
The Song Celestial or Bhagavad-Gita: Discourse Between Arjuna, Prince of India, and the Supreme Being Under the Form of Krishna
Enriched edition. Timeless Wisdom and Spiritual InsightsBy Edwin ArnoldLength3h 5m
About this audiobook
Edwin Arnold's "The Song Celestial," a poetic adaptation of the revered Hindu scripture, the Bhagavad-Gita, encapsulates the profound philosophical discourse between Arjuna, a warrior prince, and Lord Krishna, who serves as his charioteer and divine guide. Written in lyrical verse, Arnold masterfully transforms intricate concepts of duty (dharma), devotion (bhakti), and the nature of the self into an accessible narrative steeped in vibrant imagery and emotive language. This work serves as a bridge between Eastern spirituality and Western literary traditions, illuminating the timeless wisdom of the Gita while inviting readers to contemplate their own existential dilemmas in a rapidly changing world. Edwin Arnold (1832-1904), a distinguished British poet and journalist, was deeply influenced by his encounters with Indian culture during his time in the British Raj. His familiarity with both Eastern philosophies and Western thought propelled him to create this adaptation, ultimately striving for a universal understanding of spirituality. Arnold's background as an educator and his commitment to promoting ethical living and moral responsibility underpin the thematic essence of "The Song Celestial," reflecting his admiration for the Gita's ethical framework. For readers seeking to explore the intersections of spirituality and literature, "The Song Celestial" is a captivating and enriching journey. Arnold's rendition not only offers an aesthetic appreciation of the Gita's teachings but also invites modern readers to engage in a dialogue with the profound ethical questions it raises. This work is an essential addition for those looking to deepen their understanding of Eastern philosophies through the lens of artful expression.
In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:
- A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes.
- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.
- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing.
- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.
- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life.
- Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.
- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.
Audiobook details
GenreSpirituality and Religion
Length3 hrs 5 mins
Narrated byListen with 1,000+ voices
FormateBook with Audio
Publish dateJan 8, 2024
LanguageEnglish
Table of contents
1Introduction
14CHAPTER IX Religion by the Kingly Knowledge and the Kingly Mystery
2Introduction
15CHAPTER X Religion by the Heavenly Perfections
3Synopsis
16CHAPTER XI The Manifesting of the One and Manifold
4Historical Context
17CHAPTER XII Religion of Faith
5PREFACE
18CHAPTER XIII Religion by Separation of Matter and Spirit
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6CHAPTER I The Distress of Arjuna
19CHAPTER XIV Religion by Separation from the Qualities
7CHAPTER II The Book of Doctrines
20CHAPTER XV Religion by Attaining the Supreme
8CHAPTER III Virtue in Work
21CHAPTER XVI The Separateness of the Divine and Undivine
9CHAPTER IV The Religion of Knowledge
22CHAPTER XVII Religion by the Threefold Faith
10CHAPTER V Religion of Renouncing Works
23CHAPTER XVIII Religion by Deliverance and Renunciation
11CHAPTER VI Religion by Self-Restraint
24Analysis
12CHAPTER VII Religion by Discernment
25Reflection
13CHAPTER VIII Religion by Service of the Supreme
26Memorable Quotes