The Bhaktivedanta Book Trust

Srimad Bhagavad Gita (As It Is)

The definitive, scholarly translation of the timeless Vedic wisdom.

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AuthorA.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
PublisherThe Bhaktivedanta Book Trust
LanguageAvailable in 80+ languages
FormatHardcover, Paperback, Pocket edition

Why people are buying it

Srimad Bhagavad Gita (As It Is) is the world's most widely read edition of the Bhagavad Gita, translated by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. It provides the original Sanskrit verses alongside transliterations, word-for-word meanings, and extensive purports that explain the philosophy in a practical, devotional context. This edition is renowned for its adherence to the disciplic succession and its ability to make complex spiritual concepts accessible to modern readers.

What it does well

  • Deeply scholarly yet accessible
  • Includes original Sanskrit text
  • Extensive, insightful commentary
  • Available in many languages

What to weigh

  • Can be dense for absolute beginners
  • Strong focus on one specific theological interpretation
  • Large physical size in standard editions

Should you buy it?

This edition is the gold standard for those seeking a devotional and traditional interpretation of the Gita. It is highly recommended for readers who want to understand the text through the lens of the Gaudiya Vaishnava lineage rather than a purely academic or secular viewpoint.

Serious students of Vedic philosophyPractitioners of Bhakti YogaReaders seeking a traditional, devotional perspective

Specifications

AuthorA.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
PublisherThe Bhaktivedanta Book Trust
LanguageAvailable in 80+ languages
FormatHardcover, Paperback, Pocket edition
GenreSpiritual/Philosophy
Page CountApprox. 900-1000 pages
Publication DateFirst published 1968
SubjectVedic Philosophy and Bhakti Yoga

From published manufacturer information. Check the store listing for the exact variant.

How it compares

ProductTranslation StyleCommentary DepthSanskrit IncludedTarget AudiencePhilosophy
Srimad Bhagavad Gita (As It Is)DevotionalVery HighYesDevotees/StudentsGaudiya Vaishnava
EaswaranLiteraryModerateNoGeneral ReadersUniversalist
Gita PressLiteralMinimalYesGeneral PublicTraditional

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Questions buyers ask

Is this version suitable for beginners?

Yes, though the purports are extensive, the language is structured for study and clarity.

Does it contain the original Sanskrit?

Yes, every verse includes the Sanskrit text, transliteration, and word-for-word meaning.

Why is it called 'As It Is'?

It aims to present the teachings without personal speculation, following the traditional disciplic succession.

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