59 pages 1 hour read

Swami Prabhavananda, Transl. Christopher Isherwood

Bhagavad Gita

Nonfiction | Scripture | Adult | Published in 1972

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During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Reading Check and Short Answer Questions on key points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

PART 1

Reading Check

1. What sight particularly dismays Arjuna on the battlefield?

2. According to Krishna, what is yoga?

3. What does Krishna declare as the “two paths for the pure heart”?

4. Which two words does Krishna use in reference to Arjuna?

5. Which offering “is better than any material offering”?

6. Which path of action does Krishna advise Arjuna to take?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. Who are Dhritarashtra and Sanjaya? How are they integral to the beginning of the story?

2. Why does Arjuna speak the words, “O Krishna, I will not fight”? How does Krishna initially respond to this assertion?

3. What is the concept of the “Self”? How does this idea link with Krishna’s argument concerning dishonor?

4. Summarize Krishna’s argument concerning one’s selflessness. How does this connect with a person’s dharma in life?

5. How does Krishna define himself to Arjuna? In which ways is this definition in conjunction with the idea of the “Self” and one’s dharma?

6. Why does Krishna advocate for the practice of meditation? Which type of advice does he offer Arjuna regarding meditation practice?