In this class (Class 53 on August 31st), we discuss verses 7.1–3 of the Bhagavad Gita along with Part 2, chapter 1 of Sri Aurobindo’s Essays on the Gita, “The Two Natures.”
Study Questions
1. Please explain, and critically evaluate, Śaṅkara's, Sri Aurobindo's, and Swami Tapasyananda's respective interpretations of the terms "jñāna" and "vijñāna" in verse 7.2 of the Gita ("jnanaṁ te 'ham..."). Which, if any, of these three interpretations do you prefer, and why? (Swami Tapasyananda's interpretation of the verse is on pp. 206-207 of his book.)
2. How might Sri Ramakrishna's teachings help us to understand the terms "jñāna" and "vijñāna" in verse 7.2 of the Gita?
3. Please compare Śaṅkara's, Sri Aurobindo's, and Swami Tapasyananda's respective interpretations of verse 7.3 of the Gita ("manuṣyāṇāṁ sahasreṣu..."). Which, if any, of these three interpretations do you prefer, and why? (Swami Tapasyananda's interpretation of the verse is on pp. 206-207 of his book.)
4. Do you have any questions about the reading? Did you have difficulty understanding anything? Do you have any doubts or confusions?