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Chapter 08

The Yoga of the Imperishable Brahman

Aksara Brahma Yoga

The concepts of Brahman, karma, and the soul are explored. Krishna teaches about the moment of death and attaining the supreme.

brahmaneternitydeathtranscendence
5 lessons from 28 verses

Featured Lessons

Anta-kale cha mam eva smaran muktva kalevaram, yah prayati sa mad-bhavam yati nasty atra sanshayah

Whoever, at the end of their life, quits the body remembering Me alone, attains My nature. Of this, there is no doubt.

Key Teachings

  • The last thought determines the next destination
  • Constant remembrance prepares for death
  • Divine assurance of union
Tasmāt sarveṣu kāleṣu mām anusmara yudhya ca, mayy arpita-mano-buddhir mām evaiṣyasy asanśayaḥ

Therefore, remember Me at all times and fight. With mind and intellect surrendered to Me, you will certainly attain Me.

Key Teachings

  • Constant remembrance amid action
  • Balance devotion with duty
  • Surrender ensures divine union
Ananya-chetah satatam yo mam smarati nityashah, tasyaham sulabhah partha nitya-yuktasya yoginah

For one who always remembers Me without deviation, I am easy to obtain, O son of Pritha, because of constant engagement in devotional service.

Key Teachings

  • Constant practice makes God accessible
  • Single-pointed devotion simplifies the path
  • God is near to those who think of Him
Mam upetya punar janma duhkhalayam ashashvatam, napnuvanti mahatmanah samsiddhim paramam gatah

Having attained Me, the great souls are no longer subject to rebirth in this temporary world of misery, having achieved the highest perfection.

Key Teachings

  • Union with God ends the cycle of rebirth
  • Liberation from suffering is possible
  • The highest achievement is divine union
Vedeshu yajneshu tapahsu chaiva daneshu yat punya-phalam pradishtam, atyeti tat sarvam idam viditva yogi param sthanam upaiti chadyam

The yogi who knows this truth surpasses all rewards from studying the Vedas, performing sacrifices, austerities, and giving charity, and attains the supreme primordial abode.

Key Teachings

  • Knowledge surpasses ritual merit
  • Understanding leads to the highest goal
  • Wisdom transcends external practices