Bhagavad Gita | Advaita Vedanta | English | Balaji Ramaswamy | [email protected]

Chapter 03 - Karma YogaSloka 17 - Self-Sufficiency through Inner FulfillmentWhy does Bhagavan introduce the concept of moksha in Chapter 3, Slokas 17 and 18, while discussing karma yoga and performing duties?What is the “acid test” concept in these slokas, and how does it relate to measuring one’s spiritual growth or attainment of jñāna?How does Bhagavan clarify when one can stop performing karma yoga?What is the importance of karma yoga in purifying the mind, and why is it not considered the ultimate means to attain moksha?What are some of the existential questions that jñāna yoga addresses as part of the journey to moksha?What is the mindset or mental state of a person who has attained moksha, as portrayed in these slokas?What does Bhagavan mean by ‘Atma ratih’ (reveling in oneself), and how does it differ in meaning for a jñāni versus an ajñāni?How is 'Ātma-tṛiptah’ (contentment in oneself) explained in these slokas, and what mindset does it signify for the person who has attained moksha?What is the difference between the state of 'ātma ratih' (self-satisfaction) and 'ātma tṛiptah' (self-contentment), and how do they reflect a liberated mindset?What does it mean for a jñāni to feel satisfied within and to not require external validation or objects for contentment?How does a jñāni approach the faults in others, situations, or circumstances they encounter?How does the jñāni’s self-acceptance influence their relationships with others?What is the role of karma phala (results of past actions) in shaping our life situations, and how does this awareness contribute to a jñāni’s mindset of acceptance?What does it mean for a person to be content in all situations without needing anything external to feel complete?In what ways does this liberated mindset lead to dropping karma yoga naturally, without needing external prompts?How does a jñāni’s realization of self-contentment differ from merely acting content or suppressing desires?What insights do these slokas provide for those practicing karma yoga regarding their eventual goal?How is 'moksha' defined here, and what distinguishes it from common perceptions of happiness or pleasure derived from external sources?Sloka 18 - Freedom from Dependency and DutyVerse Meaning Questions:What does 'na eva tasya kṛitena arthaha' mean in this verse, and how does it describe the state of a Jnani in relation to action?After stating that a Jnani gains nothing through action, what might one logically assume about gaining from inaction, and how does Bhagavan address this?What does 'na akṛitena iha kaśhchana' imply about a Jnani’s state concerning inaction?In what way does this sloka highlight the concept of independence (swatantra) for a Jnani?Explain 'na cha asya sarva-bhūteṣhu kaśhchid artha-vyapāśhrayaḥ'. What does it say about a Jnani’s relationship with other beings, including Ishvara?Vichara Questions:What does it mean for a Jnani to be 'Prarabda Adeenam'? How does this impact their outlook on action and inaction?How does the concept of 'resistance' relate to samsara, and why is this resistance absent in a Jnani?Describe the two types of suffering (dukkha) mentioned. How does a Jnani transcend the second type, associated with mental resistance?

Chapter 03 - Karma YogaSloka 14 (Contd...) - Karma Yoga in Cycle of CreationHow is Karma Yōga tied to the actions of an individual, and why is this important for sustaining Punya?How does Bhagavan illustrate that Karma and the body are interdependent in the cycle?Describe the cycle that completes the connection between body, food, rain, and Karma. Why is this cycle vital for social balance?What are the consequences if an individual or society does not follow Karma Yōga?How does Bhagavan link Karma Yōga to the sustenance of Dharma and the universe?Why is Karma Yōga essential for both individual spiritual growth (Chitta Shuddhi) and the maintenance of social harmony?Sloka 15 - The Cosmic Cycle and its Divine OriginHow can one discern which karma maintains the balance of creation and which ones disrupt it?What does the term "karma brahma udbhavam" imply, and why should "karma" here be understood as "Karma Jñāna"?How do the Vedas serve as a source or "Pramana" for karma, and what is their role in defining actions as righteous or unrighteous?How does Bhagavan explain the origin of the Vedas themselves in this sloka?What is meant by "brahma akshara samudbhavam," and how does it connect the Vedas with Ishvara?How do the Upanishads describe the Vedas in relation to Ishvara’s breath, and why is this significant?Can you explain each of the four doshas associated with human intellect – Brahma, Pramada, Karana Apatava, and Vipralipsa – and their implications?What practices did the rishis follow to prepare themselves to receive the Vedic teachings?Why are the Vedas said to be established in yajña, or worship, and how does this relate to living a Vedic life?What is the difference between a life based on Vedic principles and one that is materialistic?What consequences does a person face if they reject the Vedic teachings, and how does this equate to rejecting Ishvara?Sloka 16 - Consequences of Disrupting the Cosmic CycleWhat does Bhagavan mean by the 'cosmic cycle' (Jagat Chakra) ?How does Karma Yoga contribute to maintaining harmony and order in society, as described in Sloka 16?What are the consequences of not adhering to this cosmic cycle through a Karma Yoga lifestyle, according to Bhagavan?How does Bhagavan characterize a life that does not honor this cosmic cycle of selfless action?Why does Bhagavan emphasize the importance of living by Karma Yoga not only on an individual level but as a collective responsibility for human society?How is the notion of “sin” and “useless life” in Sloka 16 related to the themes of selfless action and contribution over consumption?Karma Yoga Summary:2.47: Focus only on your duty, not on the results; action should be done for mental purity, without attachment.2.48: Maintaining equanimity—balance in success and failure is Karma Yoga.2.50: Karma Yoga is skill in action, removing likes and dislikes, turning actions into a means of liberation.2.52: The result of Karma Yoga is the development of discrimination (viveka) and detachment (vairagya), distinguishing between eternal and transient values.3.08: Perform your duties diligently without attachment to actions or results, focusing on what is right, not on personal preferences.3.09: Karma Yoga is performing actions as an offering to Ishvara, avoiding attachment to outcomes.3.10: Life is a sacrifice; Karma Yoga is a life of selfless giving, not taking.3.11: Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah - Karma yōga is a life of contribution not consumption.3.12: A non-reverential life is karma. Reverential life is karma yōgaḥ. It’s acceptable to perform actions with certain desires but always with gratitude and charity.3.13: Karma Yogis are liberated from sin by offering to the Divine, while selfish actions result in bondage.3.14 - 3.15: The cosmic cycle (Jagat Chakra) relies on Karma Yoga to maintain harmony in the world.3.16: Ignoring the cosmic cycle of selfless action leads to a life of waste and sin.

Chapter 03 - Karma YogaSloka 13 - Karma Yoga is Life of SharingWhat is the key difference between a Karma Yogi and a non-Karma Yogi as described in this sloka?What does the term "Yajña-śhiṣhṭāśhinaḥ" refer to in this context, and what is its significance in Karma Yoga?How does performing actions for others, as a Karma Yogi, lead to freedom from sins according to the first line of the sloka?In the second line of the sloka, what is Bhagavan’s view on those who act out of selfishness? What is the outcome of such actions?How does the concept of sharing and contributing to society relate to Karma yoga according to this sloka?What is the role of the Pancha Maha Yajnas in the life of a Karma Yogi, and how does it relate to this sloka?How do the Pancha Maha Yajnas help in purifying both deliberate and inadvertent sins as mentioned in the sloka?What are the two types of sins that a Karma yogi can be freed from?What is the difference between "Deliberate" and "Pramada" sins, and how does Karma Yoga help in overcoming them?How does the Manu Smriti explain the role of Pancha Maha Yajnas in dealing with everyday inadvertent sins?What does Shastras mean by saying a person is freed from all obstacles to moksha?What is the significance of spiritual growth in Karma Yoga, and why is it considered more important than material success?How does Shastras describe the consequences of selfishness on spiritual growth in this sloka?According to the sloka, how is sin measured in terms of spiritual deprivation rather than material loss?What is the definition of Puṇyam and Pāpam, and how do they influence one's journey towards mokṣa (liberation)?Why does Shastras say that material prosperity is secondary to spiritual growth in the practice of Karma yoga?Why is the purification of the mind emphasized as the primary outcome of Karma Yoga in this sloka?What is the role of delusion (mōhaḥ) in obstructing spiritual progress, and how does Karma Yoga help overcome it?Why is attitudinal change considered more important than changing the external world for achieving happiness?How does Bhagavan's message in this sloka align with the teachings in Bhaja Govindam, referred to as Mōhaḥ Mudgaraḥ (the hammer to smash delusion)?Sloka 14 - Karma Yoga in Cycle of CreationUnderstanding the Importance of Karma Yōga:How is Karma Yōga described as the first step toward Moksha in this sloka?What is the significance of Karma Yōga in maintaining the harmony of the world according to the sloka?The Cycle of Creation and Karma Yōga:Explain the concept of "Jagat Chakra Pravarthaka Hetuh Karma Yogah" and its relevance to societal harmony.How does the cycle of creation, as mentioned by Bhagavan, depend on Karma Yōga?Five Points of Interdependency:Bhagavan presents a chain of five interdependent factors that sustain creation. What are these five steps, and how are they related to each other?Why does Bhagavan emphasize that food (Annam) is essential for the survival of all beings? How does this relate to the sthula shareera (body)?How does the cycle link food (Annam) to actions (Karma) and the role of Punya (apūrvam) in sustaining nature’s balance?Role of Rains in the Cycle:What is the role of rain (parjanyāt) in this cycle, and how is it connected to Punya or Yajna as explained in the notes?Why does Bhagavan assert that rains are dependent on Yajna or Dharma, and what does this imply about the cosmic balance?Punya and Cosmic Balance:How does the concept of Punya relate to ecological balance and the natural order?Why is Shraddha (faith) necessary to understand the relationship between Karma Yōga and cosmic harmony?

