The Yoga of the Imperishable Absolute
Chapter 8
The eighth chapter explains the nature of the imperishable Absolute (Akshara Brahman) and the process of leaving the material body. Krishna describes what happens at the time of death, how the mind determines one's next destination, and the paths of light and darkness. He explains the concept of Brahma (the Absolute), the cycle of creation and destruction, and how by remembering the Supreme at the time of death, one can attain the Supreme. The chapter emphasizes the importance of constant remembrance and practice.
🎭Context & Background
What Happened Before This Moment?
The Bhagavad Gita takes place on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, where two groups of cousins—the Pandavas and Kauravas—are about to engage in a devastating war.
The Kauravas, led by Duryodhana, had unjustly usurped the kingdom that rightfully belonged to the Pandavas. Despite numerous attempts at peace, including Krishna's diplomatic mission, war became inevitable.
Both armies have assembled on the sacred field of Kurukshetra. Arjuna, the greatest archer among the Pandavas, has Krishna as his charioteer. As the conch shells blow signaling the start of battle, Arjuna asks Krishna to position his chariot between the two armies so he can survey the warriors.
What happens next—Arjuna's sudden crisis of conscience upon seeing his relatives, teachers, and friends on both sides—sets the stage for one of humanity's greatest philosophical dialogues.
Want to learn the complete story? The full Mahabharata story will be available soon in our Mahabharata section.
👥Key Characters
Dhritarashtra
The blind king of Hastinapura, father of the Kauravas. Unable to see the battlefield, he asks his advisor Sanjaya to describe the events.
Sanjaya
Dhritarashtra's charioteer and advisor, blessed by sage Vyasa with divine vision to see and narrate the entire battle from a distance.
Arjuna
The great warrior prince and Pandava, who will experience a moral crisis on seeing his relatives arrayed for battle. His conversation with Krishna forms the Bhagavad Gita.
Krishna
Arjuna's charioteer and divine guide. Though introduced briefly in Chapter 1, he will deliver the profound teachings that form the essence of the Gita.
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