For a first reading in English, enjoy the Carole Satyamurti translation: The Bhagavad Gita.

The Bhagavad Gita, often referred to as the Gita, is a chapter within the Indian epic महाभारत - The Mahabharata, and is revered as pre-eminent among the **शास्त्र** Śāstra - Hindu Scriptures.

It takes the form of a dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lordकृष्ण Krishna, who serves as his charioteer on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Faced with moral dilemmas and the prospect of fighting against his own kin, Arjuna is paralyzed by doubt and despair. कृष्ण Krishna imparts profound spiritual teachings, addressing the nature of life, duty, and the self.

Through the dialogue, कृष्ण Krishna explains the concepts of dharma (duty/righteousness), karma (action), and yoga (the path to realization). He presents different paths to spiritual growth: the path of devotion (bhakti), the path of knowledge (jnana), and the path of selfless action (karma yoga). The Gita emphasizes the importance of living a life of virtue and devotion, detached from the fruits of one's actions. Its teachings are considered timeless and universal, providing guidance on how to face the challenges of life and achieve spiritual enlightenment.