Book Reviewed: The Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation and Study Guide by Nicholas Sutton

Revisiting the teachings of Bhagavad-Gita The problem with an English translation of the Bhagavad-Gita is that it tends to be either too literal to the Sanskrit text which would obscure the intended meaning, or it is translated to strengthen a particular philosophical perspective. Modern English translators like Nicholas Sutton tend to be closer to the meaning of the sacred texts but lacks the poetic touch. One of the challenges is that the translations cannot be entirely separated from interpretations since different meaning is derived from similar construction of words, and thus tend to reflect the translator's own philosophical orientation. Major commentaries due to Shankaracharya, Ramanujacharya, Madhvacharya and later followers of Samkhya and Vedanta philosophies stretch the meaning of the Sacred Word. The author of this book illustrates this point with a good discussion of various translations and commentaries. The idea of good and bad occurring in life is due to previous actions (or karma) in a prior life, in the endless cycle of birth, death and rebirth. Hindu scriptures like Bhagavad-Gita and Upanishads teaches us the way one can put an end to this cycle i.e., release from rebirth (Moksha). The teachings are based on the concept of dharma or duty that should be performed without desire for personal gain. The practice of dharmic duty represents worshiping God who is the creator of dharma. Dharma is not just a series of tasks one ought to perform but it should a part of one's very nature. it reflects a person's inner nature (Sva-bhava) generated because of past karma. Karma influences the three gunas (qualities) over human action and thus lead the life’s sufferings (Samkhya Philosophy). The Bhagavad-Gita teaches that it is not the action but the selfish desire that prompts it must be renounced. In this way, the performance of dharmic duty becomes compatible with escaping from the cycle of good and bad karma. Gita also teaches that spiritual knowledge (jnana) and the practice of devotion (bhakti) to Lord Krishna also help us overcome previous karma to seek release from rebirth. This book reads well, and the discussion of various translations and commentaries are well presented.