A structured journey through Krishna's eternal wisdom — one chapter at a time
This comprehensive reading program guides you through all 18 chapters and 700 verses of the Bhagavad Gita. Each day includes carefully selected verses, reflection questions, and practical applications to integrate ancient wisdom into modern life. Whether you're a first-time reader or returning to deepen your understanding, this program provides structure for meaningful engagement with Krishna's teachings.
Research in habit formation suggests that 30 days is the optimal period for establishing new practices. By dedicating just 20-30 minutes daily to Gita study, you'll:
Develop a sustainable spiritual reading habit that becomes part of your daily rhythm.
Cover all 700 verses with enough depth to truly understand Krishna's progressive teachings.
Daily reflection exercises help you apply teachings to real-life situations immediately.
Clear daily milestones keep you motivated and show your journey through the scripture.
The program divides the 18 chapters across 30 days, allowing deeper exploration of key chapters while maintaining steady progress:
Establishing context and core concepts of the Gita
Chapter 1, Verses 1-23
Arjuna surveys the battlefield and sees his relatives, teachers, and friends on both sides.
Chapter 1, Verses 24-47
Arjuna experiences overwhelming grief and confusion, refusing to fight.
Chapter 2, Verses 1-30
Krishna begins teaching with the immortality of the soul—the foundational truth.
Chapter 2, Verses 31-53
The famous verse 2.47 on performing duty without attachment to results.
Chapter 2, Verses 54-72
Krishna describes the characteristics of one established in wisdom (sthita-prajna).
Chapter 3, Verses 1-24
Why action is superior to inaction; everyone must act according to their nature.
Chapter 3, Verses 25-43
How to act in the world without creating binding karma; mastering desire.
Deepening understanding of karma, knowledge, and renunciation
Chapter 4, Verses 1-22
Krishna reveals he has taught this wisdom before; knowledge that burns karma.
Chapter 4, Verses 23-42
Various forms of sacrifice; knowledge as the supreme purifier.
Chapter 5, Verses 1-15
Karma yoga and jnana yoga lead to the same goal; inner renunciation.
Chapter 5, Verses 16-29
The sage sees equally; finding happiness within; the state of Brahman.
Chapter 6, Verses 1-19
The yoga of meditation; practical instructions for the aspiring yogi.
Chapter 6, Verses 20-36
The restless mind and how to control it; gradual practice.
Chapter 6, Verses 37-47
What happens to those who don't complete the path; no effort is lost.
Understanding God's nature and the path of devotion
Chapter 7, Verses 1-19
Krishna reveals his dual nature (material and spiritual); four types of devotees.
Chapter 7, Verses 20-30
Why some worship other forms; the wise see Krishna in everything.
Chapter 8, Verses 1-16
Questions about Brahman, karma, and dying; remembrance at death.
Chapter 8, Verses 17-28
Cosmic cycles; the path of light and darkness; reaching the supreme.
Chapter 9, Verses 1-18
The most confidential knowledge; Krishna pervades all; devotion as the supreme path.
Chapter 9, Verses 19-34
Krishna accepts simple offerings made with love; all can attain him through devotion.
Chapter 10, Verses 1-23
Krishna's divine powers; recognizing him in the excellent of everything.
The cosmic vision, devotion, and the three gunas
Chapter 10, Verses 24-42
Krishna lists his divine expressions; he supports the universe with a fraction of himself.
Chapter 11, Verses 1-31
Arjuna requests and receives the cosmic vision; seeing the infinite.
Chapter 11, Verses 32-55
Arjuna's awe and fear; Krishna returns to his gentle form; the path of devotion.
Chapter 12, Verses 1-20
Qualities of the ideal devotee; Krishna's most beloved characteristics.
Chapter 13, Verses 1-19
The body as the field; the soul as the knower; qualities of knowledge.
Chapter 13, Verses 20-35
The relationship between spirit and matter; liberation through knowledge.
Chapter 14, Verses 1-27
Understanding sattva, rajas, and tamas; transcending the gunas.
Final chapters and integration
Chapters 15-16 (complete)
The cosmic tree; Krishna as the Supreme Person; divine vs. demonic qualities.
Chapters 17-18 (complete)
The three types of faith; true renunciation; the final teaching and Arjuna's choice.
For maximum benefit, follow this daily structure:
The art of acting without attachment to results—working as worship.
Self-knowledge and discrimination between the real and unreal.
The path of devotion—connecting with the Divine through love.
Meditation techniques and mind control for inner peace.
Download the Srimad Gita App for verse-by-verse guidance, audio recitations, and daily reminders to support your reading program.
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