Publisher's Synopsis
LIVING BETWEEN BIRTH AND DEATH
THE GITA'S WISDOM ON LIFE
Living between Birth and Death: the Gita's Wisdom on Life is a spiritual exploration inspired by the eternal wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita. This book answers one of the most profound questions of human existence: If we come alone and leave alone, what is the purpose of life in between? Drawing from the sacred dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna, it offers timeless guidance on how to navigate life's journey with meaning, balance, and inner fulfillment.
The book begins by contemplating the transitory nature of life, recognizing the impermanence of the physical world. It teaches us to see beyond the body and connect with the eternal soul (Atman), which is never born and never dies. By distinguishing the temporary material existence from our true spiritual identity, we begin to understand the futility of attachment and the importance of embracing change.
In Chapter 2, the focus shifts to the Self and Its Eternal Nature, unveiling the illusion of ego and identity. The Gita reminds us that realizing our divine essence leads to liberation (Moksha). Through self-awareness and detachment from false identifications, we move closer to our inner truth.
Chapter 3 delves into the purpose of human life. The Gita introduces the concept of Dharma, or righteous duty, and the significance of Karma-the law of cause and effect. It teaches that living a life of selfless service and spiritual practice, while fulfilling worldly responsibilities, helps strike a balance between material success and spiritual growth.
Chapter 4 guides readers toward detachment and inner peace, emphasizing the art of Nishkama Karma-acting without attachment to results. This section invites readers to practice equanimity and understand how peace can be found in renunciation, not through withdrawal, but through awareness and conscious living in the world.
In Chapter 5, the book reflects on relationships as spiritual bonds. While human connections are often sources of joy and pain, the Gita helps us navigate them with clarity, compassion, and detachment. It shows how love and duty can serve as vehicles for self-growth when rooted in spiritual consciousness.
Chapter 6 addresses suffering and the pursuit of happiness, pointing to Bhakti (devotion), mindfulness, and surrender as antidotes to pain. The Gita teaches that happiness is not in the fleeting pleasures of the world but in the stillness of the heart and connection with the Divine.
Chapter 7 explores the profound themes of death and the beyond. It reassures readers that death is not the end but a transition. With concepts like reincarnation, karma, and Moksha, the Gita prepares us for a peaceful departure by encouraging a life of purpose, awareness, and surrender.
Chapter 8 reveals the ultimate truth and liberation, outlining the path to enlightenment through meditation, discipline, knowledge (Jnana), and devotion (Bhakti). The culmination of life's purpose, according to the Gita, is union with the Supreme Consciousness-Brahman.
The conclusion brings all teachings into practical application. It encourages readers to integrate Gita's wisdom into daily life, find peace amidst chaos, and live with clarity even in the face of life's impermanence. The message is clear: when we align with our true self and live with purpose, life becomes not a burden, but a sacred opportunity.
Through the teachings of Lord Krishna to Arjuna, we learn that liberation is not a distant goal but a present reality, accessible through selfless action, devotion, and the ultimate surrender to the Supreme.