Chapter 03 - Karma YogaSloka 11 - Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah (Maintaining Cosmic Balance)How does Chapter 3, Sloka 11, explain the process of attaining desires through the Karma Yoga lifestyle?What does the famous Vedic phrase 'Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah' mean, and how does it relate to the teachings in this sloka?Explain how the protection of Dharma ensures reciprocal protection, and how this principle is applied in everyday life.How does the story of Karna in the Mahabharata highlight the importance of intent when speaking about Dharma?What questions should we ask ourselves before criticizing others for not following Dharma?What is the deeper significance of following Dharma for its own sake, rather than for personal protection or gain?How does Bhagavan explain the relationship between humans and the devathas (natural forces) in this sloka?How does the principle of protecting nature, as symbolized by devathas, reflect Bhagavan’s teachings on living in harmony with the environment?How does the analogy of devathas in this sloka align with modern environmental science?Explain how the protection of Dharma ensures reciprocal protection, and how this principle is applied in everyday life.How are nature’s elements personified as part of Ishvara’s body, and why is this important for understanding the interconnectedness of all life?What does the phrase 'paropakārāya phalanti vrikṣaḥ' signify about the nature of selfless service in this context?Why is cooperation seen as essential for personal and societal growth, and how does competition lead to negative traits like selfishness and jealousy?How does this sloka challenge the modern notion of success, which often prioritizes getting more with less effort?What are the three key takeaways from the concept of ‘parasparam bhāvayantaḥ’ in this sloka?Sloka 12 - Attitude in Kaamya Karma - Prasada Buddhi and Sharing What are the two types of actions discussed in Karma Yoga, and how do they differ?Why does Bhagavan allow the performance of kaamya karma in the initial stages of Karma Yoga?What are the two conditions Bhagavan places on performing kaamya karma to make it part of Karma Yoga?How does prasada buddhi influence our attitude towards enjoying pleasures?Why is it important to mix the concept of bhogam and Bhagavan in everyday pleasures?How does the concept of Ishvara Prasada contribute to the process of chitta shuddhi (purification of the mind)?How does a person’s mental attitude change when they enjoy pleasures with the mindset of Ishvara Prasada versus without it?What are the mental qualities that develop when enjoying bhoga with prasada buddhi?What role does daanam (sharing) play in enjoying kaamya karma?What does Bhagavan mean by calling a person a "thief" in the context of kaamya karma and devata blessings?How do the devatas provide desired pleasures according to this sloka, and what is the condition for receiving their blessings?What is the significance of performing yajnas and pujas in securing blessings from the devatas?How does our Indian culture emphasize gratitude and reverence in every action, from daily activities to special ceremonies?What is the distinction between secular and sacred life in other cultures compared to the Indian perspective on life as a continuous act of reverence?Why is it important to differentiate between legitimate and illegitimate desires?What is the first stage of Karma Yoga regarding the handling of desires, and how does one achieve it?How does Karma Yoga guide us in moderating even legitimate desires in the second stage?What is the third stage of Karma Yoga, and how does it bring about non-attachment to desires?How does the practice of Karma Yoga help maintain mental composure regardless of the fulfillment of desires?How does Bhagavan's teaching on moderating desires relate to the concept of samathuvam (equanimity) in the second chapter of the Gita?

Chapter 03 - Karma YogaSloka 10 (Contd...) - Karma Yoga and the Five Yajñas: Creator’s GuidanceDeva YajnaHow does Bhagavad Gita mention Deva Yajñā, and what does it say about the mutual relationship between humans and devas?How does modern life impact Deva Yajñā, and what adjustments can one make to continue honoring the deities and nature?What are the benefits of Deva Yajñā?Pitr YajñāWhat is the significance of Pitr Yajñā in honoring one's ancestors, and how is it typically performed?How do rituals like Śrāddha and tarpanam fulfill the requirements of Pitr Yajñā?Why is it said that feeding brahmanas or performing rituals on Śrāddha day can ensure the well-being of one's ancestors in the afterlife?What is the difference between performing Pitr Yajñā for direct ancestors and for all deceased family members?Can you explain the connection between Pitr Yajñā and the cycle of birth and rebirth, and how it affects the karmic balance of the family lineage?Why is it said that Pitr Yajñā should not be substituted by other forms of charity, such as feeding the poor?How does observing the rituals and rites of Pitr Yajñā bring spiritual benefits to the person performing them and their family?How are actions like donating to the poor, feeding animals, and caring for the environment integrated with the performance of Pitr Yajñā?On R̥ṣi Yajñā (Brahma Yajñā):What is the significance of "r̥ṣi yajñā" or "Brahma yajñā"? How does it contribute to the preservation of our scriptures and traditions?How does daily study of scriptures such as the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Sahasranāma fulfill the practice of r̥ṣi yajñā?What is the meaning of Adi Sankara’s statement "Vedo Nityam Adheeyatam Tad Uditam Karma Swanushteeyataam" in the context of r̥ṣi yajñā?How does svadhyaya (self-study) and pravachana (teaching) play a role in preserving and transmitting scriptural knowledge to future generations?In what ways can modern parents ensure that their children learn and internalize traditional wisdom and scriptures as part of r̥ṣi yajñā?What is the significance of performing rituals such as offering to the Vedas (rig vedām tarpayami, yajur vedām tarpayami, etc.) in r̥ṣi yajñā?On Manuṣya Yajñā (Service to Humanity):What distinguishes manuṣya yajñā from other forms of social service? How does the intention behind the service play a critical role?How does the concept of "Nara seva, Narayana seva" reflect the essence of manuṣya yajñā?What are some modern examples of manuṣya yajñā, and how do they align with traditional practices such as Athithi yajñā?Why is it important that acts of service in manuṣya yajñā be performed without expecting any personal gain or reciprocity?On Bhūtha Yajñā (Service to Living Beings and Environment):What is bhūtha yajñā, and how does it encompass caring for animals, plants, and the environment?How do cultural practices, such as reverence for animals as vāhanās of deities, contribute to the concept of bhūtha yajñā?How do festivals like Maatu Pongal and traditions like Kolam (Rangoli) reflect the essence of bhūtha yajñā?Why is it important to maintain reverence for life and nature, and how does this align with the broader philosophy of bhūtha yajñā?On Karma Yōga and Dharma:What is the relationship between karma yōga and the performance of the five yajñās (r̥ṣi yajñā, manuṣya yajñā, etc.)?How does leading a life of karma yōga (life of contribution) differ from a life focused on consumption?In what ways does following Dharma contribute to both material and spiritual progress? Why is it important to avoid shortcuts in this pursuit?What does the term "iṣṭakāmadhuk" signify in the context of karma yōga, and how does it relate to the concept of kāmadhenuḥ?How does Prajāpati’s instruction, "anena prasaviṣhyadhvam" ("by this, may you prosper"), emphasize the importance of following a dharmic lifestyle?

