A Woman’s Gita: Bhagavad Gita by and for Western Women

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In this episode of A Woman's Gita, hosts Nischala Joy Devi and Kamala Rose dive into the opening verses of Chapter 2 of the Bhagavad Gita. As the dialogue between the warrior Arjuna and his charioteer Krishna unfolds, we witness Arjuna's profound crisis of conscience. Overwhelmed by despair and confusion, Arjuna expresses his unwillingness to fight against his own kinsmen. 

The hosts explore how Krishna's initial harsh words of shaming and verbal beration towards Arjuna may not resonate with modern spiritual seekers. Instead, Nischala and Kamala reframe Krishna's teachings through a lens of compassion, seeking to understand Arjuna's deep-seated conflict between his duty as a warrior and his heart's aversion to violence.

The discussion also touches on the crucial role of the teacher, or guru, in the spiritual journey. The hosts share insights on discernment - what qualities to look for in a qualified teacher, and the importance of aligning one's state of mind and readiness with the guidance being offered.

Throughout the episode, listeners are invited to contemplate the universal themes of dharma, the gunas, and the complexities of the human experience as revealed in this timeless yogic text.

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In this episode of A Woman's Gita, hosts Nischala Joy Devi and Kamala Rose explore the profound paradox within the Bhagavad Gita—the tension between the violent backdrop of war and the yogic principle of ahimsa, or non-violence.

Main topics include:

• The emotional and moral crisis of Arjuna during the Mahabharata war
• Arjuna's internal conflict as a Kshatriya warrior torn between duty and non-violence
• The relevance of Arjuna's struggle for spiritual seekers in the modern world
• The concept of the "dark night of the soul" and its transformative power
• Navigating violence, compassion, and personal responsibility through the teachings of the Gita
• Practical insights on balancing ahimsa with real-world complexities
• Using despair as a catalyst for spiritual growth and resilience

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In this thought-provoking episode of A Women's Gita, hosts Nischala Joy Devi and Kamala Rose explore the profound opening chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, examining the intricate relationships between war, spirituality, and the feminine perspective.

Main topics in this episode:

• The challenge of reconciling the Gita's wartime setting with its spiritual teachings
• The "fight or flight" response that listeners may experience when confronting the Gita's themes
• Arjuna's personal crisis on the battlefield and its impact on his worldview
• The exploration of personal and existential fear, including Arjuna's "Dark Night of the Soul"
• Parallels between Arjuna's struggles and modern-day readers' inner conflicts
• The significance of cultivating compassion for oneself and those affected by conflict
• A fresh, feminine interpretation of the Gita's opening verses
• An invitation to approach the Gita with openness to its complexities and wisdom

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In this thought-provoking episode, hosts Kamala Rose and Nischala Joy Devi delve into the multifaceted character of Krishna and his role in the Bhagavad Gita. They explore the contrast between the beloved, beautiful Krishna of the Vrindavan forest and the stern, warrior-like Krishna who serves as Arjuna's charioteer on the battlefield.

The hosts share their personal experiences and perspectives on Krishna, discussing how their own spiritual journeys have shaped their understanding of this central figure. They also examine the inclusive message of the Gita, where devotion and service are open to all, regardless of gender or social status.

Main topics include:

• The contrast between Krishna as a playful, loving figure and as a stern warrior
• Personal reflections from the hosts on their own spiritual journeys with Krishna
• The Bhagavad Gita’s message of inclusion, emphasizing devotion and service for all
• Insights into Krishna’s dual nature and its relevance for modern audiences
• A feminine perspective on worship, devotion, and spiritual practice in the context of the Gita

Listeners will gain insights into the evolution of Krishna's character and the timeless wisdom of the Gita, made accessible for contemporary spiritual seekers.

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Join us for an enlightening exploration of one of history's most profound epics, the Mahabharata, as we unravel the intricate layers of the Bhagavad Gita. In this episode, we delve into:

• The Context of Conflict: Understand the reasons behind the epic war and its significance within the Mahabharata.
• Warrior and Caste Dharma: Discover the intricate duties and responsibilities of warriors and the caste system, and how these principles shaped the characters' actions and decisions.
• Soft Power Solutions: Learn about alternative, non-violent strategies and their relevance in both ancient and modern times.
• The Power of Language: Explore how language plays a pivotal role in conveying profound philosophical and ethical dilemmas.
• The Enigmatic Tale of Mohini-murti: Be captivated by the fascinating story of Mohini-murti, an incarnation of divine beauty and enchantment.

Tune in for a journey through timeless wisdom, heroic tales, and the enduring legacy of the Bhagavad Gita within the grand tapestry of the Mahabharata. Don't miss this chance to deepen your understanding and appreciation of these ancient teachings!

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Join us on a journey through the timeless teachings of the Yoga Sutras, as we explore the profound connection between Spirit and Nature. In this episode, we delve into:

• What is a Feminine Perspective?: Understand the unique insights and interpretations that a feminine lens brings to ancient texts.
• Translating from Sanskrit: Uncover the nuances and challenges of translating sacred Sanskrit verses into modern language.
• Nischala Devi’s Interpretation of Yoga Sutra 1.2: Explore Nischala's captivating translation and its deeper meanings.
• The Interplay of Spirit and Nature: Dive into the symbiotic relationship between Spirit and Nature, and how they coexist harmoniously.
• Verse 4.24: Brahman is the Offering: Reflect on the profound significance of this verse and its implications for our spiritual journey.

Tune in to deepen your understanding, embrace a new perspective, and enrich your spiritual practice. This episode promises to be an enlightening exploration of ancient wisdom through a fresh, feminine lens.

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In this enlightening episode, we will explore:

• A Brief History of the Bhagavad Gita: Discover the origins and significance of this sacred scripture, which forms a crucial part of the Indian epic, the Mahabharata.
• The Time Period of the Mahabharata and the Kurukshetra War: We journey back in time to the era of the Mahabharata, unraveling the historical and mythological context of the great Kurukshetra War that serves as the backdrop for the Gita’s teachings.
• Who Was the Bhagavad Gita Written For?: Uncover the intended audience and the timeless wisdom conveyed through the dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna, addressing the universal struggles of duty, righteousness, and spiritual growth.
• A Story of Vyasa: Delve into the life and legend of Vyasa, the sage who is credited with composing the Mahabharata, and learn about his role in shaping the narrative and preserving the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita for future generations.

Whether you're a scholar, a spiritual seeker, or simply curious about ancient Indian texts, this episode offers a fascinating insight into the Bhagavad Gita's profound teachings and its enduring relevance in today's world. Tune in and embark on a journey through history, mythology, and philosophy.

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Join us as we delve into the inspiring journeys of Nischala Joy Devi and Kamala Rose, exploring how their lives intertwine with the rise of Yoga in the West and the feminist movement. Discover the rich history of how these powerful women have merged spiritual practice with activism, advocating for social change and women's empowerment. Through personal stories and profound insights, this episode highlights the transformative power of Yoga as a tool for spiritual activism and community building. Get ready to be enlightened and inspired by the incredible impact of these trailblazing women.