The Bhagavad Gita: Different Editions and Their Importance
The Bhagavad Gita: Different Editions and Their Importance
The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred text of Hinduism, has been translated and interpreted in various forms. One of the most notable translations is The Bhagavad Gita As It Is by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the founding acharya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). However, there is often confusion about the existence of multiple editions of this revered work. This article will delve into the different versions of The Bhagavad Gita As It Is, highlighting their key differences and their significance.
The Two Versions of The Bhagavad Gita As It Is
The first version of The Bhagavad Gita As It Is was published in 1968. This edition features a word-for-word translation of the original Sanskrit text paired with the English translation on the opposite page. The primary focus of this version is to provide a direct and unmediated interpretation of the ancient text, allowing readers to engage with the teachings as they were originally written.
The second version, published in 1972, includes significant changes, most notably the addition of a detailed commentary by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. This commentary provides explanatory notes and interpretations, which are crucial for understanding the nuances and broader philosophical implications of the text. While the core teachings remain consistent, the addition of the commentary can alter the reader's interpretation and engagement with the text.
The Originality of Bhagavad Gita According to Ancient Sources
Certain scholars and spiritual figures have provided alternative perspectives on the origins and versions of the Bhagavad Gita. Devdutt Patnaik, a well-known author and mythologist, has proposed that there are different versions of the text, with references to the Ishvara Gita pointing to a different origin story.
According to the Kurma Purana, Lord Shiva (Ishvara) stated:
"He who is called Narayana, the infinite one, the immutable source of all worlds, and who is only another form of mine, performs the duty of protection."
These ancient texts suggest that Lord Narayana (Vishnu) received the knowledge of the Bhagavad Gita directly from Lord Shiva. It is further stated that:
"Lord Narayana Hari, the son of Devaki, himself gave this excellent knowledge to Arjuna."
This narrative implies that the Bhagavad Gita was originally imparted by Lord Shiva, who later passed the knowledge on to Lord Narayana, who then shared it with Arjuna. This alternative perspective challenges the traditional attribution of the text as coming directly from the battlefield conversation between Lord Krishna and Arjuna.
Publishing Standards and Revisions
To uphold scholarly and ethical standards, publishing revisions of significant texts requires careful consideration. In a correspondence with Jayadvaita Swami, discussions regarding the revised and enlarged version of The Bhagavad Gita As It Is were detailed. The initial version covered a word-for-word translation, while the second version includes substantial commentary.
Journalists and editors are particularly interested in this story due to the significant changes and implications for ISKCON. Hundreds of thousands of people in Africa, for instance, are not aware that the text has been revised by 100%. The omission of the editor's byline on the cover is a contentious issue, with legal experts and scholars emphasizing the importance of transparency.
According to Chicago Manual of Style and APA, when a work is revised posthumously, the editor's byline should be on the cover. This principle is exemplified in the posthumous editing of The Story of Kullervo by J.R.R. Tolkien, where the editor's byline appears prominently on the cover. Legal advice from BBTi's copyright lawyer, Adam Bernstein, also underscored this point. The lack of clear distinction between the original and revised edition has drawn the attention of many disciples and readers.
Conclusion
The Bhagavad Gita, as it exists in different editions, holds profound spiritual and philosophical significance. The primary difference between the two versions lies in the inclusion of detailed commentary in the second edition. Understanding the historical context and the considerations behind these different versions can enrich one's engagement with the text. Additionally, the importance of transparency in publishing practices ensures that readers are fully informed about the nature of the text they are reading.