Lord Siva's Song: The Isvara Gita

The Isvara Gita is not only one of the most important texts for followers of Shaivism and Advaita Vedanta, but it is one of the important spiritual texts period. I have heard that it rivals the famous Bhagavad Gita. I was skeptical, but pleasantly surprised. Actually, I'd go so far to say that you could make an argument that it is even better than the Bhagavad Gita, considering its constant focus on the knowledge of Brahman without too much deviation. Some may say it is sacrilege to compare either text, especially since the Isvara Gita is a later text that shares many concepts and themes with the Bhagavad Gita. But the Isvara Gita expands on many philosophical ideas that were merely hinted at in the Bhagavad Gita (the concept of Maya being one example). Some of these more difficult philosophical ideas in the Bhagavad Gita are at the forefront in the Isvara Gita because the text teaches that renunciation accompanied by yoga is the highest way to Brahman (Shiva as the representation of the absolute Brahman). The Isvara Gita, then, is for Brahmin renouncers and those interested in metaphysics, while the Bhagavad Gita is for householders and worldly people (though we could argue that with sincere dedication both paths may end up at the same knowledge of Brahman).Andrew J. Nicholson explores this in far more depth in his introduction. Actually, his introduction is worth the price of the book alone. It is one of the most scholarly and insightfully wise contemplations on the differences between differing Hindu texts, spiritual practices such as yoga, and philosophical concepts. In my opinion, Nicholson is one of the foremost scholars on Hinduism in our modern world. I regard his scholarship as equal to great scholars of the past, such as Georg Feuerstein. On top of his introduction, his translation of the Isvara Gita brings out the essence of this great text like no other before him. His translation makes it a joy to read, but also makes it more clear for everyone to come near to an understanding of this great text, where one arrives at the real knowledge of Brahman. I have many favorite ancient texts, but the Isvara Gita is now in the upper echelon of great texts. So much so, that if anyone asked me which texts they should take on a long-term spiritual retreat, I'd say without hesitation the Isvara Gita.

This has obvious contradictions which could confuse people who are beginning to study Advaita Vedanta. I bought it because at the time I bought it, it had raving reviews but after reading it, I realized this book has been overrated by these people. One of the reviews said it was "way better than the Bhagavad Gita" and I wholeheartedly disagree. It was also misprinted. The ink was smeared in some of the pages and/or blurry. Maybe it's that I've already read too many such books, but I prefer the Astavakra Samhita by Swami Nityaswarupananda and the Bhagavad Gita by Swami Swarupananda. Oh, and both of these books are much cheaper in terms of cost. Not in terms of wisdom.

This is just a beautiful text. I love it! Lord Shiva is just the best. The Isvara Gita is so powerful!!! If you want the truth, pick this up and read it!! Way better than the Bhagavad Gita

As a Śaivite that admired the Bhagavad Gita, the Iśvara Gita is sublime. I find myself lost in the text. I only more people were exposed to its beauty. I'm so pleased to have purchased this.

As described!