Bhagavad Gita Chapter 18, Verse 70

English Translation

And he who will study this sacred conversation between us two, which is conducive to virtue, by him I shall be adored through the Sacrifice in the form of Knowledge. This is My judgement.

Detailed Commentary

।।18.70।। Commentary: Regarding "अध्येष्यते च य इमं धर्म्यं संवादमावयोः" (And he who will study this sacred dialogue of ours), this dialogue between you and Me is imbued with Dharma, the essence of scriptural principles. It is truly remarkable that despite many years passing with us together, such a dialogue never transpired. Such a Dharma-infused dialogue unfolds only when a special occasion arises. Until one becomes weary of the world, *vairagya* (dispassion) awakens, and a profound stir arises within the heart, true *jijñāsā* (spiritual inquiry) does not awaken. When one is distressed by the dilemma of one's duty, and no worldly object appeals without a resolution, then with complete devotion, one prays, takes refuge, and becomes a disciple in search of light and answers. As the inquirer's *jijñāsā* intensifies, so do the answers manifest in the mind of the one who explains. And when Arjuna posed his questions with intense *jijñāsā*, then alone did such answers arise in the mind of the Lord. The dialogue between the Lord and Arjuna contains the essence of the Vedas and Upanishads, by embracing which, an individual can easily attain their goal even in the most arduous circumstances. Even in adverse situations, one should not be perturbed but rather respect and utilize them. By renouncing the desire for favorable conditions, the attachments (*rāga*) and aversions (*dveṣa*) towards both favorable and unfavorable circumstances will cease. *Samatā* (equanimity) is the very form of the Supreme Being, and this is what is called *Yoga* in the Gita. *Adhyeṣyate* implies that the more one studies this dialogue, the more one's *jijñāsā* and solutions will grow within the mind. Profound sentiments will affect the mind of the reader, gradually manifesting in their conduct. Such a personality will become an embodiment of the Gita. Through the *Jñāna-yajña* (sacrifice of knowledge), the Lord is worshipped. The person who recites the Gita pleases the Lord, just as a lover is gladdened by hearing the words of their beloved. The *Gītopadeśa* (teachings of the Gita) is a direct example of the Lord's knowledge, and whoever studies it serves the Lord. Following this, it is described that the Lord and other divine powers also reside here. Connection: For those who cannot propagate or study the Gita, a remedy is explained in the subsequent verse.