Gita Chapter 12

Bhakta Shiromani

Gita Chapter 12

Summary of key messages;

Saguna vs Nirguna
Saakaar  vs Nirakar

Both can be realized by the one who has the following qualities:

Ananya Bhakti
Mind fixed on Lord only
Intellect fixed on Lord only
Firm Faith in Him only
Engage in the good of the others
Perform all actions as an offering to the Lord
Perfom all actions without being attached to the outcome.

BUT:

Realizing the Niraakar or Nirguna is very difficult for the one with the physical body.  Therefore for the devotee who posseses the above qualities, he can realize The Lord and reach the same Supreme abode while worshipping the Saguna, Saakar form of The Lord.  And it is relatively lot easier.  ( It is lot easier to relate to the form than to the formless, it is easier for us humans to relate to a form which we can toucn, see and feels with the physical senses )

Lord gives four easy ways for the devotee to be able to realize the Lord:

Think of Him only all the time  or
Steadfastly engage in spiritual practice or
Offer all your actions as an offering to The Lord  or
Perform all actions without attachment to the fruits of actions.  ( They will happen no matter what )

Lord also describes the qualities of a Bhakta in verses 13 - 19.  some of these qualities include loving, compassionate, equanimous, non clinging, friendly, kind, non egoist, forgiving,  having offered his mind and intellect to The Lord, one who is neither disturbed by others nor disturbs others, firmly established in the pursuit of his sadhana.


These are some of the many qualities described in this chapter.