Gita Talks

Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke)
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Gita Talks

Talks on the Bhagavad Gita by Swami Nirmalananda Giri About the Gita The Bhagavad Gita is the most popular of the scriptures of Hinduism. In this series of talks on India’s spiritual classic, Swami Nirmalananda illumines its importance for all spiritual seekers, and for yogis in particular. The Bhagavad gita is the immortal dialog between Sri Krishna and the yogi-warrior Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra on the eve of the Mahabharata war. In 700 verses, the sage Vyasa relates the teachings of Sri Krishna on the foundational philosophy and practices necessary to succeed in spiritual life. In these talks Swami Nirmalananda gives explanations of Sri Krishna’s teachings in the Gita which will be of practical value both to beginners and also to experienced students in spiritual life. Most talks are about 20 minutes long, though some are longer. About the Speaker These talks are by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke), the founder and director of the Atma Jyoti Ashram (Light of the Spirit Monastery) in Cedar Crest, New Mexico, USA. His writings are featured on the monastery’s website, OCOY.org. Swamiji has over a half a century of background in study of the world’s religions. During his first trip to India in 1963 he was given sannyas by Swami Vidyananda Giri, a direct disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda, who had himself been given sannyas by the Shankaracharya of Puri, Jagadguru Bharat Krishna Tirtha. In his many pilgrimages to India, he had the opportunity of meeting some of India’s greatest spiritual figures, including Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh and Anandamayi Ma. Swami Nirmalananda is the author of numerous books on practical spiritual life, including his own translation of the Bhagavad Gita, and his commentary on the Gita, The Bhagavad Gita for Awakening.

  1. Gita Talk 58–Qualities for Moksha

    6 天前

    Gita Talk 58–Qualities for Moksha

    The fifty-eighth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.He discusses the qualities Krishna describes as essential for a person seeking moksha (liberation) in the chapter titled "The Yoga of the Distinction Between the Field and the Knower of the Field." The focus is on distinguishing the true self from the false ego and cultivating characteristics like humility, consistency, and self-control. The talk emphasizes that desire for liberation alone is insufficient without the right qualifications and actions, contrasting Western notions of good intentions with the necessity of tangible spiritual discipline.1 Qualities for Liberation Are Essential  Krishna outlines specific characteristics required for moksha, not just optional traits; desire for liberation is meaningless without these qualifications and corresponding efforts.  Good intentions alone (e.g., "the road to hell is paved with good intentions") are inadequate—spiritual success demands real character and action.2 Absence of Pride  Pride here refers to arrogance and egotism rooted in the false ego, not the true self.  The ego is a tricky, self-deceiving entity (e.g., "My ego is proud that it’s ashamed that it’s proud"), which cannot be reformed but must be dissolved through awareness of one’s eternal, divine nature.3 Freedom from Hypocrisy  This involves authenticity—not pretending to be something one isn’t—and consistency between thoughts, words, and actions.  Examples include avoiding contradictions like claiming to love animals while eating them; true freedom from hypocrisy requires alignment in one’s life.4 Harmlessness (Ahimsa)  Ahimsa means not causing harm, but it’s not about avoiding all offense (since some people are overly sensitive or manipulative).  One should speak truth when necessary, even if it offends, without being bullied into silence by others’ reactions.5 Fortitude  Fortitude is not foolhardiness or ignorance of danger but a firm, principled resolve (e.g., Eisenhower’s "Don’t let the bastards wear you down").  It involves standing steady against external pressures and internal weaknesses, discerning true threats to spiritual life.6 Rectitude  Rectitude is unwavering correctness—avoiding compromise or "little white lies"—and standing upright in one’s principles.  It requires courage to do what’s right without bending under pressure.7 Approaching a Teacher  Acknowledging the need to learn, whether from a living teacher, books, or experience, is vital; no one knows everything inherently (e.g., the Ethiopian official in The Book of Acts needing explanation of scripture).  Gratitude for teachers is also emphasized as a sign of humility and growth.8 Purity  Purity encompasses moral integrity (e.g., truthfulness, kindness via Yama and Niyama) and physical purity (e.g., avoiding meat, alcohol, or drugs).  Substances like LSD, once falsely touted as consciousness-expanding, damage the nervous system, showing purity’s practical importance.

    21 分鐘
  2. Gita Talk 57–The Field and Its Knower

    2月22日

    Gita Talk 57–The Field and Its Knower

    The fifty-seventh in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life....

