and guidance, showing us the path toward a more conscious, peaceful, and fulfilled life.
Are you ready to dive deeper into the eternal teachings and wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita? Stay tuned for our upcoming post, where we uncover more hidden gems from this divine dialogue.