The Bhagavad Gita is considered a sacred scripture in Hinduism and is treated with great reverence. Here's an expanded guide on how to keep the Bhagavad Gita at home, including spiritual, practical, and ritualistic aspects:
1. Placement of the Bhagavad Gita
- Direction: The Bhagavad Gita is ideally placed in the East or North direction of the house, as these directions are considered auspicious.
- Room: It is commonly kept in the Puja room (prayer room) or a clean and peaceful part of the house, such as a study or library.
- Surface: Place it on a clean cloth or a wooden stand, avoiding placing it directly on the floor.
2. Guidelines for Handling
- Cleanliness: Always ensure your hands are clean before touching the Bhagavad Gita.
- Respectful Attitude: Never place other items (e.g., unrelated books, objects) on top of the Gita.
- Use a Cover: Many devotees keep the Bhagavad Gita wrapped in a silk or cotton cloth for protection.
3. Daily Routine Involving the Bhagavad Gita
- Morning Ritual:
- Begin the day by lighting a lamp (diya) and offering incense or flowers to the Bhagavad Gita.
- Recite a short prayer, such as:
"Om Vasudevaya Namah"
(Salutations to Lord Krishna, the speaker of the Bhagavad Gita)
- Reading/Chanting:
- Read a few verses daily, along with their meanings, to imbibe its teachings.
- Start with Chapter 2, which contains key philosophical insights, if you're new to the text.
- Evening Reflection:
- Dedicate a few moments to reflect on the verses read during the day and consider their application in daily life.
4. Worship Practices
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Prayer to Krishna as Parthasarathy: Krishna is revered as Parthasarathy (the charioteer of Arjuna) in the Bhagavad Gita. A suitable prayer can include:
"Vande Parthasarathyam, Krishna Bhagavan Ki Jai."
(I bow to Parthasarathy, victory to Lord Krishna) -
Chanting the Mantra:
"Om Shri Krishnaaya Vasudevaaya Devaki Nandanaya Cha, Nandagopa Kumaraaya Govindaaya Namo Namah."
(Salutations to Shri Krishna, the son of Vasudeva and Devaki, who is also the divine child of Nanda and the protector of cows.) -
You can also perform archana (offering flowers) while chanting Krishna's 108 names.
5. Practical Suggestions
- Dedicated Time: Set aside specific times of the day for reading or studying the Bhagavad Gita to cultivate a disciplined practice.
- Family Involvement: Encourage family members to participate in group reading or discussions to spread its teachings collectively.
- Engage in Bhajans: Singing Krishna bhajans as part of your routine enhances devotion and connects with the divine message of the Gita.
6. Spiritual Discipline
- Observing Ekadashi: Fasting on Ekadashi and dedicating the day to reading the Bhagavad Gita is a common practice among devotees.
- Ahimsa (Non-Violence): The teachings emphasize following a dharmic life, including non-violence in thoughts and actions.
- Meditation: Meditate on the teachings of the Gita, focusing on shlokas like:
"Yada Yada Hi Dharmasya Glanir Bhavati Bharata."
(Whenever there is a decline in righteousness, I manifest myself, O Bharata.)
7. Lesser-Known Facts
- Preserving the Gita: Keeping the Bhagavad Gita in your home is believed to bring peace, prosperity, and wisdom.
- Role in Daily Life: The Gita provides guidance on practical matters like duty (dharma), ethical decision-making, and maintaining equanimity.
- Universal Appeal: It is not just a religious text but also a philosophical guide that can be studied regardless of one's faith.
8. Suggested Mantras and Prayers
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For Knowledge and Wisdom:
"Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya."
(I bow to Lord Vasudeva, Krishna) -
For Inner Peace:
"Om Shantih Shantih Shantih."
(May there be peace within and around)
9. Importance of Parthasarathy (Krishna as the Charioteer)
- Symbolism: Krishna as Parthasarathy represents the divine guidance provided to individuals in navigating the battlefield of life.
- Connecting with Him: Visualizing Krishna as your charioteer can inspire surrender, faith, and trust in his wisdom.
By following these practices, the Bhagavad Gita becomes a living guide, fostering spiritual growth and a deeper connection to Lord Krishna.