The fifty-first 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 10:01, Swamiji discusses what it means to be "beloved of God," who were the saptarishis and the manus, and a humorous story of St. Teresa of Avila, among other topics.

• God's Nature: God is described not as a person with human-like emotions or ego but as a supreme being or "Purusha." God knows and values us as part of His being.
• Beloved by God: Humans are considered beloved by God, but the concept of love here transcends conventional religious ideas. It's not about loving an unknown entity but recognizing our inherent connection with Divinity.
• Purpose of Worship: Worship is not for God's benefit but for ours, likened to therapy for healing, elevating, and clarifying consciousness. It's about personal transformation rather than appeasing a deity.
• Universal Source: God is the origin of everything, including gods, seers, humans, and all aspects of nature. This understanding is crucial for spiritual growth.
• Yoga and Knowledge: True knowledge and intelligence come from God. Yoga is not just an abstract concept but a practical path (sadhana) for realizing this truth, leading to non-delusion, forbearance, truthfulness, self-restraint, and equanimity.
• Human Conditions: All human conditions like happiness, suffering, birth, death, fear, and fearlessness are manifestations from God. Understanding this helps in transcending personal ego and reactions.
• Moral and Ethical Living: Traits like non-injury, impartiality, contentment, and almsgiving are highlighted as arising from God, promoting a life of virtue and compassion.
• Reputation and External Influences: Both good and ill repute should not affect one's inner peace or spiritual practice, as they are external phenomena.
• Hierarchy and Creation: There's a mention of ancient sages and beings involved in the creation process, indicating a divine hierarchy where God is the ultimate source, but various beings facilitate the creation.
• Spiritual Practice (Yoga): Yoga is emphasized as the path to unite with God. It involves unwavering practice and living a life that reflects spiritual truths, not just acknowledging them intellectually.
• Worship and Realization: True worship involves recognizing and living in accordance with God's worth, leading to a deeper personal realization of divinity within oneself.
• Steadfastness in Spirituality: The talk underscores the need for constant steadfastness in spiritual pursuit, akin to being "nailed down with the love for God," suggesting a life of intense devotion and practice.

This talk aims to clarify misunderstandings about God's nature, the purpose of life, and spiritual practices, advocating for a life aligned with divine principles for true awakening.