India is the land of pious Hindus, and most citizens practice Hinduism. We live in modern times and find that, in the same patterns as the rest of the world, relationships are undergoing turmoil. In such times, the strength of our ancient text can be the savior. We can benefit from the timeless wisdom Bhagwat Gita teachings bring to us for modern relationships.
Benefit from the timeless wisdom Bhagwat Gita teachings bring to us for modern relationships
As one of the most sacred texts in Hinduism, Bhagwat Gita tells us the ways to lead a life of detachment and self-awareness while doing our duty. The holy text comprises 700 verses that are spread across 18 chapters.
Besides Hindus, devotees from all places read Bhagwat Gita teachings to find daily inspiration. Let us come to know the inner story of Bhagwat Gita.
This happened during the times of the Mahabharata. Right before the Kurukshetra war was to take place between Pandavas and Kauravas, who were their first cousins, Arjun was undergoing a phase of inner turmoil. At this hour, it was Lord Shri Krishna who rose to the fore and helped Arjuna navigate the challenges of life. He shared his inherent wisdom and knowledge with Arjuna.
Through the medium of Bhagwat Gita teachings, a devotee can access the learnings of Lord Shree Krishna. This gives one the strength to sail through life with devotion and faith.
In the present times of turmoil, one should apply Bhagwat Gita teachings to relationships and everyday challenges. This puts one in a much improved position to live a happier life by navigating the ups and downs which are a part and parcel of marriages.
In this article, we take a look at a few of the important tips Bhagwat Gita shares with us in terms of marriages. By improving your marriage, Bhagwat Gita teachings will bring a better partnership.
Practice selfless love (Chapter 3, Verse 19)
One of the fundamentals one comes across in the Gita is Nishkama Karma, which literally translates to acting without selfish desires. When we apply the concept of Nishkama Karma to marriage, it implies unconditionally supporting and loving your partner.
Under such circumstances, the ‘what am I getting’ mindset is seldom prudent. Instead, Lord Sri Krishna advises us to keep the focus on sincerely performing our duties without worrying about getting any rewards in return.
These ideas are perfectly applicable to marriages and relationships as they free one from all expectations that one has from one’s partner. By applying these ideas, one forges a better connection with one’s partner.
Marriage is an important interpersonal relationship and one should not get into the game of keeping scores here. This is the best way to deepen the bonds.
Control your mind and emotions (Chapter 6, Verse 5)
In Lord Sri Krishna’s verbatim, “Let a man lift himself by himself… for the self alone is the friend and the enemy of the self.”
A married couple’s patience is often put to the test and emotional regulation is called for. In case you are not able to counter your frustration and anger, small issues spiral into huge problems.
If one reads Bhagwat Gita, one comes to realize that the holy book has a lot to do with mastering and training one’s mind. This comes through spiritual discipline, mindfulness, and introspection.
If disagreements come to the fore, do not react instantly. Instead, pause before you react. Be sure to use calm words. Instead of retaliating, take the opportunity to reflect.
Controlling your emotions is different from suppressing them. This just goes to show that you are practicing awareness and care when you express your emotions. This way, your partner will not feel hurt but will feel heard.
Let go of ego (Chapter 2, Verse 70)
Ego is among the greatest barriers encounter a marriage. Marriages steer in troubled waters whenever one of the partners always needs to be right or always needs to win arguments. Emotionally dominant partners are unlikely to augur well for a marriage.
One of the core teachings of the Bhagwat Gita is to be detached by letting go of the ego. This helps one stay balanced. The right way of going about it is to embrace humility by letting go of pride. You may want to sincerely apologize and freely forgive. Power struggles with your partner are to be avoided.
See the divine in your partner (Chapter 6, Verse 30)
When we understand the tenets of the Bhagwat Gita, we see that the holy book inspires us to see the divine in all beings. With this mindset, one becomes kind and compassionate towards others.
This concept applies well to marriage also and implies valuing your partner truly. When you undertake your spiritual journey, you consider your partner as the divine soul.
This puts you in a position to appreciate the very essence by looking beyond flaws and ego. Your love will not just become deeper, but also more accepting. With this mindset, your relationship with your spouse will tremendously improve.
Perform your dharma (duty) as a spouse (Chapter 18, Verse 47)
In Bhagwat Gita, the focus of chapters 1-6 is on Karma Yoga. The concept of Karma Yoga tells us that our focus should lie on efficiently performing our duties (Swadharma) without the need to imitate others.
When this concept is applied to marriage, it implies that one should practice care and responsibility when taking on the role of the spouse. Similarly, one should wholeheartedly perform one’s duty or Dharma with one’s partner. This will strengthen your marital relationship.
An implication of this concept that we should understand is that one should not compare one’s marriage to others’. The focus on following trends that we come across on social media should be limited. One’s attention has to lie on what one’s marriage requires and the efforts should be consistent.
