Complete Bhagavad Gita English Translation

The Complete Bhagavad Gita in English

The Bhagavad Gita, meaning "Song of God," is one of the most revered spiritual texts in the world. This complete English translation presents all 700 verses across 18 chapters, offering Lord Krishna's timeless wisdom to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Our translation combines scholarly accuracy with modern accessibility, making these profound teachings relevant for contemporary life.

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"Whenever there is a decline in righteousness and an increase in unrighteousness, O Arjuna, at that time I manifest myself on earth." (Chapter 4, Verse 7)

This famous verse explains Krishna's divine incarnation principle, demonstrating how the divine intervenes to restore cosmic balance and protect dharma in times of moral crisis.

Why Read the Bhagavad Gita in English?

While the original Sanskrit carries profound depth, a quality English translation makes Krishna's teachings accessible to millions of seekers worldwide. Our translation maintains the philosophical rigor while presenting the concepts in clear, contemporary language that resonates with modern readers seeking spiritual guidance.

Complete Text: All 700 verses across 18 chapters with nothing omitted
Scholarly Commentary: Detailed explanations of complex philosophical concepts
Practical Applications: Modern relevance and life applications for each teaching
Multiple Translations: Access to various interpretations for deeper understanding
Searchable Content: Find specific verses and topics quickly
Chapter Summaries: Concise overviews of main themes and teachings

All 18 Chapters - Complete Overview

Chapter 1: The Dejection of Arjuna

Arjuna's moral crisis and refusal to fight, setting the stage for Krishna's divine discourse on duty, dharma, and the nature of action.

Chapter 2: The Yoga of Knowledge

Krishna explains the eternal nature of the soul, the temporary nature of the body, and introduces the concept of karma yoga.

Chapter 3: The Yoga of Action

The path of selfless action (karma yoga) and how to perform duties without attachment to results.

Chapter 4: The Yoga of Divine Knowledge

Krishna reveals his divine nature, the purpose of avatars, and the liberating power of true knowledge.

Chapter 5: The Yoga of Renunciation

Comparison between renunciation and karma yoga, explaining how both paths lead to liberation.

Chapter 6: The Yoga of Meditation

Detailed instructions on meditation, mind control, and the characteristics of a self-realized person.

Chapter 7: The Yoga of Knowledge and Realization

Krishna explains his divine nature, how he pervades everything, and different types of devotees.

Chapter 8: The Yoga of the Imperishable Brahman

Teachings about the supreme reality, different paths of departure from the body, and cosmic cycles.

Chapter 9: The Yoga of Royal Knowledge

The most confidential knowledge about devotion, Krishna's all-pervasive nature, and divine protection.

Chapter 10: The Yoga of Divine Glories

Krishna describes his infinite manifestations and how devotees can recognize the divine in all creation.

Chapter 11: The Yoga of the Vision of the Universal Form

Arjuna receives divine vision to see Krishna's cosmic form, revealing the universal nature of divinity.

Chapter 12: The Yoga of Devotion

Comparison of different spiritual paths and detailed description of the qualities of true devotees.

Chapter 13: The Yoga of Distinction between Field and Knower

Philosophical analysis of the body (field) and soul (knower), and the nature of true knowledge.

Chapter 14: The Yoga of the Three Gunas

Detailed explanation of the three modes of material nature and how to transcend them.

Chapter 15: The Yoga of the Supreme Person

The cosmic tree metaphor, the nature of the supreme person, and liberation from material bondage.

Chapter 16: The Yoga of Divine and Demoniac Natures

Contrasting divine and demonic qualities, and guidance for cultivating godly characteristics.

Chapter 17: The Yoga of the Three Divisions of Faith

Different types of faith, worship, charity, and austerity based on the three modes of nature.

Chapter 18: The Yoga of Liberation through Renunciation

The final teaching synthesizing all previous chapters, emphasizing surrender to the divine will.

Start Reading the Bhagavad Gita Today

Begin your spiritual journey with the complete English translation

Begin with Chapter 1 Explore Key Verses

Translation Methodology

Our English translation follows several principles to ensure both accuracy and accessibility:

Faithful to Original Sanskrit

Each verse is translated directly from the original Sanskrit text, preserving the intended meaning while making it comprehensible to English readers. We avoid interpretative liberties that might alter Krishna's original message.

Contemporary Language

While maintaining the dignity and profundity of the sacred text, we use modern English that speaks to contemporary seekers. Complex philosophical concepts are explained in accessible terms without losing their depth.

Contextual Commentary

Each verse includes commentary that explains the historical, philosophical, and practical context, helping readers understand not just what Krishna said, but why and how it applies to modern life.

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"You have a right to perform your prescribed duty, but do not hanker after the fruits of action. Never consider yourself the cause of the results, nor be attached to not doing your duty." (Chapter 2, Verse 47)

This foundational verse of karma yoga teaches the principle of desireless action. In modern terms, it means giving your best effort at work or in relationships while remaining unattached to specific outcomes, reducing stress and increasing effectiveness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best English translation of the Bhagavad Gita?

The best English translation combines accuracy with readability. Our translation preserves the original Sanskrit meaning while making it accessible to modern readers with detailed commentary and practical applications. We recommend reading multiple translations to gain deeper insight.

How many verses are in the Bhagavad Gita?

The Bhagavad Gita contains 700 verses (shlokas) organized into 18 chapters. Each verse contains profound spiritual and philosophical teachings from Lord Krishna to Arjuna, covering topics from duty and dharma to devotion and liberation.

Can I read the entire Bhagavad Gita online for free?

Yes, you can read the complete Bhagavad Gita English translation online for free on our platform. We provide all 18 chapters with commentary, verse-by-verse explanations, and practical guidance for applying these teachings in daily life.

How long does it take to read the Bhagavad Gita?

The Bhagavad Gita can be read in 3-4 hours if read continuously. However, for deeper understanding and reflection, we recommend studying one chapter per day or week, allowing time to contemplate the teachings and apply them practically.

Do I need to be Hindu to read the Bhagavad Gita?

No, the Bhagavad Gita's teachings on ethics, duty, self-realization, and spiritual growth are universal. People of all backgrounds find wisdom in its pages. The text addresses fundamental human questions about purpose, morality, and the meaning of life.