The thirty-sixth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.

In this talk, starting with Chapter 6:44, Swamiji discusses what the Vedas are, and how the yogi goes beyond the vedas. He talks about yoga as superior to asceticism, and the necessity for perseverance and mastery. He also shares a story about Anandamayi Ma.

Here is a summary of the talk "Going Beyond the Vedas."

• Vedas as Fundamental Scriptures: The Vedas are described as the supreme scriptures (Shruti), which are heard by Rishis (seers) as the fundamental sound energy of creation. They are not just religious hymns but embody the essence of the universe's creation.
• Beyond the Vedas: The talk emphasizes that true spiritual knowledge goes beyond even the Vedas. While the Vedas are the word of God, they do not encompass the essence of God, which is the consciousness of God.
• Desire for Yoga: Krishna states that a genuine desire to understand yoga takes one beyond the Vedas. This pursuit involves a deep, sincere longing for spiritual truth.
• Personal Anecdotes and Experiences: Swamiji shares personal stories, like his journey to India with fellow yogis, emphasizing the importance of satsang (company of truth-seekers) and dedication in spiritual practice. These stories illustrate the practical application of spiritual teachings.
• Purification and Yogic Practices: The discussion includes various methods of purification and warns against extreme yogic practices, such as living off minimal food or engaging in intense meditation without sleep, to demonstrate that the commitment required in the spiritual path should be consistent and manageable.
• Superiority of the Yogi: Yogis are considered superior to ascetics, scholars, and those engaged in ritualistic practices because their practice involves merging one's consciousness with God, which everyone can achieve.
• The Essence of the Bhagavad Gita: The core message of the Gita is to become a Yogi, with the ultimate goal being to unite one's inner self with Divinity. This is not just an intellectual understanding but a lived experience through practice (sadhana).
• Faith and Experience: Faith in spiritual practice comes from direct experience, which is gained through consistent practice. The talk contrasts this with superficial devotion or theatrical expressions of faith.
• Yoga of Wisdom and Realization: The transition to Chapter 7 of the Gita is introduced, focusing on how one can know God completely by having the mind absorbed in divine practice, taking refuge in God, and understanding this as the only true path to spiritual realization.
• Practical Implications: The teachings are not just philosophical but are meant to be lived. Swamiji provides examples from various texts and his own life to underline how one can apply these teachings in everyday life for spiritual growth.

The talk concludes with an encouragement to engage with the Gita's teachings actively, suggesting Swami Nirmalananda's book for further exploration.