The Yoga of the Imperishable Absolute
Summary:
Chapter 8 of the Bhagavad Gita, titled “Akshara Brahma Yoga” or “The Yoga of the Imperishable Absolute,” delves into the nature of the eternal, unchanging reality and the process of attaining it. This chapter addresses profound questions about life, death, and the ultimate goal of human existence.
The chapter begins with Arjuna asking Lord Krishna to clarify several key concepts: Brahman (the Absolute), Adhyatma (the individual soul), Karma (action), Adhibhuta (the physical world), Adhidaiva (the divine), and Adhiyajna (the Lord of sacrifice). Arjuna also inquires about the significance of remembering the divine at the time of death.
Krishna responds by explaining these concepts in detail:
- Brahman (the Absolute): Krishna describes Brahman as the imperishable, eternal reality that underlies all existence. It is beyond birth and death, unchanging, and the ultimate source of all creation.
- Adhyatma (the individual soul): The individual soul (Atman) is the eternal essence within each being. It is a part of the supreme Brahman and is the true self that transcends the physical body and mind.
- Karma (action): Karma refers to the actions performed by individuals, which are driven by their desires and intentions. These actions create impressions (samskaras) that influence future experiences and rebirths.
- Adhibhuta (the physical world): The physical world consists of the perishable elements and forms that make up the material universe. It is subject to change and decay.
- Adhidaiva (the divine): Adhidaiva refers to the divine cosmic principles and deities that govern the natural forces and elements of the universe.
- Adhiyajna (the Lord of sacrifice): Adhiyajna is the supreme divine presence within all sacrificial acts. It is the aspect of the divine that receives and sanctifies all offerings and rituals.
Krishna then addresses the importance of the moment of death. He explains that the thoughts and consciousness at the time of death play a crucial role in determining the soul’s future journey. Those who remember the divine with unwavering devotion at the time of death attain the supreme abode and are liberated from the cycle of birth and death.
Krishna emphasizes the practice of constant remembrance and meditation on the divine. He advises Arjuna to focus the mind and heart on the divine at all times, cultivating a state of unwavering devotion. By doing so, one can ensure that their final thoughts are centered on the divine, leading to liberation.
Krishna introduces the concept of “Om,” the sacred syllable that represents the ultimate reality. He explains that chanting “Om” with devotion and concentration at the time of death leads to union with the supreme Brahman.
The chapter also explores the different paths to liberation. Krishna describes the two paths that souls take after death: the path of light (Shukla Gati) and the path of darkness (Krishna Gati). The path of light leads to liberation and union with the divine, while the path of darkness leads to rebirth and continued existence in the material world. Those who have attained knowledge and devotion follow the path of light and are freed from the cycle of rebirth.
Krishna concludes the chapter by emphasizing the importance of devotion and the practice of yoga. He assures Arjuna that those who understand and follow these teachings with faith and devotion will attain the highest state of spiritual realization and eternal peace.
In summary, Chapter 8 of the Bhagavad Gita, “Akshara Brahma Yoga,” provides profound insights into the nature of the eternal, unchanging reality and the process of attaining it. Krishna explains key concepts such as Brahman, the individual soul, and the significance of thoughts at the time of death. He emphasizes the practice of constant remembrance and devotion to the divine, the importance of chanting “Om,” and the different paths to liberation. This chapter serves as a guide for seekers to cultivate unwavering devotion, understand the nature of the eternal self, and attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death.