The Bhagavad-Gita: a walk-through for Westerners by Jack Hawley – Book Review
I have been interested in the Perennial Tradition for some time. The Perennial Tradition, in my words, indicates the common truths that have existed in religious traditions in various locations across the earth over many millennia. The Bhagavad Gita, (or Gita as it is commonly known), is a classic Hindu scripture and was written sometime between 300 BCE and 200 BCE. The similarities between the Gita and the Bible are stark, just as some of the differences are also obvious. My first approach was a simple read-through, which I found enjoyable and thought-provoking.
In the Afterward, Hawley writes: “but when we read the Gita again and again, as all Scriptures should be read, the words grow in us. We’re first interested in the teachings, and then we become preoccupied and engrossed in the high ideals and ideas it conveys. After a while, the process of reading it becomes, as promised, an actual experience of the profound truths it brings.
So, about two years after my first reading, I used the Gita as part of my daily prayer practice. I chose a few paragraphs and contemplated them. Again, I found the text rich and helpful. I recommend this book to all seekers of the Great Spirit I call God.
Here are some classic quotes:
Only the body is mortal. Only the body will come to an end. But the Atma, which is the True Self within, is immortal, and will never come to an end.
Do your work in this world with your heart fixed on the divine instead of on outcomes. Do not worry about results. Be even-tempered in success or failure. This mental evenness is what is meant by yoga (union with God).
One’s duty in life is one’s dharma. This essentially means that you have to live by your inner Truth rather than your selfish desires. One must do one’s duty.
Those who possess this wisdom of Self look with the unified vision upon all beings and have equal love for all, whether those beings are spiritually advanced or the least in the ranks – or even a cow or a dog. The real knower of Brahman sees only divinity everywhere, in every being and everything.
The yogi who looks with the same eye upon saints or sinners, relatives or strangers, friends or foes, well-wishers or even those wishing harm is indeed supreme.
Seek refuge only in the Divine, beloved friend. Always remember the illustrious truth that you have neither existence nor individuality independent of God. Attune your whole life to this truth. Take refuge in me and experience great peace of mind.
Much food for thought!
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About the Author - John Scoble
John's journey began in the heart of a traditional Roman Catholic family in Sydney, where he was raised with steadfast faith and reverence. Now residing in the serene surroundings of St Lucia, Brisbane, alongside his beloved wife, John finds solace and inspiration in the tranquil rhythms of life. With four adult children and a cherished grandchild also calling Brisbane home, John's family is his anchor, providing love, support, and a sense of belonging.
While spirituality has always been a cornerstone of his life, it was three transformative events in 2012, including a sacred pilgrimage to the Holy Lands, that ignited a profound shift in John's spiritual trajectory. Embracing retirement as an opportunity for deeper exploration, John immersed himself in extensive reading and soulful reflection.
Over the course of a decade, this journey of self-discovery has led John to reevaluate and transcend many of his traditional beliefs, embracing instead the timeless wisdom and cosmic perspective inherent in Christianity. Influenced by luminaries such as St. Francis of Assisi, St. Teresa of Avila, and Richard Rohr, John's spiritual evolution has been marked by a deepening resonance with the essential truths of his faith and a profound connection to the divine unfolding within and around him.
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