Srimad Bhagavad Gita is a sacred Hindu scripture that Maharishi Veda Vyasa wrote. Rooted in the dialogue between Lord Sri Krishna and the warrior Arjuna, the Bhagavad Gita quotes dives deeper into the complexities of life and the pursuit of righteousness.
Originally written in Sanskrit, the Bhagavad Gita is a collection of verses in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Bhagavad Gita consists of 701 Shlokas (verses), divided into 18 chapters. Though Bhagavad Gita was written centuries ago (between the 2nd and 5th century BCE), the teachings of Lord Sri Krishna offer timeless guidance for anyone feeling confused or stuck in life.
The Bhagavad Gita quotes and verses are believed to offer profound insights that exceed the boundaries of time and culture. The Bhagavad Gita stands as a timeless guide even today. The Bhagavad Gita serves as a beacon of wisdom, imparting valuable lessons on duty, resilience, and self-discovery.
As we explore some of the most sacred verses of the Bhagavad Gita, let us unravel the significance of these quotes and their meanings. This curated collection of the best Bhagavad Gita quotes is tailored to inspire and guide you through the challenges and triumphs of your journey.
Famous Shlokas and Quotes from Bhagavad Gita With Explanation
Whether seeking motivation or profound insights, the words of the Bhagavad Gita can offer valuable guidance to those in search of clarity and purpose.
1. “You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions.” – Bhagavad Gita
This profound quote from the Bhagavad Gita explains that only doing your duty sincerely is in your control. As you can’t control the outcome every time, you should not be too attached to the results. Also, you are supposed to fulfil your assigned duties sincerely, the rewards are not exclusively for you. If you are a student, you can take a massive lesson from this quote. While as a student, you are supposed to sincerely study, the outcome of your sincere work is not exclusive to you. For instance, when you study hard and achieve good grades, your family, friends and everyone around you feel proud of you.
2. “Do your work with the welfare of others always in mind.” – Bhagavad Gita
This profound quote from the Bhagavad Gita encapsulates the principle of selfless action and service to others. It reminds us that the true purpose of our work and actions should always be the welfare and benefit of others. Regardless of the task at hand, whether it be in our professional endeavours or daily interactions, we should strive to consider the impact of our actions on those around us.
By adopting a mindset of altruism and compassion, we can transform our work into a means of creating positive change and upliftment in the lives of others. Instead of being driven solely by self-interest or personal gain, we are called to approach our responsibilities with a sense of responsibility and care for the well-being of all beings.
3. “The mind acts like an enemy for those who do not control it.” – Bhagavad Gita
This famous quote from the Bhagavad Gita underscores the pivotal role of the mind in shaping our experiences and outcomes in life. It highlights the dual nature of the mind, which can either serve as a faithful ally or a formidable adversary depending on our ability to control it.
The mind, when disciplined and harnessed through positive thinking and constructive actions, becomes a powerful asset that supports our endeavours and leads us towards success and fulfilment. However, when left unchecked and allowed to wander or dwell on negative thoughts, the mind can become a source of inner turmoil and self-sabotage.
By recognizing the inherent power of the mind and cultivating the discipline to control its fluctuations, we can harness its potential for our benefit. Through practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and positive affirmations, we can steer our thoughts in a direction that aligns with our goals and aspirations.
In essence, this teaching reminds us that mastery over the mind is essential for navigating life’s challenges and realizing our full potential. By exercising conscious control over our thoughts and emotions, we can transform the mind from a potential adversary into a trusted ally on the journey towards personal growth and self-realization.
4. “Set thy heart upon thy work but never on its reward.” – Bhagavad Gita
This famous Bhagavad Gita Shloka explains the importance of dedicating oneself wholeheartedly to the task at hand, rather than being preoccupied with the potential rewards that may follow. As human beings, we often find ourselves fixating on the rewards rather than the process of the work itself.
For instance, in our professional endeavours, we may become overly concerned with promotions, accolades, or financial gains, neglecting the intrinsic value of the work itself. However, when we approach our tasks with genuine passion and dedication, driven by an inner desire to excel, we tend to perform at our best. If the outcome is the sole motive behind our actions, we risk compromising the quality of our work and limiting our potential for growth and self-fulfilment.
5. “A person can rise through the efforts of his own mind; he can also sink through the same mind.” – Bhagavad Gita
This Bhagavad Gita verse emphasizes the profound influence and potential of the human mind. According to Lord Krishna’s teachings, our minds possess the power to uplift us to greater heights or to drag us down into despair. The key lies in mastering and controlling our minds, harnessing their immense potential to propel us towards success and fulfilment. By recognizing the pivotal role of our thoughts and perceptions in shaping our realities, we can strive to cultivate a positive and empowering mindset. Through disciplined practice and self-awareness, we can leverage the power of our minds to overcome obstacles, achieve our goals, and lead lives filled with purpose and meaning.
