The Bhagavad Gita
Religious Studies: KS3, topic 2.2.6
The Bhagavad Gita
Prince Arjuna & Lord Krishna
- The Bhagavad Gita is one of the most important holy books in Hinduism.
- It is part of a larger story called the Mahabharata, an ancient Indian epic.
- The book is written as a conversation between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna.
- Krishna speaks to Arjuna when he feels afraid and unsure about fighting in a great battle.
- Through their talk, Krishna teaches deep lessons about life, duty, and faith.
Dharma
- Krishna tells Arjuna that everyone has their own duty (dharma) in life.
- Doing your duty, even when it is hard, helps bring balance to the world.
- Dharma means doing what is right, fair, and honest.
- Arjuna learns that he must follow his duty as a warrior, even though he is afraid.
- Krishna explains that people should act without selfishness, focusing on what is right.
Bhakti and Moksha
- Krishna teaches that people can reach freedom for their soul (moksha), by showing devotion (bhakti) to God.
- Moksha means being released from the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
- True devotion means loving and trusting God completely.
- Krishna says that love, kindness, and faith bring people closer to the divine.
- The Bhagavad Gita teaches that a peaceful and devoted life leads to true happiness.
Test yourself on The Bhagavad Gita
Who gives the teachings in the Bhagavad Gita?
What does the word dharma mean?
What is moksha in Hindu belief?
What did Krishna teach about devotion (bhakti)?