Chapter 03 - Karma YogaSloka 09 (Contd...) - Have Ishvara Arpana Attitude when performing DutiesHow does Ishvara’s command (through the Vedas) shape the performance of duties?How does one’s spiritual maturity influence the reason for performing duties for Ishvara?What are the two primary attitudes a person can have when performing duties for Ishvara?Why is gratitude important in performing duties, and how does it relate to spiritual maturity?What are some of the gifts from Ishvara that we often take for granted?How does one develop bhakti (devotion) towards Ishvara through the appreciation of these gifts?Why is the mind considered the greatest gift from Ishvara, and how should one develop gratitude for it?How does the prayer to Ishvara before stepping on the Earth reflect gratitude for creation?Why is there a tradition of seeking forgiveness for stepping on the Earth or using natural resources like water, air, and fire?What does the verse “mamopātta-samasta-durita-kṣaya-dvārā śrīparameśvara-prītyarthaṃ” signify about the attitude of offering actions to Ishvara?How does this sense of gratitude and offering apply to daily activities like stepping on the Earth, using water, and breathing air?What does it mean to perform duties with the attitude that the very performance of the duty is itself the result?How does offering one’s actions to Ishvara help free one from the bondage of karma?Why is it important not to expect others to fulfill their duties in return for what we do, and how does Ishvara ensure we get what we deserve?What is the final point Bhagavan makes about the world being bound by actions?How does doing duties with the proper attitude free one from samsara (the cycle of birth and death)?What is the significance of the prayer "ātmā tvaṃ girijā matiḥ" in the context of Karma Yoga?How can one’s entire life become an offering to Ishvara through Karma Yoga?Sloka 10 - Karma Yoga and the Five Yajñas: Creator’s GuidanceWhy is the Karma Yoga lifestyle unique to humans, according to the notes?What key differences between animals and humans are highlighted in the context of Karma Yoga?What does Karma Yoga involve, and why is it considered a lifestyle of sacrifice and sharing?How does the example of dogs fighting over food illustrate the concept of human choice in Karma Yoga?What attitude does Karma Yoga foster in humans, and how does it lead to contentment and satisfaction?How does Bhagavan describe his role in the creation of the Karma Yoga lifestyle?What significance does Bhagavan place on humans’ ability to derive happiness from sharing?How does Bhagavan differentiate between the programmed behaviors of animals and the choices available to humans in Karma Yoga?What does the story of Mahakavi Subramanya Bharathi and feeding the birds illustrate about the mindset of sacrifice?How does the reaction of Bharathi’s wife contrast with his perspective on sharing and sacrifice?What does the example of a dog’s sense of gratitude suggest about the natural characteristics of animals compared to human choices in Karma Yoga?What does the term 'Yajna' mean in the context of this sloka, and how does it relate to Karma Yoga?What does 'saha-yajñāḥ prajāḥ sṛiṣhṭvā' signify in the first line of the sloka?What are the different meanings of 'yajna' according to the notes, and how do they apply to the Karma Yoga lifestyle?How are humans given the choice to live either an animalistic, human, or divine life, and how does this relate to Karma Yoga?What does the ability to share, give up, and sacrifice reveal about the challenges and opportunities in Karma Yoga?What are 'pañca mahā yajñās', and how are they related to the Karma Yoga lifestyle?What is the essence of Deva Yajñā, and how does it represent our relationship with nature and divine elements?In what ways do the five elements—earth, water, fire, air, and space—play a role in Deva Yajñā, and how do we express our gratitude towards them?

Chapter 03 - Karma YogaSloka 08 (Contd...) - Perform duties without attachmentThe Role of Attitude in Karma YogaHow does performing every action with the right attitude contribute to the path of Karma Yoga?Why is it essential to avoid actions driven purely by Raaga-Dvesha (likes and dislikes) in Karma Yoga?Gradual Reduction of Kaamya KarmaWhat strategies are recommended for gradually reducing actions driven by personal desires (Kaamya Karma)?How can the reduction of Kaamya Karma contribute to the spiritual progress of a Karma Yogi?Path to Spiritual Progress through Karma YogaHow does Karma Yoga help in progressing spiritually without renouncing actions?What is the ultimate goal of practicing Karma Yoga as per the Bhagavad Gita?Sloka 09 - Have Ishvara Arpana Attitude when performing DutiesIntroduction to the Essence of Duties and KarmaWhat is the essence of the sloka regarding one's attitude when performing duties?How does karma bind us, and what is the impact of actions on likes and dislikes?Why do likes and dislikes increase as we grow older, according to the example of the 80-year-old person?What is the difference between earning experience and accumulating likes and dislikes?The Nature of Worry and ActionsWhat does Adi Sankara mean by "vriddhstaavatu chinta saktaha"?How do our actions and duties bind us?According to Bhagavan, what should our attitude be when performing actions or duties?The Concept of Bhavana in DutiesWhat is "Niyata Karmani" and what bhavana (attitude) should be associated with it?How does the attitude towards duties change between students, householders, and parents?Why should we not have any expectation of the result when performing our duties?How is the example of repaying a loan used to explain the correct attitude in performing duties?Expectations and KarmaWhat happens when we expect something in return for our duties?How does the sloka differentiate between duty and business transactions when expectations are involved?Why does Bhagavan suggest that we sacrifice our rights and focus only on doing our duties?How does the relationship between duty and rights play out in various relationships like father-son, husband-wife, and government-citizen?The Nature of Reciprocal ArrangementsWhat are the three things to note about reciprocal arrangements in relationships and duties?Why are reciprocal arrangements not always equal?Why are reciprocal arrangements not always honored?Why do people often not show gratitude for the duties or help they receive?Appreciation and GratitudeWhat role does expectation of appreciation play in duties within families and close relationships?What does the sloka say about the expectation of appreciation within a family structure (e.g., wife, husband, teacher, student)?How does focusing on rights rather than duties lead to conflicts such as divorces or legal battles?What assurance does Bhagavan give to those who do their duties but don’t receive their dues from others?Ishvara and the Concept of Karma YogaWhat does Bhagavan mean by saying that one should perform actions for the sake of Ishvara?How do performing duties for Ishvara differ from performing duties for others?Why is faith (shraddha) in Ishvara important for following Karma Yoga?What is the significance of yajñārthāt karmaṇo 'nyatra in the context of Karma Yoga?

Chapter 03 - Karma YogaSloka 07 (Contd...) - Excellence of Karma Yoga Through Mindful ActionKey Definitions:What does Bhagavan mean by "niyamya indriyāṇi manasā"? How can this phrase be interpreted in two different ways?What does the term "asktaḥ" signify in the context of performing actions?Detailed Explanation:What does it mean to restrain both the sense organs and the mind while pursuing actions?Why is it important to restrain the mind along with the sense organs?Process of Karma Yōga:After restraining the sense organs and mind, what is the next step in practicing Karma Yōga?How does pursuing actions without attachment contribute to one's spiritual progress?Comparative Analysis:How does Bhagavan compare the person practicing Karma Yōga with a sanyāsi who renounces without maturity?Why does Bhagavan consider the practice of Karma Yōga superior in certain situations?Broader Implications:What does Bhagavan imply about the relationship between Sanyāsa and love for Vēdānta?Why does Bhagavan continue beyond sloka 7 to further explain Karma Yōga instead of stopping here?Anticipating Arjuna’s Doubt:What potential question from Arjuna does Bhagavan anticipate after explaining the necessity of Karma Yōga?How does this anticipated question set the stage for further teachings on Karma Yōga?Sloka 08 - Perform duties without attachmentUnderstanding Karma and Karma YogaWhat is Karma, and how does it differ from Karma Yoga as described in the Bhagavad Gita?Why does Bhagavan emphasize that inaction is not an option?The Components of Karma YogaWhat are the two main parts of Karma Yoga?How does the right attitude transform regular Karma into Karma Yoga?Nishiddha Karma (Forbidden Actions)What is Nishiddha Karma, and why does the Shastra advise against performing it?Can you provide examples of Nishiddha Karma and explain their consequences?Prayaschitta Karma (Remedial Actions)What is Prayaschitta Karma, and when should it be performed?How does Karma Yoga suggest we approach Prayaschitta Karma to avoid repetitively performing prohibited actions?Kaamya Karma (Desire-Prompted Actions)What is Kaamya Karma, and why is it generally considered to be discouraged in Karma Yoga?How can performing Kaamya Karma with the right attitude potentially transform it into Karma Yoga?

Chapter 03 - Karma YogaSloka 05 (Contd...) - Inaction is impossibleWhat misunderstanding do some yogis have regarding the state of inaction?What does the second line of Sloka 5 primarily address: Ajnanis or Jnanis?Why is it wrong to believe that one should aspire to a state of inaction or irresponsibility?What could happen if an immature person takes up Sannyasa without proper understanding?What is the Vedantic approach to meditation?Why did Arjuna want to avoid his duties, and what is Bhagavan's response in Sloka 5?What additional reason is Bhagavan going to provide in the next Sloka to emphasize the importance of action?Sloka 06 - Dangers of Inaction and HypocrisySpiritual Consequences of Inaction:What does Bhagavan warn about the spiritual consequences of taking to inaction?How does inaction lead to spiritual failure rather than progress?Inaction at Different Levels:Can inaction be achieved at both the body and mind levels?Mental Renunciation vs. Physical Renunciation:What is the difference between mental renunciation and physical renunciation?Provide an example that illustrates the challenge of renouncing mentally versus physically.The Dangers of Unripe Renunciation:What does Bhagavan compare the unripe renunciation of desires to?Why is it dangerous for a person with too many desires to renounce actions without mental maturity?Consequences of Premature Renunciation:What are the potential consequences of renouncing responsibilities without mental preparation?How does Bhagavan describe a person who externally renounces but remains internally attached?Mithyācāraḥ - The Hypocrite:How does a person who renounces externally but craves internally fit the description of a "mithyācāraḥ"?Vimūḍhātmā - The Deluded Mind:What does Bhagavan imply by using the term "vimūḍhātmā"?How does this term relate to a person who is unable to control their desires despite external renunciation?What practical steps can one take to test their mental maturity before renouncing worldly attachments?The One-Way Street of Sannyasa:Why is sannyasa considered a "one-way street"?What should one practice internally before taking on sannyasa externally?The Danger of Premature Sannyasa:What are the risks of taking up sannyasa without first practicing mental renunciation?How can forcing oneself to progress quickly lead to a quicker downfall?Consistency Over Intensity:What does Bhagavan emphasize regarding the pace of spiritual progress?Why is consistency more important than intensity in the pursuit of moksha?Three Reasons to Avoid Inaction:What are the three reasons Bhagavan gives to avoid inaction?How does Bhagavan address the misconception that inaction guarantees peace of mind?The Impossibility of Inaction:Why does Bhagavan argue that inaction is impossible for the majority of people?What is the significance of the story of the "simply sitting sāmiyār" in illustrating the difficulty of inaction?Risks of Inaction:What are the risks associated with inaction, even if one manages to remain physically inactive?How does inaction prevent the opportunity for mental purity and spiritual progress?Conclusion to Arjuna's Question:How does Bhagavan plan to conclude the discussion in the next sloka?What is the overall message Bhagavan conveys regarding karma and inaction?Sloka 07 - Excellence of Karma Yoga Through Mindful ActionHow does Bhagavan arrive at the conclusion that Arjuna should perform Karma Yōga?What are the issues associated with performing actions with desires in mind according to Bhagavan?Why is inaction not a viable option for spiritual progress as explained by Bhagavan?What problems arise if one tries to avoid action, as mentioned in the sloka?How can avoiding action lead to hypocrisy, according to the teachings in this sloka?What solution does Bhagavan offer to the problem of action creating attachment?How does Karma Yōga differ from simply performing actions?

