Bhagwad Geeta — Why not a sermon? why a discussion?

Nitin Srivastava

June 22, 2023

Imagine Arjuna’s horripilation when he realized the true identity of his cousin Krsna with whom he played and jested just like any of us would with our cousins. What must be going on in his mind when Krsna showed him his universal form and a terrified Arjuna beheld the same with newfound reverence for his cousin? Bhagwad Geeta established Krsna as the supreme God, but contrary to scriptures from other religions, even God is expounding the supreme knowledge engaging in a dialogue with Arjuna. Ever wondered why Bhagwad Geeta is not a monologue? In the author’s opinion, these may be the reasons.

• A monologue is not as effective. — A monologue does not consider the eagerness of the audience and may turn out to be a futile exercise. Arjuna would have scoffed at the same discourse at any other time. Krsna, the Guru, had to wait for the opportune moment. Confused, dejected, anxious, and unsure of what to do, Arjuna was a nervous wreck and sought Krsna’s guidance when he related to him the Bhagwad Geeta. Feeling out of one’s wits, though not a necessity, is often a precursor to one’s readiness. Unlike a monologue, a dialogue can only ensue when the student acutely feels the need for such knowledge. Our ancient Indian tradition had accepted such dialogues as the primary mode of pedagogy.

Know that by long prostration, by question, and service, the ‘wise’ who have realised the Truth will instruct you in (that) ‘Knowledge’.

– Geeta Cp 4 Verse 3

• The onus is upon the Student — The Guru is not obligated to impart spiritual knowledge unless the student is inquisitive and also fit to receive it. Intelligent questions invigorate the Guru to provide answers. The subtler aspects of spirituality can only be grasped through a repeated cycle of asking the proper questions, followed by intense cogitation upon the answers leading to a fresh array of questions. A student who is easily satisfied is not a first-class student. Constantly mulling over the subject is the only way to reach a level of comprehension that lies beyond normal understanding.
• Teacher-Student Relationship — A Guru is not a mere wage-earning teacher but someone who is keenly interested and invested in the progress of his students. A healthy discussion between the two is important to cement the relationship. It’s difficult to revere someone as a teacher who doesn’t allow questions and cross-questions, just as Arjuna does with Krsna. Krsna is open to all types of queries from Arjuna and is patient enough to answer them to his full satisfaction at the expense of repeating himself at times. The questions themselves are a window into the student’s mind revealing to the Guru the level of understanding achieved by the student, making it possible for him to adjust his teaching accordingly.