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Knowledge Of The True Essence Of Bhagavan Is Superior To Rituals – Bhagavad Gita

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In the Bhagavad Gita, one of the central teachings is the distinction between the external rituals and the inner essence of devotion to God, often referred to as Bhagavan. This understanding is pivotal in the context of karma yoga, the yoga of selfless action, where Bhagavan Sri Krishna imparts wisdom to Arjuna about the true nature of sacrifice and devotion.

The Gita emphasizes that true devotion transcends mere ritualistic offerings or external acts of sacrifice. While rituals have their significance in religious practices, they are considered secondary to the sincere devotion and surrender of the heart to the divine. In Chapter 4, Verse 24, Bhagavan Sri Krishna states:

"brahmārpaṇaṁ brahma havir
brahmāgnau brahmaṇā hutam
brahmaiva tena gantavyaṁ
brahma-karma-samādhinā"

This verse underscores the understanding that everything in existence is a manifestation of the divine. Therefore, the true essence of sacrifice lies in offering everything to that ultimate reality, which is God (Brahman/Bhagavan). The act of offering, the offering itself, the one who offers, and the recipient of the offering—all are seen as manifestations of the divine.

Adi Shankaracharya says about this verse – the knowledge of one who has given up all rites and renounced all action is represented as a sacrifice; everything connected with sacrifices is Brahman. The idea of Brahman has replaced all ideas of accessories.

This teaching encourages individuals to perform their duties and rituals with a sense of dedication and surrender to the divine, rather than being attached to the external forms and outcomes. It emphasizes the inner attitude of devotion, selflessness, and spiritual awareness in every action.

Sacrifice which involves knowledge of Brahman is superior to sacrifice which is ritualistic and only involves material offerings. In knowledge or enlightenment, one finds the reward of all actions. (Bhagavad Gita Chapter IV, Verse 33)

In essence, the Bhagavad Gita teaches that true spirituality lies not merely in performing rituals or adhering to external practices, but in cultivating a deep, loving relationship with the divine, recognizing the divinity inherent in all beings, and acting in accordance with divine principles such as righteousness, compassion, and selflessness.