Class Summary for Oct 3, 2023 - Chapter-2 Slokas 1 - 10
Summarized by: Sowmya Vasudevan
The class started off with discussing about FIR journal - Frequency, intensity, and recovery journal. This journal is used to track and reflect on one's emotional experiences over time. Here's a summary of the key points mentioned:
Frequency: The journal aims to track how often individuals experience deep or intense emotions during a week. This is done to gain insights into the frequency of such emotional experiences.
Intensity Scale: Intensity of emotions is measured on a scale of 1-5, with 5 representing the most intense emotions. This scale helps individuals gauge how strongly they feel these emotions.
Recovery Time Scale: Recovery time measures how long it takes to recover from deep emotional states and is rated on a scale of 0-5, with 5 indicating a prolonged recovery period.
Key points for Journaling
Incorporating Sadhanas: The discussion suggests that many spiritual or self-improvement practices (referred to as "sadhana") may remain distant until they become an integral part of our lives. The advice given is to remember and carry forward these practices when they come to mind.
Establishing Cadence: The concept of establishing a cadence in our lives implies making these practices a regular and consistent part of our routine.
Recording in a Phone Journal: It's recommended to jot down intense emotional experiences in a phone journal as soon as they occur. This practice can help individuals track their emotional patterns over time.
Stress Relief: Journaling is presented as a beneficial tool for relieving stress and gaining insights into emotional well-being.
In summary, the FIR journal is a tool for self-reflection and self-awareness, helping individuals monitor and manage their emotional experiences with the aim of enhancing their personal development and potential over time.
Slokas 1-3 :
Arjuna's emotional state is described as one of distress and inner turmoil, symbolized by words like "crushed," "crumbled," and "silently weeping."
The term "Kripaya" is used to suggest that Arjuna is deeply attached to his family and is crippled by self-pity and excessive compassion, which hinders his decision-making.
Lord Krishna encourages Arjuna to surrender and seek true knowledge, emphasizing the central theme of the Gita, where Krishna imparts spiritual wisdom to help Arjuna fulfill his duties as a warrior.
Arjuna is referred to as "un-Aryan," implying that he needs to mature and become more balanced and evolved in his approach to fulfill his duties.
Addressing Arjuna as "Partha" reminds him of his lineage and the valor of his parents, encouraging him to uphold his family's honor.
Lord Krishna's use of "Parantapa" implores Arjuna to conquer his inner weaknesses and doubts, as it means "the scorcher of foes."
The term "Klaibyam" characterizes Arjuna as impotent or weak, motivating him to act and overcome his current state of despair and indecision.
Gurudev’s summary: Do not succumb to cowardice, as it does not align with your true nature. Stand up and act. Running away from a situation will not resolve it; instead, it will continue to follow you. The source of the problem often lies within your own mindset, so no matter where you go, it will persist. To bring about change in your external circumstances, begin by changing yourself. So, get up and act!
Subjective Analysis:
When our intellect engages in pointless arguments, our true self or "ATMA" remains silent. However, when the intellect surrenders and becomes receptive, it can unite with our true self to find the correct solution. This suggests that inner peace and clarity can be attained when we let go of fruitless mental debates and allow our inner wisdom to guide us toward the right decisions.
TIP: Meditation and Japa (repetition of a mantra or prayer) are practices often used to quiet the mind and enhance clarity of thought. By focusing the mind and reducing mental chatter, these practices can create a state of inner calm and tranquility. In this state, individuals may find it easier to make thoughtful and right decisions because they are not clouded by distractions or excessive mental noise. When the intellect surrenders to the higher Supreme Consciousness, it can transcend the influence of Vasanas and arrive at the correct solution to various life situations.
Slokas 4-8
Arjuna, despite Lord Krishna's pleas and guidance, is reluctant to fulfill his role as a Grihastha (householder) and is considering giving up his warrior duties to become a beggar. His hesitation is driven by his moral dilemma and reluctance to commit the perceived sin of killing his elders and teachers on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
Arjuna expresses his distress by saying that he feels like he will be consumed or "burnt" by his worries, using the term "Kaarpanyam" to convey his sense of helplessness and self-pity. In this state of profound emotional turmoil and realization of his own limitations, Arjuna sheds his ego and surrenders to the guidance of Lord Krishna. He implores Lord Krishna to become his teacher and seeks wisdom and guidance from the divine.
