In this class (Class 24, Sunday, July 7th at 9:30 am PST), we discuss verses 3.1-3.7 of the Bhagavad Gita and chapter 11 ("Works and Sacrifice") of Sri Aurobindo's Essays on the Gita (pp. 105-113).
Study Questions:
1. Chapter 3 of the Gita begins with Arjuna's question to Sri Krishna (3.1-3.2), which expresses Arjuna's confusion about Sri Krishna's teachings on karma and Karma Yoga in chapter
2. According to Sri Aurobindo, why is Arjuna so confused by Sri Krishna's teachings in chapter 2? Do you agree with Arjuna that Sri Krishna's teachings in chapter 2 are confusing? 2. How does Śaṅkara interpret the term "naiṣkarmyam" in verse 3.4 of the Gita?
3. How does Sri Aurobindo interpret the term "naiṣkarmyam" in verse 3.4 of the Gita? How, if at all, does Sri Aurobindo's interpretation of "naiṣkarmyam" differ from Śaṅkara's?
4. Do you find Sri Aurobindo's or Śaṅkara's interpretation of "naiṣkarmyam" more plausible? Why? Or if you think neither interpretation is plausible, please explain why and provide your own alternative interpretation of "naiṣkarmyam."
5. Please explain how verses 3.6-3.7 of the Gita are relevant to your spiritual life and day-to-day spiritual practice.
6. Do you have any questions about the reading? Did you have difficulty understanding anything? Do you have any doubts or confusions?