Gita Talk 90–How to Realize the Self

The ninetieth 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, continuing with Chapter 18:53, Swamiji discusses what is necessary to realize the Self, what renunciation is, and what devotion is.

Main Theme: Realizing the Self through renunciation, devotion, and steadfast inner transformation.

The Path of Realization – Key Practices

• Forsake egotism through inner observation and meditation.

• Renounce pride, anger, and possessiveness, replacing them with detachment.

• Be free from “mine-ness”: true ownership leads to spiritual bondage.

• Become peaceful and content inwardly – only then are you fit (kalpate) for union with Brahman.

• Adapt your life to the higher, not the higher to your life.

Devotion & Union with Brahman

• Absorption in Brahman brings serenity—no grief or desire.

• Seeing the Self in all beings doesn’t mean blind association; discernment is necessary.

• Supreme devotion leads to true knowledge of the Divine—not just belief.

• Japa and remembrance unite the mind with the Divine (e.g., Soham).

• “Instead of going to heaven at last, I’m going all along.” — the way of the yogi.

• Union with the Divine is our reality; the spiritual path is awakening to it.

Mental Renunciation and Inner Strength

• Renounce all actions mentally in God—not just physically.

• Hold the Supreme as the highest goal—always choose Brahman over worldly distractions.

• Use Buddhi Yoga (intelligence + discrimination) to guide your life, not sentimentality.

• Constantly fix your mind on God—this is both the method and the goal.

Warning Against Egotism

• If you refuse to listen or act through egotism, Krishna says: “You shall perish.”

• Don’t rely on shallow religious feeling or superficial piety—it must be rooted in Self-effort and realization.

Closing Insight

• Strict self-discipline, steadfast meditation, and inner alignment are non-negotiable.

• Success is by grace, but grace is awakened through right effort.

• The Self is already present—yoga makes us ready to live in that truth.