n this class (Class 56, Sept. 28th), we discuss verses 15–16 of chapter 7 of the Bhagavad Gita, along with Sri Aurobindo’s commentary (the chapter from Essays on the Gita entitled “The Synthesis of Devotion and Knowledge,” pp. 278–288).
Study Questions
1. Summarize and compare Shankara’s, Ramanuja’s, Sri Aurobindo’s and Swami Tapasyanandaji’s interpretations of verses 16–18 of chapter 7 of the Gita (beginning “caturvidhā…”).
2. Which, if any, of these four interpretations of Gita 7.16–18 do you find most plausible, and why?
3. Summarize and compare Sri Aurobindo’s and Swami Tapasyananda’s interpretations of verses 7.20–22 of the Gita (beginning “kāmais tais tais…”). Which, if either, do you prefer, and why?
4. Explain how any of these verses from the Gita (7.16–22) help you as spiritual aspirants in your daily practice. Please discuss at least two of these verses and their practical implications for you personally.
5. Do you have any questions about the reading? Did you have difficulty understanding anything? Do you have any doubts or confusions?