The Bhagavad Gita: The Song of God Retold in Simplified English (The Essential Wisdom Library)

How disappointing. A book based on bhavadgita came ripped in my mail

This is a great introduction to the backstory, setting, and characters of the Bahagavad Gita. The book does a great job at explaining key Hindu terms and ideas, and prepares the reader to read the *actual* Bahagavad Gita. This is where I have to knock off 2 stars - from the synopsis, I believed that this was an actual, full rendition of the Bahagavad Gita, written in simple English. Only after I actually opened it up was it made clear that this is nothing but a *summarized*, *paraphrased* version. Since I haven't read the Bahagavad Gita before, this book served as a great introduction and I now feel more ready to read the actual book. However, I have to give it 3 stars because this book is very misleading about what it actually is on the back cover and on the product description. This is ONLY a PARAPHRASED version of the Bahagavad Gita, so be aware of that before you buy it!

Dr. Viljoen's treatment of one of the world's most sacred and complex text is bright and tantalizing. His work stands alone as an important piece offering deep insight while highlighting the importance and benefits of having a strong spiritual practice. However, what makes it even more special is that it is a stepping stone to the larger work. In it, he describes the most common pitfalls one encounters when attempting to read the BG. As an amateur I ran into every problem he outlined. Just knowing the characters (and their changing names) of the BG and how they relate to one another is huge in being successful. Moreover, he explains the basic plot which really helps to then allow the deeper aspects of the BG to sink in. His book has inspired to my to try the BG again and I feel confident that I am better prepared. Thanks Dr. Viljoen!!!

I first read the Bhagavd Gita about 7 years ago and I have read it several times since so I was familiar with the Gita before reading Dr. Edward’s book.I began reading it again after reading Dr. Edward’s book. It was like I was reading it for the first time!His book takes each chapter of the Gita and explains the more arcane references in easy to understand language.It is also available as an audio book, which my wife enjoyed. She bought the book and read it while listening to the audio book. If you are new to the Gita or have read it, Dr Edwards’s book is a great study aid and a great read.

Great easy reading for any person interested in exploring this difficult ancient work. The Bhagavad Gita holds many timeless lessons but can be hard to follow. The author does an amazing job on not only explaining but guiding you through the profound text. A must read for students of spiritual studies or anyone who is on a spiritual pathway. 5 stars plus.