    26 分鐘
  3. Gita Talk 56– Qualities of Devotion

    2月22日

    Gita Talk 56– Qualities of Devotion

    The fifty-sixth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 12:19, Swamiji discusses seeing the world with equal vision, the qualities of devotion, contentment and silence.Here is a summary of the talk "Qualities of Devotion."* Equanimity of the Yogi: The talk discusses verses from Chapter 12 of the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizing that a worthy yogi remains equanimous—treating friends and enemies, honor and disgrace, pleasure and pain alike—seeing the underlying unity in all experiences and maintaining objectivity.* Karma of Praise and Blame: Praise and blame are viewed as reflections of one’s past actions. The yogi understands that these are not necessarily true or accurate but are consequences of previous judgments made in past lives, encouraging detachment from external opinions.* Silence as a Virtue: True yogis practice silence, not as a mere act (like some "phony yogis" who advertise their silence), but as a natural state of inner stillness. The talk critiques those who use silence to gain attention rather than for genuine spiritual growth.* Non-Reactivity: A yogi knows when to remain silent and not react, even to provocative or foolish statements (e.g., denying God or criticizing yoga). The metaphor of an elephant ignoring yapping dogs illustrates this calm, unreactive nature.* Detachment from the World: The yogi avoids entanglement in worldly affairs, living quietly without disturbing or being disturbed by the world. This detachment extends to not over-identifying with material places or roles, aspiring instead to a higher consciousness.* Contentment with What Is: The yogi is content with whatever comes, not resisting uncontrollable circumstances (e.g., weather) or unnecessarily intervening in others’ self-destructive choices, recognizing that true compassion doesn’t force wisdom on the unwilling.* Avoiding Egoic Attachment: The talk highlights the importance of not clinging to ego-driven identities (e.g., nationality, personal history) that limit spiritual growth. Examples include the story of Kathleen, who died of homesickness, and Swamiji’s acquaintance who defined herself by her mother’s death.* Steady Mind and Devotion: A yogi maintains a steady mind focused on the spiritual goal, moving through life like a "woman of mystery" who comes and goes without attachment. This steadiness is fueled by devotion and gratitude for spiritual teachings like karma and rebirth.* Mutual Dearness with God: Krishna states that those who embody these qualities are dear to him, reflecting a reciprocal relationship: devotion to God makes one dear to God, while indifference yields indifference.* Warning Against Falling: The talk concludes with a cautionary tale of a yogi who abandoned a great master over fear of ridicule, illustrating the difficulty and importance of perseverance in the spiritual path. This ties into the chapter’s theme, "The Yoga of Devotion," urging steadfastness toward the ultimate goal.

    30 分鐘
  4. Gita Talk 55–Essential Spiritual Qualities

    2月22日

    Gita Talk 55–Essential Spiritual Qualities

    The fifty-fifth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the ess...

    23 分鐘
  5. Gita Talk 54–How to Be Dear to God

    2月7日

    Gita Talk 54–How to Be Dear to God

    The fifty-fourth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 12:14, Swamiji discusses not being agitated by the world, and not agitating the world. He also suggests we should analyze our spiritual surrounding and determine if they help or hinder us.Here's a summary of the talk by Swami Nirmalananda Giri on "How to be Dear to God.”* Qualities of a Beloved Yogi: Krishna describes a Yogi who is always content, self-controlled, and firm in resolve as being dear to Him.* Contentment in the Self: True contentment comes from being aware of one's eternal Self (Atma), not from external circumstances. Japa and meditation is highlighted as a way to maintain this awareness.* Self-Control and Firm Resolve: Self-control involves not being swayed by external influences but maintaining one's true nature. Firm resolve means having a steadfast commitment to spiritual growth.* Fixation of Mind and Intellect on God: One should aim to have their mind (emotions and sense impressions) and intellect (reasoning and understanding) fixed on God, creating a deep, unwavering devotion.* Devotion as Dedication: Devotion is likened to being dedicated to a purpose, where the purpose of life is the realization of the absolute. The body and mind are seen as tools for enlightenment.* Not Agitating the World: A Yogi should live without causing disturbances, focusing on personal spiritual practice rather than outward activism. This involves living one's truth quietly and not engaging in unnecessary conflict or debate.* Silence and Action in Context: There's a time for speaking and a time for silence. For Yogis, silence is often more appropriate, especially in relation to the world's ways which might not align with spiritual goals.* Avoiding Spiritual Distractions: One should avoid people or situations that distract or hinder spiritual progress, much like Arjuna focused only on the eye of the bird when practicing archery, illustrating single-pointed focus.* The Transience of the World: The world is likened to a bridge; one should pass through it without building permanent attachments. This analogy emphasizes the temporary nature of worldly life compared to the eternal spiritual journey.* Company and Spiritual Growth: The company one keeps is crucial for spiritual life; associating with those who are also on a spiritual path helps maintain and enhance one's practice, as per the saying "company is greater than willpower."* Discrimination in Relationships: Spiritual discrimination is necessary in choosing associations, suggesting one should distance from those who are not supportive of or are detrimental to one's spiritual life.This talk focuses on the internal qualities and attitudes that endear one to God, emphasizing a life of simplicity, focus, and spiritual dedication over worldly engagement.