6. “It is better to do one’s own dharma, even though imperfectly, than to do another’s dharma, even though perfectly. By doing one’s innate duties, a person does not incur sin.” – Bhagavad Gita
This profound Bhagavad Gita quote underscores the importance of embracing one’s inherent duties, or dharma, rather than striving to fulfil roles that are not natural to us. It emphasizes the idea that it is preferable to perform our duties, even if we do so imperfectly, rather than attempting to excel in tasks that do not align with our true selves.
7. “Change is the law of the universe.” – Bhagavad Gita
This beautiful quote from the Bhagavad Gita shares a timeless wisdom that change is an inherent law of the universe. It reminds us that nothing remains static; everything is in a constant state of flux. To live a life of fulfilment and alignment with the natural order, it is essential to embrace and adapt to change. By recognizing the inevitability of change and welcoming it with an open heart and mind, we can harness its transformative power. Rather than resisting or fearing change, we can view it as an opportunity for growth, renewal, and evolution. This mindset allows us to navigate life’s transitions with resilience, grace, and inner strength.
8. The soul is neither born, nor does it ever die; nor having once existed, does it ever cease to be. The soul is without birth, eternal, immortal, and ageless. It is not destroyed when the body is destroyed.” -Bhagavad Gita
This Shloka from the Bhagavad Gita explains the eternal nature of the soul. It emphasizes that the soul is free from the birth and death and that it is immortal. The soul is neither born nor does it die.
9. “Perform your prescribed duties, since action is superior to inaction. By ceasing activity, even your bodily maintenance will not be possible.” – Bhagavad Gita
This powerful quote from the Bhagavad Gita underscores the importance of actively engaging in our prescribed duties as human beings. It highlights the notion that action is inherently superior to inaction, as it is through action that we elevate our minds, sharpen our intellect, and ultimately enrich our lives.”
As humans, we are entrusted with certain responsibilities and duties, both societal and personal, which contribute to the well-being of ourselves and others. By conscientiously performing these duties, we not only fulfil our obligations but also cultivate a sense of purpose, fulfilment, and spiritual growth.
Conversely, embracing inaction or refusing to engage in our prescribed duties can lead to stagnation and deterioration, both mentally and physically. Without the momentum of action, even the basic maintenance of our bodies and minds becomes challenging.
10. “The self-controlled soul, who moves amongst sense objects, free from either attachment or repulsion, he wins eternal peace.” – Bhagavad Gita
This famous quote from the Bhagavad Gita explains the virtues of self-control and detachment from sensory pleasures. Lord Krishna teaches that the soul who can navigate the world of sense objects without being swayed by attachment or aversion achieves a state of eternal peace.
As humans, we are naturally drawn to sensory experiences and the pleasures they offer. However, the pursuit of these transient pleasures often leads to attachment and suffering. Lord Krishna suggests that true peace and fulfilment can only be attained by transcending these temporary pleasures and cultivating a sense of detachment.
While complete detachment from physical pleasures may seem unattainable, the key lies in redirecting our focus towards seeking eternal satisfaction beyond the material realm. By nurturing spiritual practices, self-discipline, and inner reflection, we can gradually loosen the grip of attachment to sensory objects and discover lasting peace within.
11. “One who is not disturbed by the incessant flow of desires—that enter like rivers into the ocean, which is ever being filled but is always still—can alone achieve peace.” – Bhagavad Gita
This profound wisdom from the Bhagavad Gita offers insight into the nature of human desires and their impact on inner peace. Lord Krishna teaches that those who remain undisturbed by the relentless onslaught of desires, akin to rivers flowing into the ocean, are the ones who can truly attain peace.
Desires are inherent to human nature, driving our actions and aspirations. However, when we become enslaved by our desires, constantly seeking fulfilment outside ourselves, we inevitably experience inner turmoil and dissatisfaction. The unending pursuit of desires can lead to a perpetual cycle of craving and suffering.
Lord Krishna suggests that true peace lies in transcending this cycle of desire and discontentment. Just as the ocean remains still despite the continuous inflow of rivers, those who remain unaffected by the ebb and flow of desires can find tranquillity within themselves.
12. “To the illumined man or woman, a clod of dirt, a stone, and gold are the same.” – Bhagavad Gita
This insightful quote from the Bhagavad Gita speaks to the perspective of the spiritually enlightened individual, who perceives equality among all things, regardless of their material value. In the eyes of such a person, whether it is a clod of dirt, a stone, or gold, they are seen as equal and hold no inherent superiority or inferiority. For them, the true essence of life and existence lies in finding fulfilment and contentment beyond the realm of materialism.
13. “A person can attain perfection in yoga by performing his duties with selfless devotion.” – Bhagavad Gita
This famous quote from Bhagavad Gita refers to Karma Yoga which is the path of selfless action. Karma yoga encourages us to perform our designated duties with devotion and sincerity, without attaching ourselves to the outcomes and rewards.
14. “He who has no attachments can really love others, for his love is pure and divine.” – Bhagavad Gita
This teaching by Sri Krishna in Bhagavad Gita invites us to examine the nature of our attachments and their impact on our ability to love anyone. By cultivating a spirit of detachment, we open ourselves to the transformative power of pure and divine love. Through selfless love, we can forge deeper connections with others and experience the profound joy of spiritual fulfilment.
