October 3, 2023
The Bhagvad Gita, often referred to as the Gita, is a 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata (chapters 23–40 of the Bhishma Parva). Often esteemed as the manual of life, the divine song of the Lord, the Gita, decodes challenging life mysteries and offers a deeply spiritual explanation of human existence. Despite its deeply rooted ethos in the Bharati tradition, the Gita transcends regional and religious boundaries, offering wisdom that is universally applicable. In this exploration, our focus extends beyond the terrestrial realm, seeking to decipher what the Bhagvad Gita conveys about our universe, a cosmic view.
The allure of space and the universe has fascinated civilizations for generations, prompting continuous exploration of the celestial sphere. What comprises the universe? How was it formed? What are its governing principles? Such questions form the bedrock of cosmology. In that regard, even the oldest written documents, including the Bhagvad Gita, offer fascinating cosmological insights.
Embedded within its verses, the Gita harbors enigmatic representations of the cosmos, which reveal profound connections between the macrocosm (Universe) and the microcosm (Individual). This piece attempts to delve into these cosmic depictions and unravel the universe according to the Bhagvad Gita.
Within the ambit of the cosmic world described in the Bhagvad Gita lies the intricate play of Prakriti (Nature) and its three inherent qualities, namely, Sattva (Goodness), Rajas (Passion) and Tamas (Ignorance). These Gunas manifest in existence, shaping the characters and behaviors of beings.
Sattva is associated with purity, knowledge, and harmony. It hints at the existence of bliss and peace within the universe. Conversely, the Rajas mode signifies action, desire, and restlessness, portraying the universe’s dynamic, ever-changing nature. Tamas, identified by inertness, confusion, and obscurity, introduces the notion of ignorance or delusion.
Yet, the Gunas are not standalone constituents. They continually interact and balance within the cosmic scheme. Like an eternal dance, they stir the universe, affecting evolution, behavior, and dispositions of the beings within it.
Integral to the universe’s nature is the paradox of impermanence within the eternal. According to the Gita, the cosmic manifestation is subject to cycles of creation and destruction. The Bhagvad Gita introduces us to two intertwined concepts in this context, Akshara (Imperishable) and Kshara (Perishable).
The cosmos in which we live, i.e., the physical manifestation and its constituent beings, is Kshara – subject to transience and decay. Simultaneously, there exists Akshara, the indestructible reality beyond this transitory universe, the everlasting truth that transcends the physical world’s temporal limitations.
Venturing deeper into the cosmic mystery, the Bhagvad Gita provides hints at an intriguing concept that modern physicists are beginning to explore, a multiverse. The Gita describes an array of Lokas, which can be loosely translated as ‘planes’ or ‘dimensions of existence.’ We exist within one of these Lokas, known as ‘Bhu Loka.’
Beyond our Loka, the Gita describes higher planes of existence inhabited by different entities, each Loka distinguished by its characteristics and entities’ nature. From heavenly realms (Svargaloka) to the abode of Lord Brahma (Brahmaloka), these multiple Lokas could correspond metaphorically to the multiverse theory’s alternative realities.
The Gita also delves into other aspects of the cosmos, such as Akasha (the eternal universe), Mahattattva (the causal universe), and Maya (the illusory universe). Akasha represents the infinite cosmic space that encompasses all Lokas, the substratum of eternal existence. Mahattattva is the primal matter from which the universe is born, the cosmic womb often associated with Prakriti.
Maya, also viewed as the divine illusion, shrouds the ultimate reality, causing identification with the physical, material universe and the ego self. It is the Maya that binds the soul to the repeated cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, veiling the realization of the self’s eternal nature.
As mesmerizing as the vast cosmic expanse may seem, an undeniable connection intertwines the macrocosm with the microcosm, linking human existence to the divine cosmic scheme. According to the Bhagvad Gita, the secret to understanding this profound relationship lies within the individual soul’s journey, the role of Karma and implications for our daily lives.
The Gita proposes that beyond the physical body, an eternal soul (Atman) animates each being. Its journey is cyclical, traversing through countless births, deaths, and rebirths, much like the cosmic cycle of creation, preservation, and dissolution. This process, known as Samsara, is determined by the individual soul’s accumulated karma.
Karma, the law of cause and effect, ingrains actions’ consequences into the soul, binding it to the cycle of life and death. As the Bhagvad Gita portrays, every deed (consciously or unconsciously performed) generates an outcome that the soul endures. Pious actions result in pleasant experiences (Sukha), while sinful activities culminate in difficulties and suffering (Dukkha).
Thus, our role in the cosmos is intertwined with this karmic equation. We create our own destinies, shaping the universe simultaneously with our thoughts, words, and deeds. As we journey through the cosmic play, our primary objective is to become self-realized, recognize the eternal soul within, escape the cycle of Samsara, and merge with the Paramatman. Realizing our oneness with the cosmos enables transcendence from the entangled web of karma.
Through the cosmic lens of the Bhagvad Gita, we glean profound insights into our place in the universe, uncovering a deeper meaning to human existence. Recognizing the interwoven nature of the cosmos, the eternal soul’s journey, the influence of karma, and the ultimate quest for self-realization, we can draw valuable lessons to lead a more meaningful life.
These lessons resonate with the core beliefs of our charity, the Hindu Society of Maidenhead, reiterating the significance of the Bhagvad Gita’s teachings in contemporary society. Our group aims to provide the community with spiritual guidance, support, and opportunities for personal growth. We endeavor to build a space where individuals can internalize the invaluable cosmic knowledge of the Gita, empowering them to contemplate their existence, enhance their lives, and contribute positively to the collective cosmic play.
From time immemorial, the teachings of the Bhagvad Gita have enlightened countless souls, unraveling the immense mystery of the universe. As we endeavor to integrate these cosmic insights into our lives, we pursue the path towards self-realization and the ultimate harmony with the cosmos.
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