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11: Bhagavad Gita Class by Swami Tadatmananda - Ch.2 Verses 18 - 22
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Students of the Bhagavad Gita and those interested in Hindu philosophy seeking to understand the nature of the self and the body.
TL;DR
This class delves into Chapter 2, Verses 18-22 of the Bhagavad Gita, explaining the concepts of the physical body (deha/sharira) and the subtle body (sukshma sharira) using a computer metaphor. It clarifies that the true self (Atma) is the immeasurable, eternal consciousness dwelling within these mortal forms.
Key Takeaways
- The physical body (deha/sharira) and subtle body (sukshma sharira) are temporary and limited, akin to computer hardware and software.
- Atma, the true self, is like the electricity powering the computer, representing consciousness that indwells both bodies.
- Atma is described as 'dehin' or 'shariran', meaning the indweller or possessor of the body, and is the true essence.
- The indwelling Atma is eternal, unborn, uncreated, and unchanging, existing beyond the limitations of time and form.
- Atma is 'sat' (that which exists without change across past, present, and future) in contrast to the temporary nature of bodies.
- Atma is 'nitya' (eternal) and 'anashi' (indestructible), highlighting its unchanging and enduring nature.
- The term 'apramaya' for Atma is best understood as 'immeasurable' rather than 'unknowable' or 'inconceivable'.
- Atma is not an object to be known, but rather the knowing subject, the consciousness that allows for all experience.
In This Video
- 01:04Introduction to Chapter 2
The class begins by welcoming students and preparing to recite verses from chapter 2 of the Bhagavad Gita.
- 06:16Verse 18: The Body's Nature
Verse 18 is introduced, focusing on the transient nature of the physical body.
- 07:24Vocabulary: Deha and Sharira
Key terms 'deha' (body) and 'sharira' (body) are explained, distinguishing between physical and subtle bodies.
- 09:51Computer Metaphor: Hardware and Software
The physical body is compared to computer hardware, and the subtle body to software.
- 11:10Electricity: The Atma
Electricity is introduced as a metaphor for Atma, the true self dwelling within.
- 12:20Dehin and Sharirin: The Indweller
The terms 'dehin' and 'sharirin' are explained as referring to Atma, the consciousness within.
- 14:22Verse 18: Bodies are Limited
Verse 18 states that both physical and subtle bodies are 'antavanta' (limited and time-bound).
- 17:18Atma: Eternal and Indestructible
The indwelling Atma is described as eternal, unborn, uncreated, unchanging, and indestructible.
- 19:01Aprameya: Immeasurable Atma
The term 'aprameya' is discussed, translating best as 'immeasurable' for Atma.
Questions & Answers
What are the two types of bodies discussed in the Bhagavad Gita class?
The class discusses the sthula sharira (physical body) made of physical elements and the sukshma sharira (subtle body) made of non-physical elements.
What is the metaphor used to explain the physical and subtle bodies?
The metaphor compares the physical body to a computer's hardware and the subtle body to its software.
What does the electricity represent in the computer metaphor?
Electricity represents the Atma, or the true self, which is the consciousness that powers the body and mind.
What does 'antavanta' mean in the context of the Bhagavad Gita verses?
'Antavanta' means limited, time-bound, or having an end, referring to both the physical and subtle bodies.
How is Atma described in relation to the mortal bodies?
Atma, the indwelling consciousness, is described as eternal, unborn, uncreated, and unchanging, in contrast to the mortal bodies.
What is the best translation for 'apramaya' when describing Atma?
The most helpful translation for 'apramaya' when describing Atma is 'immeasurable,' as Atma is consciousness and not a physical entity that can be measured.
Key Terms
- Deha — Means body, etymologically referring to that which is fit for burning after death.
- Sharira — A synonym for Deha, often used when discussing the gross physical body (sthula) and the subtle body (sukshma).
- Atma — The true self, consciousness, the indweller within the body, which is eternal and unchanging.
- Nitya — Means eternal, unchanging, referring to the nature of Atma.