Chapter 03 - Karma YogaSloka 03 (Contd...) - Path to Liberation: Karma Yoga and Jnana YogaWhat misunderstanding about lifestyle and moksha is common among many people, including Arjuna?What is the consequence of adopting the sannyasa lifestyle without performing karma yōga or jñāna yōga?Why does being a householder not automatically qualify one for jñāna yōga?If sādanas are what determine moksha, why did Bhagavan create the two lifestyles of householder and renunciate?Why is the Grihastha ashrama particularly suitable for performing karma yōga?What does the word 'Yogah' mean, and how does it apply to both jñāna yōga and karma yōga?How does jñāna yōga unite Jivatma with Paramatma?What is the gap between Jivatma and Paramatma that jñāna yōga seeks to bridge?What role does karma yōga play in leading one to jñāna yōga?What information does Bhagavan provide in the subsequent slokas related to jñāna yōga and karma yōga?Sloka 04 - Inaction cannot lead to LiberationWhat is Arjuna's mindset regarding his duty and ashrama, and what does he want to pursue instead?Why does Bhagavan emphasize the necessity of Karma Yoga before Jñāna Yoga in the upcoming slokas?What is the significance of conditioning the mind through Pravrtti Marga before progressing to Nivrrti Marga?What is Bhagavan's response to Arjuna's reluctance to engage in karma and responsibilities?How does Tamo guna influence Arjuna's desire to avoid responsibilities, and what should be done to address it?What would happen if someone in Tamo guna attempted meditation (dhyana)?Why is engaging in activities essential for a brahmachari studying Vedanta in an ashram?How does taking responsibility help transition the mind from Tamo guna to Rajo guna, and eventually to Sattva guna?What does Bhagavan say about avoiding duties and responsibilities in relation to attaining liberation (moksha)?Why is Karma Yoga considered a compulsory step before Jñāna Yoga?What determines moksha: lifestyle or sādanas?Why can't inaction be a means to attain the state of inaction (naiṣkarmyam)?What analogy is used to describe the state of inaction amidst action?Why is mere renunciation or donning ochre robes insufficient for moksha?How does Bhagavan clarify the seemingly contradictory Vedic statements regarding moksha through renunciation?What is the significance of scriptural study in achieving liberation through sannyasa?What is Bhagavan's overall message regarding inaction and renunciation in relation to attaining moksha?What misconception does Bhagavan address regarding responsibilities and samsara?Why is avoiding duties not a valid sādana for moksha or Chitta Shuddhi?How should individuals determine their appropriate sādana and ashrama according to Sastras?What is the essence of the sloka regarding inaction, renunciation, and moksha?What are the three reasons Bhagavan gives in the three slokas to address Arjuna’s mindset?Sloka 05 - Inaction is impossibleIs it possible to remain inactive?What does the term "akarmakṛt" signify in the context of Sloka ?How does Bhagavan explain the inability of anyone to remain inactive, even for a moment?What example is given to illustrate that no one can remain without action?Who or what forces everyone into action, according to the second line of Sloka?What is the significance of prakṛti (maya) in the context of this Sloka?What is the difference between an Ajnani and a Jnani regarding action?Why is it said that an Ajnani cannot remain inactive even for a moment?How does an Ajnani mistakenly perceive their body and mind in relation to ātma?What does it mean when it is said that an Ajnani always considers themselves to be active?How does a Jnani view their actions differently from an Ajnani?What does it mean for a Jnani to be inactive, even when the body is active?What is the first explanation provided for the first line of Sloka 5?How does the second explanation of the first line differ from the first one?

Chapter 03 - Karma YogaSloka 03 - Lifestyles vs Sādanas; Karma Yōga and Jñāna YōgaWhat is the short answer to Arjuna’s question before we go to Bhagavan’s teaching?Why did Arjuna think that Bhagavan had criticized Karma Yōga?What did Bhagavan actually criticize and what did he praise?What is Karma Yōga?Why did Bhagavan ask Arjuna to do Karma Yōga and not Jñāna Yōga?What is the direct answer for why Arjuna should do Karma Yōga instead of Jñāna Yōga?How does the example of a 10th standard student relate to Arjuna’s situation?Why does Bhagavan not give direct orders to Arjuna?What is the difference between commanding someone and giving upadesha?What are the two important topics Bhagavan introduces in this sloka?What are Sādana Dwayam and Nishta Dwayam?What are the two sādanas introduced by Bhagavan?What is the sadyam (goal) for Jñāna Yōga?What is Jñāna Yōga?What is the benefit of following Jñāna Yōga?What is the sadyam (goal) for Karma Yōga?How does Karma Yōga benefit a person?Why is Karma Yōga compared to a relay race?What is jñāna yōgyatha prāpthi?What is the role of Karma Yōga in preparing for Jñāna Yōga?Why does karma yōga alone not give liberation?How does one attain liberation according to the scriptures?Why does Bhagavan introduce two niṣṭās (lifestyles)?What are the two niṣṭās mentioned by Bhagavan?What are the two types of lifestyles according to Bhagavan?What is the purpose of splitting the marga into Pravrtti and Nivritti?How does the confusion between sādanas and niṣṭās arise?What determines Moksha according to Bhagavan?Why are the two nishtas not compulsory for attaining Moksha?How does one’s lifestyle (niṣṭā) relate to their attainment of Moksha?What is the role of the Vedas in relation to the world?How do the Vedas serve as a manual for life?What are the four ashramas mentioned in the Vedas?What is the distinction between pravrithi niṣṭā and nivrithi niṣṭā?How does one know if they had a fulfilling life according to Bhagavan’s scheme?Why is it important to perform both Karma Yōga and Jñāna Yōga?What is the difference between being in a lifestyle and performing the corresponding sādana?How does Bhagavan’s response seem to answer Arjuna’s question indirectly?What is the significance of the example of Janaka?How does Janaka’s life illustrate the balance of performing both sādanas in a householder’s lifestyle?

Chapter 03 - Karma YogaSloka 01 - Arjuna's Quest for clear directionChapter IntroductionWhat is the main theme of Chapter 3 of the Bhagavad Gita?What topics will be covered in the first portion of this chapter?Arjuna's DoubtWhy does Arjuna have a doubt at the beginning of Chapter 3?How can we infer that Arjuna listened to Chapter 2?Why is it positive when someone says they have a doubt?Bhagavan's Teachings in Chapter 2What criticism did Bhagavan give about Karma in Chapter 2, Sloka 42?What did Bhagavan say in Chapter 2, Sloka 45 about the first portion of the Vedas?What did Bhagavan emphasize as the remedy for sorrow and conflict in life?Concept of Jñāna and KarmaAccording to Bhagavan, what is the ultimate remedy for sorrow and conflict?What is Arjuna's main confusion regarding Jñāna and Karma?Why does Arjuna believe that Jñāna is superior to Karma?Arjuna's Question to BhagavanWhat does Arjuna mean by “Janārdana” when addressing Bhagavan?How does Arjuna express his confusion about Karma and Jñāna to Bhagavan?What is Arjuna's specific doubt in Sloka 1 of Chapter 3?Nature of Karma and JñānaHow does Arjuna view the nature of Karma in the context of the battle?What actions are considered unpleasant for Arjuna in the battle?Why does Arjuna want to avoid Karma in this situation?Improper Grasping of TeachingsWhat is the consequence of Arjuna's improper grasping of Bhagavan's teachings?How does Bhagavan clarify the importance of Karma Yoga in Chapter 2, Sloka 40?Comparison of Yoga PathsWhy is it incorrect to compare Karma Yoga and Jñāna Yoga?How should one properly view the relationship between Karma Yoga and Jñāna Yoga?Filtered ListeningWhat is “filtered listening,” and how does it apply to Arjuna’s understanding?Why might a student find fault with a teacher when the teachings go against their preconceived ideas?How does one’s adhikaaratvam (qualifications) affect their understanding of teachings?Arjuna's MindsetWhy does Arjuna seek validation from Bhagavan before making decisions?How does Arjuna’s mindset reflect his readiness to listen to Bhagavan's teachings?Slokas 02 - Arjuna's confusion and the role of ShraddhaWhy does Arjuna feel confused by Bhagavan's teachings in this sloka?How do preconceived notions impact a student's understanding of shastras?What is the significance of the term ‘iva’ in Arjuna’s statement?Differentiate between Ashraddha, Kushraddha, and Shraddha.What does Arjuna request Bhagavan to do in this sloka?How does Arjuna's questioning demonstrate his Shraddha?Why is Shraddha important for attaining true knowledge according to the Bhagavad Gita?What does Arjuna mean by ‘vyāmiśhreṇa iva vākyena buddhiṁ mohayasi iva me’?In what way does Arjuna show humility in this sloka?Why is it important to question one’s own understanding rather than the teacher’s wisdom in spiritual learning?