Gurudev Video
The Shreyas path -
Prosperity often refers to the state of being successful, flourishing, or having an abundance of wealth or resources. However, prosperity in a closed economic system (where the total amount of money remains constant) may come at the expense of others. In other words, if one person becomes more prosperous, it could imply that others become comparatively poorer. The term "Shreyas" refers to a path or way that leads to the greater good, well-being, or ultimate good. It often emphasizes moral, ethical, and altruistic values. Arjuna's request for teachings from Lord Krishna on the Shreyas Path is a central theme in the Gita.
Subjective Analysis
When individuals closely identify with their "pseudo self" or ego, they may experience confusion and limitations. However, dedicating oneself to a higher ideal or goal, often associated with transcending the ego, can lead to liberation and a sense of freedom. By surrendering the intellect and engaging in the spiritual practices of meditation and Japa, individuals can cultivate inner peace, clarity, and a more positive mindset.
The following three-step emphasizes the importance of both acquiring knowledge and actively applying it through practical spiritual practices to overcome negative influences and achieve a higher state of being.
Shravanam: This step involves studying, reading, or listening to sacred scriptures or teachings. By immersing oneself in these spiritual texts and absorbing their wisdom, individuals gain a deeper understanding of spiritual principles.
Mananam: After acquiring knowledge through Shravanam, the next step is to reflect on and contemplate the teachings. Mananam involves thinking deeply about the spiritual concepts learned during Shravanam. It allows individuals to internalize and clarify their understanding.
Nididhyasam: The final step, Nididhyasam, involves practicing Sadhanas (spiritual practices or disciplines) regularly. These practices are aimed at applying the spiritual knowledge gained through Shravanam and Mananam in daily life. Consistent Sadhana helps individuals transform their behaviors and attitudes, ultimately leading to personal growth and a higher goal in life.
Preyas actions are often impulsive and driven by immediate gratification, while Shreyas actions are guided by a deeper understanding of what is truly beneficial and in alignment with one's higher self or spiritual path.
Shlokas 9-10
Arjuna, the warrior, and representative of the human mind, undergoes a profound transformation and surrenders to Lord Krishna, the intellect, seeking His guidance and support. Here's a breakdown of the key points:
Total Surrender: Arjuna reaches a state of complete surrender, recognizing his own limitations and the need for divine guidance. This surrender signifies a willingness to submit his will and ego to a higher power, which is Lord Krishna in this context.
Gudakesha: The term "Gudakesha" is used to describe Arjuna and is often interpreted to mean "the conqueror of sleep." It signifies Arjuna's strength and discipline, highlighting his ability to conquer physical and mental challenges.
Hrishikesha: Arjuna surrenders to "Hrishikesha," a name for Lord Krishna, which means "the master of mind and senses." This emphasizes Krishna's mastery over the human mind and senses, making Him the ideal guide and source of comfort.
Comfort and Reassurance: Arjuna's surrender to Lord Krishna is seen as a moment of profound compassion and understanding on the part of the Lord. Krishna's compassionate response to Arjuna's surrender becomes a source of strength and clarity for Arjuna. This compassionate interaction between Arjuna and Lord Krishna sets the stage for the transformative teachings and guidance that follow in the Gita.
Gurudev – Face Life
Spiritual growth and purpose can be pursued within one's current life circumstances and responsibilities, dispelling the notion that retreat from worldly duties is necessary. Even in challenging situations like Arjuna's civil war, Lord Krishna encourages seeking higher goals and maintaining the right mental attitude. By approaching daily responsibilities with a sense of duty and spirituality, individuals can purify their minds and prepare for contemplative meditation and greater spiritual achievements.
Subjective Analysis
In the Katho Upanishad, it is taught that when the false/Pseudo ego surrenders, the mind withdraws the senses, and the intellect becomes pure and guided by the divine (Brahman), one can conquer the limitations of the physical body. In a spiritual context, the "pseudo ego" represents the false or lower Self entangled in negative emotions and worldly attachments, while the "real ego" or "Higher Self" embodies a deeper, authentic identity free from negativity.
TIP: When faced with stress, it is beneficial to enhance your Sadhana, which includes increasing your practices of Shravanam (studying or listening to spiritual teachings), Mananam (reflecting on them), and Nididhyasanam (meditation). Particularly, expanding your meditation time during stressful periods facilitates disconnection from stressors and fosters a connection with your Higher Self. This prepares the mind for the Shreyas path, enabling you to move forward in life with a sense of inner peace and purpose.
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