The Bhagavad Gita for Awakening: A Practical Commentary for Leading a Successful Spiritual Life (Dharma for Awakening Collection)

This book is my first real introduction to the Bhagavad Gita. I am familiar with spirituality and some aspects of Hinduism. I really enjoyed the clear and easy to understand writing style in this book. I didn't feel like the concepts in the book were too high above my head to grasp, however, I'm sure that there are deeper insights to be picked from as I grow in my understanding over time, which is why I am sure I will read this book again. There is so much good stuff in this book, I don't even know where to begin. I really like the author's use of stories to give examples of real life applications of the teachings and just how personal it felt. I felt engaged and like I was an active part of the journey; included. As I was reading the book I felt like my consciousness was just lifted up and it was a nice feeling. I will be returning to this book as I feel it has great re-readability!

I would highly recommend this book for anyone who would like to grow in their personal development and progress on their spiritual path. There are many versions of the Bhagavad Gita out there, but I’ve never seen one quite like this. This version presents a fresh and unique perspective as the author expertly incorporates the lessons from Lord Jesus Christ and quotes from Biblical scripture and shows how these are inherently similar to the ageless wisdom imparted to Arjuna by Lord Krishna. Yet, this is not a book for only “Hindus” or “Christians.” Anyone desiring to better their lives mentally, emotionally, and spiritually would benefit greatly by reading this book. The author does an incredible job deciphering the original complex Sanskrit text into something easy to read and understand. The best part is that the reader walks away with practical solutions to everyday problems we face in the course of our lives. After reading this book, I felt empowered with more mental clarity, peace of mind, and the comfort of knowing that God is always with me.

This is the most insightful interpretation of Bhagwad Gita I have ever read to date. The language is very expressive and the commentary resonates with individual self. If you are on the path of self improvement, you will realize how much everything that is written will seem like you have always thought so. Its not a book about religion and is rather a commentary on how to lead a meaningful life, i.e. about the way of life. It provides the purpose and reason for which we are born. Just brilliant!

Abbot George Burke has done something that no one else has been able to do. He has brought the Bhagavad Gita absolutely alive for me. Admittedly, I have struggled with understanding much of the depth and profundity of this vast and beautiful spiritual text. Now, after having read, reread, referred to The Bhagavad Gita for Awakening numerous times I find remembering a poem, parable, or personal experience that Abbot George shared and am able to get a bit closer to a firm grasp on the teachings of the Gita. Thank you, Abbot George.

If you find yourself looking at this commentary of the Gita, be thankful and make the purchase. This gift is from the heart of spirit. It is written with clarity, humor, and makes me cry in some places. It has renewed my faith and propelled me to go further in my practices.

Well worth reading. I highly recommend.

As with the other "For Awakening" books by Abbot George, "The Bhagavad Gita for Awakening" is a very insightful examination and explanation of one of the paramount classics of spiritual writing we have. Abbot George has the great ability to be able to look at a text both from a scholarly standpoint and through the lens of a life of dedicated spiritual practice and not only give clear explanation, but do so both with clear sobriety and gentle humor.This is a long text, so best studied piece by piece and by taking sufficient time to really dwell on each passage and Abbot George's commentary -- but well worth the substantial amount of time that would demand. But then, this is clearly not meant to be primarily a scholarly exposé, but one fully directed at the deep intuitive and spiritual teaching of the Gita itself.If there is one thing I would have liked to have seen, it would perhaps have been more that could have been offered as illustration and exemplification from Christian sources. I say this because the hallmark of Abbot George's teaching is the unique way in which he and his companion monastics have come to understand (particularly early and Eastern) Christian teaching as entirely consistent with the teachings of Sanatana Dharma, the religious philosophy of India. On the other hand, he provides so much significant illustration from Indian sources that perhaps nothing more is needful."The Bhagavad Gita for Awakening" is a very welcome addition to the body of work we have on this truly remarkable text, and very highly recommended.

I don’t know how to feel. This book is beautifully written and well thought out. The author is knowledgeable, that much is clear. I find myself resonating with a good deal of his words but the ones I don’t leave a bad taste in my mouth. They tarnish for me, what the Gita is all about. I was surprised to find that a Swami spoke so negatively about others. Other people, other religions. I just... didn’t expect it. This led me to look up the author as this was my first experience with him and I found some things that may have shed some light on it.Anyway, beautifully written book by a knowledgeable person who may not be as enlightened as they make themselves out to be. I will take the words that sat well with me and leave the rest.

I have read quite a few versions of the Bhagavad Gita but nothing as clear as this. An excellent commentary in plain language straight from the heart and experience of a real teacher. Will continue to read his most valuable words of wisdom.

This is a really easy to approach and read. The commentary provides substantial information and useful additions to the text. Abbot George has really brought this timeless classic to life for the modern reader in a way which makes it useful and enlightening. I highly recommend it.