Publication

Abstract : Vedānta philosophy is popular for its discussions on ideal action, ethics and self-realisation. Like life on earth, Vedānta gives importance to death and the transmigration of the soul. The much sought after text by aspirants of Vedānta, the Bhagavad Gītā encapsulates all these concepts. The problems that warrior Arjuna poses in Bhagavad Gītā represents the experiences that any individual may face in this world. Solution provided by Kṛṣṇa to Arjuna’s queries are suitable for people of various walks of life. Vedānta puts forward Self-realisation or liberation as the chief goal of human life. Albeit undergoing spiritual practise and understanding Vedāntic scriptures, aspirants may not achieve liberation. They pass through the inevitable cycle of death and rebirth. This article discusses the Vedāntic perspective of death, rebirth and liberation in the light of Bhagavad Gītā. Bhagavad Gītā discusses about the path traversed by a transmigrating soul. It proposes methods for individuals to purify oneself and attain a better birth that takes one closer to liberation. Finally, using Karma-yoga and Bhakti-yoga one can transcend various limitations and attain liberation.