Bhagavad Gita - Class 098 - Chapter 02 Slokas 01-72 - Chapter Summary - Class taken on 21 Ju1 2024

Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 72 - Day and Night: The Perception of a Jnani and AjnaniWhat does the term "Brahmi Sthiti" refer to in this sloka?How is Brahmi Sthiti described as related to Jeevan Mukti?What is the foundation or basis for attaining Brahmi Sthiti?Which verses of the Bhagavad Gita are essential for understanding the foundation of Brahmi Sthiti?According to this sloka, what state of mind does a person in Brahmi Sthiti possess?What are the indications that one has reached the Brahmi Sthiti?What is the significance of Jnana as described in this sloka?How does attaining this Jnana affect a person’s state of delusion (Moha)?How is the concept of Videha Mukti described in this sloka?What happens to a person who attains Jnana even at the time of death?What is the difference between Jeevan Mukti and Videha Mukti?What does the term "Brahmanirvanam" signify in the context of Videha Mukti?How does Prarabdha Karma relate to the state of a Jnani’s mind?What happens to the three bodies (Stula, Sukshma, and Karana) of a Jnani after death?What reassurance does Bhagavan provide about the age or time of attaining Jnana?How should one approach the practice of Sadhanas regardless of their age?How can one apply the concept of being a "trustee of things" in their daily life?Why is it important not to fret about when one begins their spiritual practice, according to this sloka?Slokas 01-72 - Chapter Summary

Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 69 (Contd...) - Day and Night: The Perception of a Jnani and AjnaniHow is the perception of the rope different for a Jnani and an Ajnani?How does this analogy illustrate the differing reactions of a Jnani and an Ajnani to the world?Explain the significance of the wooden elephant in illustrating the understanding of a Jnani versus an Ajnani.How does the ignorant person’s fear transform upon recognizing the true nature of the wooden elephant?Why is the world a frightening place for an ignorant person?Explain the phrases "sarvaṃ śivamayam jagat," "sarvaṃ viṣṇumayam jagat," and "sarvaṃ brahmamayam jagat" in the context of a Jnani's vision.How does Shankaracharya introduce the concepts of kartrutvam and bhokrutvam?What realization does a Jnani have about the body and mind as karta (doer)?Why is a Jnani free from karma adhikaara, and what does this imply?Why is the world seen as superimposed on Brahman?What is the fundamental cause of samsara (worldly suffering) for an Ajnani?How does Vedanta address the problems and challenges faced by individuals?Why does Vedanta not attempt to change the external world or people?How does the world continue to present itself to both Jnani and Ajnani, despite their different perceptions?Sloka 70 - The Ocean of Equanimity: Jnani's Steadfastness Amidst DesiresHow does Bhagavan illustrate that a Jnani has no desires through the example of an ocean?What is the significance of different types of rivers (clean, dirty, holy) entering the ocean in this context?How does this sloka relate to the concept given in Sloka 55 about desires and Jnana Nishta?Explain the two perspectives mentioned:A Sthitha Prajna does not have any desires and hence is Jnana Nishta.Jnana Nishta is achievable only for a person who has no desires.What happens to desires when they enter a Jnani’s mind according to the analogy with the ocean?How does a Jnani view both praise and criticism?Describe the comparison between a Jnani’s mind and an Ajnani’s mind in terms of external approval.Explain the analogy of the ocean’s water cycle (evaporation, cloud formation, rainfall) with the concept of karma and experiences.How does a Jnani perceive their experiences in the context of karma?How can this sloka be used as a litmus test to determine if one is a Jnani or Ajnani?What does the reaction to praise and criticism reveal about one’s spiritual progress?Sloka 71 - Renunciation of Desires: The Path to Inner PeaceHow does Bhagavan summarize the characteristics of a Sthitha Prajna in this sloka?What is the key idea about desires that Bhagavan reiterates in this sloka?What does Bhagavan mean by "vihāya kāmān yaḥ sarvān"?Why does Bhagavan emphasize renouncing all desires without exceptions?What does "charati niḥspṛhaḥ" imply about the behavior of a Jnani?What is the difference between binding desires and non-binding desires?How do desires arising from contentment differ from those arising from discontentment?How is Shankaracharya’s desire to write bhashyas an example of a non-binding desire?How does the story of the sannyasi and the thief illustrate the concept of "nispṛhaḥ"?What does it mean for a Jnani to use things without attachment or dependence?How does a Jnani react when things or relationships are not available?What does "nispṛhaḥ" specifically mean in the context of seeking from others?What is meant by "nirmamaḥ" and how does it apply to a Jnani’s view of possessions?How does a Jnani’s view on ownership differ from that of an Ajnani?How does the attitude of being a trustee of things rather than an owner help in cultivating non-attachment?How should one view their possessions?How can the concept of everything belonging to Ishvara help in dealing with loss or change?How can one assess their own level of attachment to worldly objects and relationships?In what ways can practicing non-attachment lead to greater mental stability and contentment?

Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 65 (Contd...) - Establishment of Knowledge Through Tranquil MindDescribe the analogy of the pickle and its relevance to the cultivation of jñāna nishta. How does patience play a role in this process?Explain the phrase "prasanna-chetaso hyāśhu buddhiḥ paryavatiṣhṭhate." What does it signify about the firm establishment of knowledge?Sloka 66 - Mental Discipline: Key to Self-Knowledge and PeaceWhy can’t a person practice Nidhidhyasana effectively if they lack mental discipline?Explain the significance of the phrase "nāsti buddhir-ayuktasya."Why does self-knowledge (ātma jñāna) not arise for an undisciplined person?What is the meaning of the term "buddhiḥ" in this context, and why is it important for self-knowledge?How does mental discipline influence the conversion of words heard during śravaṇam (listening) into knowledge?How does lack of Nidhidhyasana affect a person’s peace (śāntiḥ) ?How does Bhagavan emphasize the necessity of contemplation for achieving peace and withdrawal from worldly activities?Why does Bhagavan question "aśāntasya kutaḥ sukham"?Explain how the analogy of reflection in calm waters relates to ātma ānanda and mental tranquility.Why is the study of the Bhagavad Gītā more than an academic pursuit according to the notes?Sloka 67 - The Impact of Mental Discipline on WisdomHow do the slokas 67 & 68 fit into the broader segment that began in sloka 58?What role do Damaha and Shamaha play as sādanas for Nidhidhyasana?How does the mind following the wandering sense organs affect one's spiritual progress?How is the wandering of the sense organs compared to a grazing cow?What are the dangers when the mind and sense organs wandering without control?Under what conditions can even knowledge be taken away?How are the mind, knowledge, and samsara represented in this analogy?How can an uncontrolled mind lead to the destruction of knowledge?How does the wind typically help a boat, and what happens when it is adverse?What is the broader lesson Bhagavan conveys about the mind's role in spiritual progress?Sloka 68 - Mastering the MindWhat segment is Bhagavan concluding in this sloka?What topics did Bhagavan discuss starting from sloka 58?What will Bhagavan talk about in the last four slokas (69 to 72)?Why is the word "Tasmāt" important in this context?How does sense control contribute to spiritual growth?What does "nigṛhītāni" imply about the state of the sense organs?What should the sense organs be controlled from?How does Bhagavan suggest we can know if our knowledge is firmly established?What is Shastra's stance on suppression of sense organs?How do some Western psychologists misinterpret the concept of sense control in Eastern religions?What is the difference between suppression, uncontrolled expression, and intelligent regulation?What is the desired outcome of channelizing sensory and mental energy?What is the relationship between Shamaha, Damaha, and Nidhidhyasanam?What benefits arise from combining the "oushada" (medicine) and "pathiyam" (diet)?What does "prajñah pratiṣṭhitā" signify?Sloka 69 - Awake to ImmortalityWhat does Bhagavan refer to as "night", and who is awake on that?Explain how a jñāni is described as "awake" on what is considered "night" for ajñānis. What does this reveal about the jñāni's perception of reality?How does Shankaracharya interpret the concepts of day and night in the context of Advaita and Dvaita?What distinguishes a jñāni from an ajñāni in their perception of reality?In what ways does the day-night analogy help elucidate the philosophical concepts of Advaita (non-duality) and Dvaita (duality)?Discuss the implications of seeing Advaita (non-duality) as "day" for a jñāni and Dvaita (duality) as "night" for an ajñāni. How does this impact their respective experiences of the world?Explain the implications of the analogy involving the rope and the snake as discussed in the interpretation.

Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 62 (Contd...) - Eight rung fall - Consequences of Uncontrolled SensesWhat are the three progressive stages that lead from viṣaya dhyānam to kāma, and how do they relate to each other?How does constant dwelling on sense objects (viṣaya dhyānam) lead to the development of fancy (saṅgaḥ)?How does the unfulfilled desire (kāma) lead to anger (krōdha)?How can understanding the progression from viṣaya dhyānam to kāma and krōdha help in managing one's mental state and reactions?What practical steps can one take to break the cycle of viṣaya dhyānam leading to kāma and then to krōdha?What is the ultimate impact of uncontrolled desires and anger on one's spiritual journey and attainment of Jñāna Nishta?Sloka 63 - Consequences of Anger and DelusionHow does anger lead to a state of delusion or non-discrimination?How does anger make a person lose their sense of decency and propriety?Why do some people take pride in their inability to control their actions when angry?Why is anger referred to as a form of madness in certain cultures?What results from saṃmōhaḥ (delusion)?How does the loss of memory (smṛtivibhramaḥ) occur due to delusion?How does delusion cause a loss of memory related to Shastra teachings and cultural values?What is the importance of smṛti (memory) in retaining and applying learned knowledge and experiences?How does anger act as a virus for our mental processes, affecting our memory and behavior?What follows the loss of memory?How does the loss of smṛti (memory) lead to buddhināśaḥ (loss of discrimination)?What is the difference between temporary and permanent loss of discrimination?How does Bhagavan describe the ultimate consequence of losing discrimination?How does Shankaracharya explain the significance of buddhi in maintaining one's humanity and ability to achieve puruṣārthās?What are the eight stages of the ladder of human fall?Describe the progression from viṣaya dhyānam to praṇāśaḥ (perishing).How can maintaining thought discipline (Shamaha) prevent the initiation and progression of this fall?Discuss the importance of being deliberate in every action and thought as a preventive measure.How does the quality of one’s life depend on the usage of buddhi ?Why is buddhi considered more important than material wealth in determining the quality of life?What are the broader implications of losing buddhi for one’s current and future lives?How does failure to maintain mental control lead to more entanglement in samsara (the cycle of birth and death)?Sloka 64 - Benefit of Mental Discipline (Shamaha)What is the essence of Sloka 64?What does a person with sensory and mental discipline attain?Why is mental discipline important for achieving goals in life?How does mental control help in attaining jñāna nishta according to the context?What does “rāga-dveṣha-viyuktais tu” mean?Why should sense organs be free from likes and dislikes?How should the sense organs relate to the intellect?Why is it important to have control over sense organs?What is the consequence of not having control over one’s sense organs and mind?How is self-control related to saying no to harmful habits?What does “vidhēyātmā” mean?Why is having control over one’s mind the most important?What does “prasādam adhigachchhati” mean?What is the significance of tranquility or prasādam in this context?How does the prasādam, or tranquility, benefit a person according to the next sloka?Sloka 65 - Establishment of Knowledge Through Tranquil MindWhat is the significance of having a tranquil mind? How does it relate to the establishment of jñāna?Explain the term "prasādaḥ". How does prasādaḥ relate to mental peace and spiritual growth?Discuss the two possible meanings of the destruction of dukham mentioned in Sloka 65. How are they relevant to spiritual practice?How does mental tranquility pave the way for the establishment of jñāna nishta (steadfast knowledge)?

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?

Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 29 (Contd...) - Atma Jnana is a wonderWhat are the 6 things that are āścaryam?jñānam āścaryam & jnātha āścaryam=================================How is Ātma jñāna Asādāranam?Is the Ātma jñāna teaching about something new?In the 10 friends crossing the river story-- Why did the person fail to count 10?- Why did he not count himself?- Was he foolish?- What was the reason that he was looking for the 10th man outside?- When he was made to know the 10th did he learn something new?- What did he get as a result of this episode?- After getting the knowledge, was he relieved of sorrow?Is Brahman a new substance revealed by Vēdānta?How is the Ātma to be understood from the definition of "I"?How is Atma to be understood as against the other objects?Why is ātma jñāni a wonder (rare)?How is the same idea given in Kathōpaniṣad?Upadesha āścaryam & Upadeshta āścaryam=======================================Difficulty in explaining ātma When can we describe an object?According to our Shastras, what are the 4 basis characterisitics on which an object can be described?What is the example of describing an object based on kriya (action)?What is the example of describing an object based on guna (nature)?What is the example of describing an object based on dravyam (ingredients)?What is the example of describing an object based on sambandam (relation)?Can we describe ātma using any of the 4 above?Can ātma be objectified by senses?Can ātma be conceived by mind?Is ātma perceptible?What does the Upanishad verse "yatho vacho nivartante aprāpya manasā saha" mean?Are there many people explaining ātma jnana?Shravanam āścaryam & Shrotha āścaryam======================================Difficulty in understanding ātma Can anyone be a born jnani (non-samsari)?What are people deluded on?What is the meaning of "dvandwa mohena"?Do we need to be taught to be a samsari?Do we need to be trained to get angry?Do we need to be trained to become jealous?Is discontentment inherent in all of us?Do then people come for Spirituality?Within those who come to Spirituality, how many come to know about Moksha?Within those who know about Moksha, how many come to vedanta?Within those who come to Vedanta, how many know the steps to get Atma Jnana?What are the steps to get atma moksha?What is the pramana for atma jnana?The Sloka==========How do we need to understand the word "paśyati" ?How can we take "seeing" to be "understanding"?If "āśhcharya-vat" is considered to be an adverb, what do we understand the sloka?If "āśhcharya-vat" is considered to be an adjective, what do we understand the same sloka?How can the first line be understood as "Some see this ātma as a wonder"?How can the first line be understood as "Rarely Someone see this ātma"?How can the second line be understood as "Someone speaking (teaching) about ātma is a wonder"?How can the second line be understood as "Rarely Someone speaks (teaches) about this ātma"?How can the third line be understood as "Someone hearing (listening) about ātma is a wonder"?How can the third line be understood as "Rarely Someone hears (listens) about this ātma"?What does Bhagavan say in the fourth line?Why do "Some never understand this atma, in spite of hearing"?

Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 28 - What is Birth and What is Death?What is the essence of this sloka?Why do we need to understand death?What are we ignorant about?What is creation?Can there be an effect without a cause?Can things appear & disappear on its own?What does vyakta and avyakta mean?What is the unmanifest state of a tree?How is the seed different from tree?Is birth considered the manifest state or the unmanifest state?What do we call when a thing changes from avyakta to vyakta state?What is birth?What is the physical body made of?Where does the physical body's creation, sustenance and dissolution happen?Why is sleep called Nitya pralayam?What is death?What is Brahma's day?How many Chatur yugas make a Kalpa?What happens during pralaya?Is there total destruction at anytime?Is Vedanta against the law of conservation of matter and energy?Can Ishvara create anything out of nothing?What is body creation then?What is our delusion in terms of birth and death?Will atma have a manifest and unmanifest state?What are the 2 states of anatma?What is the advantage of knowing about death?What should be our attitude towards things that are constant?What is our problem with regards to accepting the change?How does Bhagavan explain the cycle of birth and death in this sloka?And what is the lesson he wants us to take from this understanding?How should we overcome grief?Sloka 29 - Atma Jnana is a wonderWhat is the essence of this sloka?From which upanishad is this sloka picked from?What are the three points that Bhagavan wants to convey in this sloka?What are the 2 meanings for the word āścarya?What is an example of an unusual event?What is an example of a rare event?How is Ātma jñāna Asādāranam?How do we generally learn about anything?What is one common thing about all the things that we have learnt so far?What does Shastra say we must do to attain Moksha?How is knowledge of atma different from all other things that we have learnt?Why is Ātma jñāna Asādāranam?What are the three things that human beings look for in this world?Does everyone come to spirituality?Does everyone who come to spirituality get to know about Brahman or atma?Does everyone who get to know Brahman or atma know that is the very subject and that it cannot be experienced?Where is the fulfillment, security and happiness that we look for in this world is actually present?Does a person need punya to come into vedanta?is it fair to say that the self knowledge is the greatest wonder?

Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 26 (Contd) - Bhagavan's advice to Arjuna if atma is constantly born and dyingWhat is kṣaṇika vijñāna vādaḥ? What happens to atma in this case?What hypothetical argument (abhyupetya vādaḥ) does Bhagavan present to Arjuna?Does Bhagavan say atma will die?What is the intent of Bhagavan when he presents different forms of argument?What does Bhagavan say if the atma is constantly born and dying?How does Bhagavan negate that scenario?Should Arjuna grieve if the atma is constantly born and dying?How does Bhagavan call Arjuna here?Sloka 27 - What is born has to die; What dies has to be born!Why is this an important verse?What is certain for one who is born?What does druvam mean?What are the 3 pramāṇās by which we can understand death is certain?How does pratyakṣa pramāṇā help us understand this?How does anumāna pramāṇā help us understand this?How does sastra pramāṇā help us understand this?How does the analogy of flame and oil relate with life and karma?Until when the body lives in this world?What is the difference between understanding and assimilation?What is the general trend of Asuras asking for boon in Puranic stories?Does Ishvara or Brahma ji grant immortality?How does Hiraṇyakaśipu seek immortality?Can anyone escape death?How do we indicate departure of avathāra?How do we indicate departure of Sannyasi?What is certain for one who dies?Is there a concept of eternal hell and eternal heaven in our religion?Why is Capital punishment possible?What does punarapi jananam punarapi maraṇam mean?What do we need to do after getting this knowledge?What does aparihāryē arthē mean?What should be our attitude towards remedyless situation?Are all situations choiceless?How is past a choiceless situation?How is present a choiceless situation?How are many things in future choiceless situations?Should we try to change a situation?If we are not able to change the situation then what should we do?After we put the effort and the situation does ot change then what should we do?Will we ever know which situations can be changed and which cannot be changed?When will the mind accept a situation?How do we get mental strength?Is the situation the reason for our sorrow or the inability to accept the situation the reason for our sorrow?How does our likes and dislikes impact our sorrow?If an event is the cause for our sorrow then should we not feel the sorrow whenever and wherever it occurs?What happens if there is a resistance to a situation?What is Samsara?Will we feel bad if the neighbour's son is not studying well or behaving properly?Will we feel bad if the neighbour's son is not studying well or behaving properly?Is Sorrow far away or within us?How does Physical discomfort become sorrow?How are pain and sorrow distinguished?How is Titiksha important with regards to acceptance?

Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 23 - Pancha Bhootas cannot destroy Atma How does Bhagavan convey that the atma is avinashi in this sloka?What are the four elements that can affect objects in the creation?What cannot cut the atma?What cannot burn the atma?What cannot drown the atma?What cannot dry the atma?Sloka 24 - Atma feature SummaryHow does Bhagavan conclude the section of atma?From which sloka did Bhagavan start giving the features of atma?Which sloka is repeated in the first line of this sloka?What cannot be cut by weapons?What canot be burnt?What does dāhyaḥ mean?Why is our body called dehaha?What cannot be wet or drowned by water?What cannot be dried up?Is immortality to be got or is it our true nature?What is our innermost urge?How do we try to remain long after even our body is gone?If something is unnatural, do we accept or reject?Do we complain if we are happy?Why do we complain when we are unhappy?What happens when anything unnatural enters our body?How does our eyes react?How does our nose react?How does our stomach react?How does our skin react?How does a lady's body react when she is pregnant?Is that considered natural?What is the word to denote that atma is all pervading?Why does Bhagavan not take Neivedhya?What does sthāṇuḥ mean?What changes in this creation?How does the body change over the years? Who has the name Sthāṇuḥnāthaḥ?What does acalaḥ mean?How do we derive atma is akarta and abhokta?What is the meaning of the word sanātanaḥ?Why is Hinduism called sanātana dharma?What are the 2 topics that Hinduism deal in?Which portion of the vedas deal with Dharma?Which portion of the vedas deal with Brahman?Which contains the religion portion of Hindusim?Which contains the philosophy portion of Hinduism?Has Dharma changed over the years?Has Brahman changed over the years?Has Bhagavad Gita stayed relevant over so many years?Has science or medicine remained the same over these years?Will Vedas become obsolete?What is the concept of Upakrama and Upasamhara?Sloka 25 - One cannot grieve after Knowing features of AtmaWhat does Avyaktaḥ mean?Can atma be perceived by sensory organs?Can atma be perceived through śabda, sparśa, rūpa, rasa and gandha?What does Acintyaḥ mean?Can atma be conveived through mind like how we feel anger, love etc.?How is Apramēya is equal ti avyaktaḥ + acintyaḥ?What does Bhagavan mean when He says ucyatē?How does that increase our shraddha in our shastras?What does Na anuśhochitum arhasi mean?Why do we not have the right to feel sad about atma?What is the 3 pronged strategy that Bhagavan uses to remove the sadness from Arjuna's mind?What is the highest knowledge that Bhagavan gives here?Where will Bhagavan give the next steps of knowledge?What happens if we do not understand these concepts now?Sloka 26 - Bhagavan's advice to Arjuna if atma is constantly born and dyingHow do we bring comfort to a person who is grieving?Can we ask them not to feel sad without giving them a reason?Can we downplay their emotion?Does Vedanta impose its concepts on others?

Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 22 - Atma remains whilst the bodies changeWhat example does Bhagavan use to denote death and re-birth?What is compared to the physical body?What is compared to the dress?Which body is the abode of papa and punya?Which body is called the Bhoga Sādānam?Which body is called the Bhoga āyatanam?What determines the kind of body we take?What determines how long the body is kept?What is Prarbda Karma?What is Sanchita Karma?What is Aagami Karma?What determines our body, parents, childhood & upbringing?What does a person's horoscope indicate?When does the jiva consider the body to be jīrṇam?Is Anayasena maranam in our hands?Why has Ishvara made death a secret?

Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 20 (Contd...) - Atma is free from the 6 modificationsIs this sloka also taken from Katoponishad?Why has the meter been changed for this sloka?What are the shad vikaaraha (6-fold changes)?What does asti mean?What does Jayate mean?What does Vardhate mean?What does viparinamate mean?What does apakshiyate mean?What does vinashyati mean?What does Bhagavan say about atma?What does na jāyatē mean?What does na mriyatē mean?What does na bhūtvā mean?What does na abhavitā bhūyaḥ mean?What does ajaḥ mean?What does nityaḥ mean?What does śāśvataḥ mean?What does purāṇaḥ mean?What does na hanyatē mean?What does Bhagavan negate when he says "na bhūtvā na abhavitā bhūyaḥ"?What does Bhagavan negate when he says "na jāyatē"?What does Bhagavan negate when he says "purāṇaḥ"?What does Bhagavan negate when he says "na hanyatē"?What does Bhagavan negate when he says "śāśvataḥ"?What does Bhagavan negate when he says "na mriyatē"?Sloka 21 - Atma is neither the doer nor the instigatorWhat are the 2 types of action?What does kartaḥ mean?What does kārayitaḥ mean?How does Bhagavan explain this principle about atma not being the instigator?Whom does Bhagavan brin to explain atma lakshana?Why does Adi Sankara consider this sloka as very significant?How is this sloka both atma lakshana as well as benefit of atma jnana?What does the word Vēdāḥ mean here?What are the 4 characteristics of atma that Bhagavan brings here?What is the rhetorical / exclamatory statement that Bhagavan uses?How is that an instigator gets 2 sins for any bad deed?If atma is the witness principle, then what is karta, bhokta & hetu karta?What are the 2 stages to recognize that I am the atma?How do we understand the consciousness principle in the first step?How does the light and hand analogy help in understanding atma-anatma relation?On what should we drop the claim of "I"?How do we claim the Consciousness to be "I"?What are the different ways of negating the body & mind to be "I"?

Chapter 02 - Sankhya YogaSloka 19 - Atma is neither the doer nor the enjoyerIf atma is akarta and abhokta, who is the karta and bhokta?Who is in Samsara?How does other philosophies differ from Advaita in terms of who is karta and bhokta?If the body and mind are inert, how does it become conscious and sentient?Where does the mind borrow the consciousness principle?Which Shareera becomes the karta & bhokta?How does Bhagavan explain this concept in this sloka?Why does Bhagavan use the example of killing?What does Bhagavan say about the one who considers atma to be the "killer"?What does Bhagavan say about the one who considers atma to be the "killed"?What are the three analogies that we can use to explain atma?How can the space be compared to atma? Which among the panch bhoothas is not capable of destroying anything?How can the light be compared to atma?How is the cinema screen compared to the atma?What is the cause for our samsara?How can we use this feature to come out of samsara?Why is this sloka and this feature of atma significant?Does atma have karma?Does atma have punyam and paapam?Does atma have punar jenma?If atma does not have punyam and paapam, why are we doing shraddham and tarpanam?Does a jnani need to shraddham or tarpanam?Does a jnani have punar jenma?Sloka 20 - Atma is free from the 6 modificationsIs this sloka also taken from Katoponishad?Why has the meter been changed for this sloka?What are the shad vikaaraha (6-fold changes)?What does asti mean?What does Jayate mean?What does Vardhate mean?What does viparinamate mean?What does apakshiyate mean?What does vinashyati mean?

