Deciding on the best Bhagavad Gita book to read has always been challenging for many people because every author shared their take on the ancient teaching based on their level of understanding. Making a mistake choosing any of the Bhagavad Gita books that the author’s story doesn’t connect or resonate with you is like traveling on a long-distance journey but choosing a different location from where you had in mind when setting your Google map.
We understand how challenging this can be, so we reviewed some of the best Bhagavad Gita books to make the journey easier. So, hop in as we explore the six best Bhagavad Gita books and list some of the Bhagavad Gita that also discuss spiritual wisdom, divine reality, spiritual knowledge, Indian spirituality, common human yearning, perennial philosophy, and so on.
1• “The Bhagavad Gita: A Walkthrough for Westerners” by Jack Hawley
- Audible Audiobook
- Jack Hawley (Author) – Jack Hawley (Narrator)
- English (Publication Language)
- 01/19/2012 (Publication Date) – New World Library (Publisher)
If you seek a book that focuses on Bhagavad Gita interpretations and commentary and ensures the teachings are available and easily understandable for Westerners, you should go for The Bhagavad Gita: A Walkthrough for Westerners, authored by Jack Hawley. Many people see the Bhagavad Gita as a complicated and philosophical book. However, this book by Jack Hawley, “The Bhagavad Gita: A Walkthrough for Westerners,” tends to prove that wrong.
Also, Jack offers insight and teachings on the Bhagavad Gita that sit well with many—readers who want to learn Indian spirituality. Audiences with familiar cultural and religious contexts and those interested in learning about the Bhagavad Gita from the Western view may find this book helpful.
2• “Bhagavad Gita and It’s Message” Written By Sri Aurobindo
- Hardcover Book
- Easwaran, Eknath (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 296 Pages – 02/12/2019 (Publication Date) – Nilgiri Press (Publisher)
Different authors have diverse takes on the Bhagavad Gita, and it’s pretty understandable because we all see things differently. Sri Aurobindo, a philosopher, spiritual leader, and yogi, wrote this mind-blowing book on Bhagavad Gita to help people understand what the Bhagavad Gita is about.
This book, Bhagavad Gita and Its Message helps readers with clear interpretation and commentary on the very core teachings of Bhagavad Gita. Through this book, the author explored the Bhagavad Gita’s spiritual significance and philosophical dimensions. It shared ancient wisdom, spiritual beliefs, and self-realization.
3• “Bhagavad Gita: As It Is” by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
- Most popular book
- song of god
- life manual
- gives big picture of life
- shows how to live happily from inside
- A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
The Founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), spiritual leader and mentor, A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, wrote this book, Bhagavad Gita: As It Is. A.C., in this book, offers readers a devotional and philosophical interpretation of the Gita. It also emphasized on the path of Bhakti, Yoga, or divine yoga. It explains the whole essence of Lord lord Krishna.
Prabhupada’s translation is noteworthy for his dedication to maintaining the original Sanskrit lines while offering an exact English translation accompanied by a more in-depth analysis. The goal is to present the Gita’s lessons in a style that closely follows the bhakti tradition of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, a branch of Hinduism.
4• “The Gospel of Selfless Action: The Gita according to Gandhi
- Gandhi, Mahatma (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 404 Pages – 04/30/2024 (Publication Date) – Dry Bones Pr (Publisher)
The “The Gospel of Selfless Action: The Gita According to Gandhi” analyzes the Bhagavad Gita from the perspective of Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings, stressing the value of non-violence and selfless conduct. Gandhi’s interpretation goes deeper into the ethical and spiritual importance found in the Gita. Also, it provides valuable perspectives on the practical application of these teachings in an individual’s daily life.
Gandhi emphasizes the idea of “Nishkama Karma,” which promotes carrying out one’s obligations without becoming attached to the results of deeds. He brings out the notion that dedication to justice and selfless service are the foundations of authentic spiritual progress. This is one of the best books on the Bhagavad Gita that everyone should check out.
5• “Bhagavad Gita” By Swami Sivananda
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- Hardcover Book
- Swami Sivananda (Author)
If you want complete clarity on Bhagavad Gita, check out this commentary by Swami Sivananda. You will be glad you did because it gives readers a thorough analysis of this age-old Hindu book. His translation aims to make the Gita understandable to people looking for direction in life and spiritual development by combining its philosophical and practical significance. Important topics pointed up by Sivananda are the necessity of self-discipline, devotion to God (Bhakti), and the path of selfless service.
The author’s commentary goes deeper to explain what the various yogic paths are all about. This includes Karma Yoga (the yoga of selfless action), Bhakti Yoga (the yoga of devotion), Jnana Yoga (the yoga of knowledge), and Raja Yoga (the yoga of meditation). Furthermore, this book comes highly recommended for anyone interested in understanding the Bhagavad Gita.
6• “Bhagavad Gita: With the Commentary of Shankaracharya.” by Swami Tapasyananda
- Amazon Kindle Edition
- Swami Tapasyananda (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 472 Pages – Sri Ramakrishna Math Chennai (Publisher)
Swami Tapasyananda extensively talked about the Bhagavad Gita in this book, “Bhagavad Gita: With the Commentary of Shankaracharya.” Along with the customary commentary by eminent philosopher and Advaita Vedanta exponent Adi Shankaracharya. He offers a thorough understanding of chapters in this book. Also, he dives deeper into the Scholarly insights and the deep knowledge of the philosophical aspects of the Bhagavad Gita. Those are the reasons this book is recommended to readers out there.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the questions that are not clear to our audiences concerning the Bhagavad Gita books.
What is the Best source of Bhagavad Gita?
It can be hard to know which is the best source of Bhagavad Gita because it largely depends on what you see as best, your choice, and your style. Again, what resonates with me may not resonate with you. Now, take a look at some of the best Bhagavad Gita commentaries you may like in addition to the ones we discussed above:
- Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation by Stephen Mitchell
- Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation by Eknath Easwaran
- The Living Gita: The Complete Bhagavad Gita – A Commentary for Modern Readers by Swami Satchidananda
- Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation by Winthrop Sargeant
Which Bhagavad Gita Books Are Original?
The book known as the Bhagavad Gita originated in ancient India, and it is not a single “original” book written by a single person. The Bhagavad Gita is a conversation involving Prince Arjuna and his charioteer, Lord Krishna. There are several translations and interpretations of the Bhagavad Gita, and each one presents unique viewpoints and insights.
What is the Best Version of the Bhagavad Gita in English?
There are many Bhagavad Gita translations in English by different authors, and deciding which is the best version depends on your choice as an individual. To select, check out other translations, compare and contrast, and choose which is the best for you.
What is Vedic Philosophy?
The Vedic Philosophy is popularly known as the philosophical and spiritual concepts found in India’s ancient sacred scriptures referred to as the Vedas. The Vedas are a collection of hymns, prayers, rituals ceremonies, and philosophical ideas written in Sanskrit that serve as the cornerstone of Hinduism. Numerous subjects are covered by Vedic philosophy, including cosmology, metaphysics, ethics, and spirituality.
Conclusion
Lastly, deciding on the best Bhagavad Gita books has always been proven to be difficult. However, you can choose from the list of Bhagavad Gita books above. These books contain religious writings, world mysticism, and everyday life lessons.
Some looked at the Bhagavad Gita from diverse perspectives like divine reality, religious traditions, perennial philosophy, yogic practices, etc.
Also, some Bhagavad Gita books dived into deep purpose hidden, revelation of one’s higher self, has penetrating insight, fundamental questions, deeper meaning of life, and inner peace. You can also find diverse English translations of the Bhagavad Gita books online. Good luck.
