The Forms of Sanskrit Technology: Gita

As I've mentioned in a previous blog entry, Sanskrit is not a language. It is a sonic technology used to establish a Yogi in profound meditation.

There are many forms that this technology or Yoga can take in Sanskrit. There are the Vedic mantras. Upanisads. Sutras. Puranas. Stotrams. Sahasranamas. Kirtans. Bhajans. And each one serves a specific function in terms of conditioning the mind/body for higher states of consciousness.

The Gita form is used when someone is encountering grief or confusion, as in the Bhagavad Gita when Arjuna is faced with the prospect of either killing his beloved relatives in a battle for power or being killed himself. Arjuna had just asked his charioteer, Krishna, to drive him to the center of the battlefield so that he could see his opponents more clearly. When he saw his maternal uncles, cousins, and best friends, Arjuna broke down and cried. How could he possibly commit such an evil act?

As Arjuna laments to Krishna, he longs for the days when he lived in a peaceful forest and meditated all day. He is sure no kingdom, money, or power is worth the cost of shedding the blood of those he loves most in the world.

Krishna's response? Get up and fight.

Of course when you read Krishna's words in English translation (especially a translation by a scholar who insists on a literal rendition), they sound like military commands. "Get up! This behavior is not suitable for a warrior!"

Yet the famous dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna in which Krishna dispels all of his best friend's fear, doubt, and ignorance is called "Bhagavad Gita" -- "The Lord's Song." Not the Lord's command or order. But his song. And if you've ever read the Srimad Bhagavatam (the life story of Sri Krishna), you know that he is best known for his sweet musical ability.

In a moment darkened by grief, Krishna sings a song of truth to soothe the turmoil in Arjuna's heart. This is especially indicated not only by the Sanskrit meter that the Gita is composed in, but the poetic beauty of the words Krishna choose to console his friend with.

For example, the first word Krishna sings is "Partha," which is a nickname Arjuna's mother gave him. Immediately, a wave of love washes over Arjuna's heart.

It is often the case that whenever we find ourselves in a state of confusion and fear, the only thing that can bring comfort is an expression of motherly love. A sage I met once used to call it the "mother is at home" feeling. When a baby cries, a mother instinctively sings a song to calm it down.

When you are calm, you can better perceive the truth of any situation.

As I write today, one of my dear friends is facing a major surgery. A few days ago a tumor was discovered lodged in her brain. Yet what may be for some a moment to panic and succumb to fear, years of meditation has taught me to hear the song of truth inside myself. "Whatever the outcome," Krishna assures Arjuna, "you are the immortal Self."

Still, your prayers are welcome!