    21 分鐘
  6. Gita Talk 53–God's Power Within Us

    2月7日

    Gita Talk 53–God's Power Within Us

    The fifty-third in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 12:11, Swamiji discusses the hierarchy of spiritual attitudes: action (karma), knowledge, meditation, and renuciation. He talks about manifesting God's power within us, and the positive attitudes we should cultivate.Here's a summary of the talk by Swami Nirmalananda Giri on "God's Power Within Us."* Karma Yoga and Action for God: The talk begins with an explanation of Karma Yoga, where actions are performed in, for, and by God, with the aim of self-realization. Actions should be seen within the context of divine purpose.* Relying on God's Yoga Power: If one cannot perform actions solely for God, Krishna suggests relying on His yoga power, which isn't about divine intervention but about tapping into the inherent power of union (yoga) within us, which is part of the divine.* The Nature of Yoga Power: Yoga power is described as the power of union, intrinsic to our nature as part of our inner Divinity. This power can be accessed through meditation and spiritual practice, not merely by asking for external help.* Hierarchy of Spiritual Practices: Knowledge (Jnana) is better than mere action because it leads to understanding and insight. Meditation is superior to knowledge because it produces this insight. Renunciation of the fruits of action is even higher, as it signifies a state of meditation where actions are performed without attachment to outcomes.* Attitude Towards Others: The Gita emphasizes an attitude of non-hatred, compassion, and friendliness towards all beings. This involves not only avoiding negative emotions but actively engaging in alleviating others' suffering, recognizing our oneness with all.* Personal Stories of Compassion: Swamiji shares personal anecdotes to illustrate the importance of empathy and compassion, highlighting how we should bear others' burdens as if they were our own, fostering a sense of unity.* Ego and Possession: The talk critiques the egoistic, possessive attitude, likening human behavior to animalistic territoriality, suggesting that our actions and attitudes are influenced by our lower nature and animal diet.* Equanimity in Life: Maintaining equanimity in pleasure and pain, success and failure, is emphasized, advocating for a balanced, steady mind that does not swing with external circumstances.* Spiritual Practice as Essential: Throughout, there's a strong emphasis on the necessity of Yoga Sadhana (spiritual practice) to truly embody these teachings, indicating that without such practice, these ideals remain theoretical.* Continuous Learning and Growth: The Gita is presented not just as a text of philosophy but as a guide for practical living, encouraging continuous personal and spiritual growth.This talk underscores the integration of spiritual wisdom into daily life through devotion, knowledge, and action, all underpinned by the realization of God's power within us.

    3 秒
  7. Gita Talk 52–The Yoga of Devotion

    2月7日

    Gita Talk 52–The Yoga of Devotion

    The fifty-second in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 12:01, Swamiji discusses devotion, as taught by Krishna, whether it is better to approach God as the Unmanifest or as Personal (Saguna). He also discusses the use of the mantra Soham.* Introduction to Devotion: The talk begins with an introduction to the 12th chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, focusing on Bhakti Yoga (the Yoga of Devotion).* Previous Chapters Recap:Before diving into the Yoga of Devotion, Swamiji briefly recaps the previous chapter, "The Yoga of Divine Glories," where Krishna lists manifestations of His divine power, which Swamiji notes might be less relevant philosophically but signifies His presence in all glories.* Cosmic Vision Context: The chapter following divine glories deals with the vision of Krishna's cosmic form, which is both dramatic and overwhelming, illustrating God's vastness and the cycle of creation and dissolution.* Question on Devotion vs. Non-Duality: Arjuna's query in this chapter is about understanding yoga better: whether those who worship God with form and qualities or those who meditate on the unmanifest, formless Brahman have a superior understanding of yoga.* Krishna's Response: Krishna explains that those steadfast in devotion, with their minds fixed on Him with supreme faith, are considered more versed in yoga. This approach is seen as more practical for the embodied soul in the material world.* Challenges of Meditating on the Unmanifest: Meditating on the unmanifest Brahman is described as more challenging for those in physical bodies because it's difficult to grasp something so abstract while in the world of forms and qualities.* Practical Path of Devotion: Krishna advocates for a yoga where actions are performed for Him, with the mind directed towards Him. This path is practical and leads to spiritual growth, even if one cannot achieve perfect meditation.* The Role of Mantra and Meditation: The use of the mantra "Soham" (I am That) is highlighted as a method to merge consciousness with the divine, reflecting the eternal process of breathing and the connection of the individual soul with the absolute.* Levels of Practice: Krishna outlines different levels of practice: fixing the mind on Him, constant practice of yoga, or even performing actions with the intent of devotion if direct meditation is challenging.* Ultimate Goal - Becoming a Yogi: The overarching advice is to become a Yogi, emphasizing that through devotion and action for God's sake, one can attain spiritual perfection and ultimately merge with the divine.* Encouragement for Spiritual Practice: The talk concludes by encouraging persistence in spiritual practice, acknowledging that everyone starts at different levels but can progress through dedicated effort.This talk contrasts the paths of devotion to a personal form of God versus the impersonal, formless Brahman, highlighting practical devotion as a more accessible and effective path for spiritual seekers in this world.