15. “Fear not what is not real, never was and never will be. What is real, always was and cannot be destroyed.” – Bhagavad Gita
In this profound teaching from the Bhagavad Gita, Sri Krishna imparts wisdom on overcoming fear by discerning between the real and the unreal. He encourages Arjuna, and by extension all of us, not to fear that which is not real—imagined fears that have no basis in reality, never were and never will be.
Sri Krishna’s message invites us to examine the nature of our fears, recognizing that many of the anxieties we experience are unfounded and based on illusions. By distinguishing between what is real and what is merely a product of our imagination, we can liberate ourselves from the grip of fear and find inner peace and clarity.
In our daily lives, we often encounter situations that trigger fear and apprehension, yet many of these fears are rooted in anticipation of events that may never come to pass. By remembering Sri Krishna’s teachings in Bhagavad Gita, we can cultivate a mindset of discernment and resilience, refusing to be swayed by false perceptions and embracing the truth of our inherent strength and resilience.
16. “A gift is pure when it is given from the heart to the right person at the right time and at the right place, and when we expect nothing in return.” – Bhagavad Gita
In this profound teaching from the Bhagavad Gita, the concept of a pure gift is illuminated, emphasizing the importance of sincerity, timing, and intentionality in giving. Sri Krishna teaches that a gift can only be considered pure when it is offered from the heart to the right person, at the right time and place, and without any expectation of reciprocation.
Sri Krishna’s message invites us to reflect on the true nature of giving and receiving. A gift given with genuine love, compassion, and good intentions carries a purity that transcends material value. It is an expression of selflessness and generosity, enriching both the giver and the receiver.
17. “The key to happiness is the reduction of desires.” – Bhagavad Gita
In this quote, Lord Krishna imparts a profound teaching on the nature of happiness, emphasizing that true fulfilment is found in reducing our desires. It underscores the importance of recognizing the root cause of our unhappiness which is impractical and unfulfilled desires. He suggests that the key to experiencing lasting happiness lies in mastering our desires and embracing contentment in the present moment. By exercising control over our desires and letting go of unrealistic expectations, we can liberate ourselves from the cycle of craving and find genuine happiness and fulfilment.
18. “He who is not disturbed in mind even amidst the threefold miseries or elated when there is happiness, and who is free from attachment, fear and anger, is called a sage of steady mind” – Bhagavad Gita
This profound teaching from the Bhagavad Gita emphasizes the importance of cultivating a steady mind amidst life’s ups and downs. Sri Krishna teaches that true maturity lies in remaining undisturbed by the fluctuations of external circumstances – whether facing adversity or experiencing moments of joy – and in transcending attachments, fears, and anger.
In essence, this teaching serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of emotional resilience and inner stability. By practising detachment from external outcomes and embracing a mindset of equanimity, we can navigate life’s challenges with grace and wisdom, fostering inner peace and spiritual growth.
19. “When meditation is mastered, the mind is unwavering like the flame of a lamp in a windless place.” – Bhagavad Gita
Explanation: In this illuminating verse from the Bhagavad Gita, the analogy of a flame burning steadily in a windless place describes the unwavering nature of the mind that has been mastered through meditation. Just as a lamp’s flame remains steady and undisturbed by external forces when placed in a sheltered environment, so too does the mind become tranquil and composed when meditation is perfected.
20. “Reshape yourself through the power of your will; never let yourself be degraded by self-will.” – Bhagavad Gita
This insightful quote from the Bhagavad Gita talks about the power of the human will which can be used as a tool for self-transformation. The quote encourages us to harness the strength of our willpower to reshape ourselves. By exercising conscious intention and determination, one can overcome obstacles, cultivate positive habits, and strive towards their highest potential.
However, it also warns against the dangers of self-will. It cautions us against allowing our ego to dominate our actions, leading to arrogance, selfishness, and moral degradation.
21. “Do everything you have to do, but not with greed, not with ego, not with lust, not with envy but with love, compassion, humility and devotion.” – Bhagavad Gita
Explanation: This insightful teaching from the Bhagavad Gita offers profound guidance on how we should approach our actions. It encourages us to fulfil our duties and responsibilities but with a mindset free from negative qualities such as greed, ego, lust, and envy. Instead, the quote advocates for performing actions with love, compassion, humility, and devotion.
By aligning our intentions and motivations with these virtuous qualities, we not only fulfil our obligations but also contribute positively to the well-being of society. Actions performed with love and compassion have the power to uplift and inspire others, fostering a sense of unity and harmony within the community.
Conclusion
The Bhagavad Gita, with its profound insights into the human condition and the nature of reality, continues to serve as a timeless source of inspiration and guidance. It beckons us to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom, grace, and a steadfast commitment to self-discovery and spiritual growth. As we imbibe the wisdom of the Gita into our lives, may we walk our paths with clarity, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to embodying its timeless principles.