Sloka 17 - Atma is Changeless Eternal (Kootastha Nityam) and Un-objectifiable (Aprameyah)What are the 2 features of atma provided in this sloka?What are the 2 types of Nityam?How is Kootastha Nityam different from Pravaaha Nityam?Is the Universe (Jagat) Kootastha Nityam or Pravaaha Nityam and why?Is the atma Kootastha Nityam or Pravaaha Nityam?What is the meaning of the word Antah?Where is it said that the bodies belong to the Imperishable Atma?If the body is mortal, what should be our attitude towards it?On what should we identify the self to be?What is the meaning of the word Premeyaa?What do we mean by Atma Aprameyaha?If atma can never be the object of experience, can it be non-existent?What is that, which is ever existent, but which can never be known?Will the camera in which the pic was taken, be ever seen in the photograph?Is Atma the experiencer or the experienced?Can the subject be ever an object of experience?If atma cannot be experienced, it cannot be perceived by mind, and if words cannot show us the atma, then why are we listening to the class?Does the shastras say "THIS IS ATMA"?How does Shastras explain the Atma?What is the meaning of "Neti Neti"?What remains after removing anatma mixture from "I"?What does "yudhyasva" mean, according to Adi Sankara?What is the relation between doing duty and moksha?Sloka 19 - Atma is neither the doer nor the enjoyerFrom which upanishad are the slokas 19 and 20 taken from?Why does Bhagavan bring Upanishadic mantras hereWhat does akarta & abhokta mean?What is that within us, which says "I acted"?What are the 2 phalams of any action?What are the drshta and adrashta phalam of an action like daanam?What happens to drshta and adrshta phalam?Who converts the drshta/adrshta to sukham/dukham and when?Who experiences the result?How is Advaita philosophy different from other philosophies?

** Important Sloka **Sloka 16 (Contd...) - Adi Sankara' explanationWhat is Sankarar's pratigna?What does Seethoshnādi Sakaranam Asat mean?What is the reason Adi Sankara gives for Anatma to be Asat / Mitya?What does Vikaratvāt mean?What is the objection that Sankarar raise against this premise?What example does Sankarar use to negate Shoonyavaadam in a series of steps?What are the two types of buddhi according to Sankarar when we think of any object?Which among the Sat and Asat buddhi is constant?Which among the Sat and Asat buddhi keeps changing?Why can't Shoonyavaadam be true?What is the premise that Sankarar wants to establish next?What does "Nashte gade sat buddhihi na drashyate" mean?Which awareness is present at all times?Which awareness keeps changing?What happens when the pot breaks and another pot appears?Is Object buddhi satyam or Mitya?Is Existence buddhi satyam or Mitya?What happens when the pot breaks and cloth appears?What happens to the existence awareness in between the time between pot disappearing and cloth appearing?What is the main tattva / siddhanta of this philosophy?Why is nama/roopa (reflective medium) required for existence to be experienced?Can light be seen through eyes?Are we seeing light or the reflection of light?Why is outer space dark even though there is sun?Can SAT buddhi and ASAT buddhi exist at the same time?Can SAT and Mitya exist at the same time?Sloka 17 - I am impersihable, all pervading, changeless, formless ONEHow do we establish that atma is Sarvagataha (all pervading)?Can time and space be separated?Does law of nature allow 2 things to be at the same place at the same time?If atma is Nityaha (eternal from a time perspective) then how should atma be from space standpoint?If atma is all pervading, can it have a form or shape?What is the analogy that can be used to explain the formless nature of Atma?Why can't we see the atma?If atma is all pervading, how many atmas can be there?How many spaces can be there?What does avināśi mean?How is Bhagavan explaining Atma Nityaha in this sloka?When the pot gets destroyed, does the clay get destroyed too?What is the meaning of the word Vidhdi?Can atma be destroyed?Does atma change?Can Ishvara destroy atma?What happens to atma when body gets destroyed?What is the meaning of the word "Vyayaha"?What are the 2 reasons given by Sankarar for atma to be Avyayaha?What can go into decay?Can decay be avoided for those which has avyayam?What happens when the thing that we have abhimaana on decay?Does atma think anything to be its?Does atma have abhimana on anything?Which has abhimana / attachment on things?

** Important Sloka **Sloka 16 (Contd...) - Atma Satyaha Anatma MityaHow are Kaarana and Karya related?What are the differences between Atma and Anatma?How do we establish Atma is satya and Anatma is mitya using Avastha Thraya Viveka?How do we establish anatma is mitya using nirvikaraha principle?How do we establish the world is mitya using nirvikaraha principle?How do we see the body and the world?Why is the world appearing as saashvata?Will the world disppaear once we recognize it as Mitya? What is the equivalent analogy?Will Brahman appear once we recognize it as Satyam? What is the equivalent analogy?Can one understand only one statement and not the other - "Brahma Satyam" & "Jagat Mitya"?Can "Satyam" & "Mitya" be understood independently?Should anything that is ever existent be available for experience?Why does Bhagavan want to give us this knowledge that the world is Mitya?How do we need to handle the world?What should be the thought in our sub-conscious mind always?How does Adi Sankara approach this sloka?What is his initial hypothesis (Pratigna)?How does he explain that the world is mitya? What is the reason he gives?How does he he split the thought into 2 parts?

** Important Sloka **Sloka 16 - Atma SatyahaWhat is the essence of entire Gita?Why should we not self-study Gita and Vedanta?Will there be existence for the unreal?Will there be non-existence for the real?Who understands the truth of these both statements?What are the two types of Asat?What is Atyanta Asat?What is Mitya?What is the definition of the term Mitya?What is the famous example in Vedanta for understanding Sat-Mitya?Can the snake be called Asat?Can the snake be called Sat?How do Ajnanis differentiate between Sat and Asat?And how do Ajnanis stretch that defintion to the world and Ishvara?Can being object of experience be the criteria for deciding whether it is real or not?What are the 2 conditions for an object to be called Sat?What are the 2 conditions for an object to be called Mitya?What are the other examples of Sat/Mitya?When we talk of Shadow, when someone stamps on our shadow, is it equivalent of them stamping us?Suppose the shadow passes through an open drainage, will we feel that we are going through the drainage?In the rope-snake example, is rope Satyam or Mitya?In the rope-snake example, is snake Satyam or Mitya?What is the difference between rope-snake and mirage example?What is Kaarana-Kaarya Tattva?Which is Satyam and which is Mitya in Kaarana-Kaarya Tattva?How is Samsara defined with regards to Kaarana-Karya?

Sloka 14 (Contd..) - Endurance & Patience are to be cultivated What is the cause for sorrow? Is the situation giving us trouble or sorrow? Is pain and sorrow only for some people? Are there people who do not face failure? How did Bhagavan Rama react when he was coronated? How did Bhagavan Rama react when he was asked to go to forest? How do we need to react when we face success / failure / joy / sorrow? What is the virtue that we should develop to get Moksha? What happens if one does not have tolerance or patience? What happens when sense organs come in contact with sense objects? Can we avoid the interaction between sense organs and sense objects? What are the 3 different levels of pairs of opposites that we experience? Does these pairs of opposites give us the same experience at all times? Does air-conditioner give us pleasure at all times? Do these experiences stay forever? What does Bhagavan want to convey in this sloka? Do painful / sad situations last forever? Do joyful situations / enjoyment last forever? What should be our attitude when they arrive and when they depart? What is the advantage if we understand this well? Why do we get fear? What does Bhagavan ask us to when we experience the pairs of opposites? And how should we endure them? If we grumble / complain / criticize when we endure them, is it called Titiksha? What kind of sense objects are capable of giving us the experiences? Is acceptance easy to achieve? Is acceptance a mental function or an intellect function? What are the supporting arguments that Bhagavan gives us for us to accept? What should be our approach towards situations that give us sorrow / pain? What does Bhagavan want to convey to Arjuna through this sloka? Sloka 15 - Benefit of Endurance & Patience What is the benefit of being patient? What does one gain when a sadaka develops an attitude of acceptance? What is mental endurance? How can we develop titiksha? What happens if we react immediately? Where does it lead to if we react immediately? What happens to a person who is not disturbed by sense objects? How is a person be able to remain equanimous in pain & pleasure? Can we remain equinamous if the feeling enters the mind? Where should we put the gate? What does Bhagavan call the person who is able to remain equanimous? What does he qualify for if he is able to remain equanimous? How is anger within different levels of people? To whom does anger stay only for a moment? To whom does anger stay for 1.5 hrs? To whom does anger stay for an entire day and night? To whom does anger stay lifelong? Does Titiskha mean total freedom from reaction? Why is Tititksha important for vedantic study?

Sloka 13 - Atma Nirvikaraha - I am changeless What does Nirvikaraha mean? What are Jiva's components? Which is sentient principle and which is not a sentient principle? How does light reflect on rock, water and mirror? How is the physical body compared to the 3 examples above? How is the subtle body compared to the 3 examples above? Until when does the mind reflect atma? What are Jiva's components now? What is Chidhabhaasa? What is death? Is the physical body destroyed after death? Is the subtle body destroyed after death? Is the causal body destroyed after death? If the mind is inert, how does it move to take another body? Where does the mind get the sentiency from? Where does the body get the sentiency from? How is eternal defined in terms of changeless? When does the physical body undergo change? Do I change my identity when the physical body changes? When does the subtle body change? Will our likes and dislikes be the same when we take a new physical body? Does the atma change when death happens? Will a wise man worry over the changing physical and subtle bodies? Sloka 14 - Attitude towards anatma How does Bhagavan address Arjuna's sorrow from various levels? Generally speaking, are we sad on account of atma's death or anatma's death? What is Samsara? When does sorrow happen? What changes in this world? Is change bringing us sorrow? Why should we accept the change?