In the last post, we talked about श्रद्धा, the most important characteristic needed for spiritual progress. But there is another very obvious yet subtle characteristic required for spiritual progress. Let’s touch upon that before moving ahead.

As we know, many people know about Bhagavad Gita, but only a few think of reading it. Among those who think of reading it, only a few actually take up the book and attempt to read.

From those few who attempt to read, only a few actually finish it. Out of those who finish it, very few actually apply that knowledge in their lives and experience the beauty of it firsthand.

Therefore, another important takeaway from Shlokas 2.6, 2.7 is that the onus is “on us” to make a start and put in the required initial efforts. Without our initiative, no spiritual progress can happen.

Like Arjun, until we show interest and put in initial efforts, the only thing we get back is scolding.

But, similar to Arjun, once we show the conviction and put in initial struggle, Shri Krishna himself comes to help. He then ensures that we have the required resources to continue on the path.

There is no doubt that there will always a high-priority work waiting for us. There will always be a deadline at work, a new movie/web series to watch on TV, a party or event to attend, or something else at home.

It is a certainty that there will never be free time to read Bhagavad Gita until we create it. But, once we get into a routine of reading a few shlokas every day, we will notice the difference.

We must remember, this opportunity of human life is rare. We have got this after thousands of re-births, and if we miss the chance, it will be a while before we get it again. So, let’s use this to elevate ourselves spiritually.

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Given that Arjun has taken initiative and shown needed characteristics, Shri Krishna starts teaching him the Bhagavad Gita.

Sanjay, who is the narrator here, tells Dhritarashtra about it.

सञ्जय उवाच |
एवमुक्त्वा हृषीकेशं गुडाकेश: परन्तप |
न योत्स्य इति गोविन्दमुक्त्वा तूष्णीं बभूव ह ||2.9||
Sanjay said, having spoken ( in shlokas 2.7, 2.8 ) about his struggle and willingness to take Shri Krishna as Guru, Arjun addressed Shri Krishna and said, “Govind, I will not fight” and became silent.

तमुवाच हृषीकेश: प्रहसन्निव भारत |
सेनयोरुभयोर्मध्ये विषीदन्तमिदं वच: ||2.10||
Post that, O’ Dhritarashtra, standing between the armies, Shri Krishna smilingly spoke the following words to the grief-stricken Arjun.

As we can see, now given that Arjun approached Shri Krishna for knowledge, Shri Krishna changes his approach and responds with a smile.

The ब्रह्मज्ञान teaching of Bhagavad Gita starts from the next Shloka onwards. Let’s cover that starting next post.