    4 秒
  8. Gita Talk 51–God as the Source of All

    2月7日

    Gita Talk 51–God as the Source of All

    The fifty-first in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, starting with Chapter 10:01, Swamiji discusses what it means to be "beloved of God," who were the saptarishis and the manus, and a humorous story of St. Teresa of Avila, among other topics.* God's Nature: God is described not as a person with human-like emotions or ego but as a supreme being or "Purusha." God knows and values us as part of His being.* Beloved by God: Humans are considered beloved by God, but the concept of love here transcends conventional religious ideas. It's not about loving an unknown entity but recognizing our inherent connection with Divinity.* Purpose of Worship: Worship is not for God's benefit but for ours, likened to therapy for healing, elevating, and clarifying consciousness. It's about personal transformation rather than appeasing a deity.* Universal Source: God is the origin of everything, including gods, seers, humans, and all aspects of nature. This understanding is crucial for spiritual growth.* Yoga and Knowledge: True knowledge and intelligence come from God. Yoga is not just an abstract concept but a practical path (sadhana) for realizing this truth, leading to non-delusion, forbearance, truthfulness, self-restraint, and equanimity.* Human Conditions: All human conditions like happiness, suffering, birth, death, fear, and fearlessness are manifestations from God. Understanding this helps in transcending personal ego and reactions.* Moral and Ethical Living: Traits like non-injury, impartiality, contentment, and almsgiving are highlighted as arising from God, promoting a life of virtue and compassion.* Reputation and External Influences: Both good and ill repute should not affect one's inner peace or spiritual practice, as they are external phenomena.* Hierarchy and Creation: There's a mention of ancient sages and beings involved in the creation process, indicating a divine hierarchy where God is the ultimate source, but various beings facilitate the creation.* Spiritual Practice (Yoga): Yoga is emphasized as the path to unite with God. It involves unwavering practice and living a life that reflects spiritual truths, not just acknowledging them intellectually.* Worship and Realization: True worship involves recognizing and living in accordance with God's worth, leading to a deeper personal realization of divinity within oneself.* Steadfastness in Spirituality: The talk underscores the need for constant steadfastness in spiritual pursuit, akin to being "nailed down with the love for God," suggesting a life of intense devotion and practice.This talk aims to clarify misunderstandings about God's nature, the purpose of life, and spiritual practices, advocating for a life aligned with divine principles for true awakening.

    33 分鐘
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簡介

Talks on the Bhagavad Gita by Swami Nirmalananda Giri About the Gita The Bhagavad Gita is the most popular of the scriptures of Hinduism. In this series of talks on India’s spiritual classic, Swami Nirmalananda illumines its importance for all spiritual seekers, and for yogis in particular. The Bhagavad gita is the immortal dialog between Sri Krishna and the yogi-warrior Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra on the eve of the Mahabharata war. In 700 verses, the sage Vyasa relates the teachings of Sri Krishna on the foundational philosophy and practices necessary to succeed in spiritual life. In these talks Swami Nirmalananda gives explanations of Sri Krishna’s teachings in the Gita which will be of practical value both to beginners and also to experienced students in spiritual life. Most talks are about 20 minutes long, though some are longer. About the Speaker These talks are by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke), the founder and director of the Atma Jyoti Ashram (Light of the Spirit Monastery) in Cedar Crest, New Mexico, USA. His writings are featured on the monastery’s website, OCOY.org. Swamiji has over a half a century of background in study of the world’s religions. During his first trip to India in 1963 he was given sannyas by Swami Vidyananda Giri, a direct disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda, who had himself been given sannyas by the Shankaracharya of Puri, Jagadguru Bharat Krishna Tirtha. In his many pilgrimages to India, he had the opportunity of meeting some of India’s greatest spiritual figures, including Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh and Anandamayi Ma. Swami Nirmalananda is the author of numerous books on practical spiritual life, including his own translation of the Bhagavad Gita, and his commentary on the Gita, The Bhagavad Gita for Awakening.

資訊

  • 創作者
    Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke)
  • 活躍年代
    2024年 - 2025年
  • 集數
    59
  • 年齡分級
    兒少適宜
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    © Copyright 2024 Gita Talks
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