The Daily Vedantic

James Beshara
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Dec 18, 2024 • 20min

Ep 381: The Gita Ch. 18

In this final reflection on Chapter 18 of the Bhagavad Gita, we explore the deeper meaning of renunciation, the nature of duty, and how surrendering to our responsibilities can lead to peace. Krishna’s wisdom reveals that renunciation is not about giving up material possessions, but about letting go of attachment to the fruits of our actions. This chapter is a profound reminder that true liberation comes from taking up higher ideals and surrendering to a duty-bound existence, bringing instant peace and freedom from agitation.The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities)  and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.orgInterested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: ⁠https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita
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Dec 17, 2024 • 10min

Ep 380: The Gita Ch. 17

In this episode, we dive into Chapter 17 of the Bhagavad Gita, exploring the concept of "determined faith" (Shraddha) and how it shapes our lives. This chapter reveals that we become what we believe, and our faith directs the course of our lives. We discuss how to channel this faith effectively, the dangers of misplaced ambition, and the importance of aligning our goals with higher ideals. This reflection serves as a guide to help you reorient your faith towards your true purpose and unlock your full potential.The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities)  and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.orgInterested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: ⁠https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita
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Dec 17, 2024 • 10min

Ep 379: The Gita Ch. 16

Chapter 16 of the Bhagavad Gita reveals the stark contrast between divine and demonic qualities that shape our actions and outcomes. According to Advaita Vedanta philosophy, the divine qualities—such as fearlessness, charity, and self-restraint—lead to spiritual growth and inner peace, while demonic qualities like arrogance, anger, and ignorance lead to self-inflicted suffering and agitation. This episode explores these qualities and their impact on our journey toward liberation and self-realization.The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities)  and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.orgInterested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: ⁠https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita
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Dec 16, 2024 • 6min

Ep 378: The Gita Ch. 15

In this reflection on Chapter 15 of the Bhagavad Gita, we explore the metaphor of the sacred fig tree and its symbolism of attachment to the material world. Krishna’s teaching emphasizes the importance of non-attachment and the role of intellect in cutting the roots of these attachments. As we reflect on how the tree grows and spreads its roots, we gain insight into how our desires can entangle us in the material world, and how detachment, like a sharp axe, is needed to sever these ties and reach spiritual growth.The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities)  and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.orgInterested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: ⁠https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita
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Dec 15, 2024 • 10min

Ep 377: The Gita Ch. 14

In Chapter 14 of the Bhagavad Gita, we explore the concept of the three gunas—Tamas, Rajas, and Sattva—that define our personality and behavior. These qualities, ranging from lethargy to action to transcendence, influence how we think, feel, and act. By understanding the proportions of each guna within ourselves, we can learn to rise above them, making conscious choices in our daily lives. This reflection offers insights on how these ancient principles guide us toward greater wisdom and self-realization.The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities)  and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.orgInterested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: ⁠https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita
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Dec 14, 2024 • 9min

Ep 376: The Gita Ch. 13

In this episode, we dive into Chapter 13 of the Bhagavad Gita, exploring the profound distinction between the field (our body and mind) and the knower of the field (consciousness). Discover how this wisdom invites us to identify not with the transient phenomena we observe but with the eternal witness within. From ancient teachings like Tattvam Asi to the practical power of self-reflection, this chapter reveals timeless insights for navigating life's experiences with clarity and depth.The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities)  and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.orgInterested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: ⁠https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita
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Dec 13, 2024 • 9min

Ep 375: The Gita Ch. 12

In Chapter 12 of the Bhagavad Gita, we explore Bhakti Yoga, the path of devotion. This chapter highlights 35 qualities of a devoted individual, emphasizing balance, humility, and self-sufficiency. Discover how these timeless teachings resonate with modern life, focusing on the profound idea of maintaining equanimity amidst pleasure and pain. Join us as we dive into this poetic dialogue between a warrior prince and his guide, offering wisdom for all paths of life.The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities)  and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.orgInterested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: ⁠https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita
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Dec 13, 2024 • 5min

Ep 374: The Gita Ch. 11

In Chapter 11 of the Bhagavad Gita, Arjuna witnesses Krishna’s cosmic form, a dazzling display of countless faces, arms, and divine radiance likened to a thousand suns. This revelation symbolizes the profound transformation necessary for true understanding, as Arjuna grapples with divine wisdom amidst the battlefield. Reflecting on this moment, we explore the dual meanings of illumination: the ability to see clearly within and the lightening of burdens through enlightenment.The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities)  and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.orgInterested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: ⁠https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita
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Dec 12, 2024 • 7min

Ep 373: The Gita Ch. 10

In Chapter 10 of the Bhagavad Gita, "The Yoga of Supreme Manifestation," Krishna reveals the infinite nature of the divine that resides in all things. This reflection explores the philosophy of Tat Tvam Asi—You Are That—and its practical implications for how we perceive ourselves and others. Join us as we unpack verse 20, Krishna's profound declaration, and how it reminds us of our divine essence and interconnectedness with the universe.The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities)  and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.orgInterested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: ⁠https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita
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Dec 10, 2024 • 13min

Ep 372: The Gita Ch. 9

In this reflection on Chapter 9 of the Bhagavad Gita, we uncover the "Royal Secret," the ultimate wisdom central to both the Gita and our inner battles. This chapter, the heart of the Gita, speaks to the universal quest for peace and prosperity—not as external achievements, but as profound inner states. Through Krishna's teachings to Arjuna, we explore how single-pointed focus on the divine leads to union and supreme bliss, unveiling the timeless truth of who we truly are.The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities)  and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.orgInterested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: ⁠https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita

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