The Bhagavad Gita: The Song of God Retold in Simplified English is the latest title in the Essential Wisdom Library. This unique edition of the timeless epic is designed to be accessible for readers without any prior experience of Hinduism. Not simply a translation of the original, Viljoen has simplified and restated the Gita’s complex ideas, so that a first-time reader can fully appreciate the scope and beauty of this magnificent Indian classic. Written in concise, modern language the retelling vividly captures the power and depth of the original work. Part of the Mahabharata, the Gita is a dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna. Its verses contain some of the key ideas of Hindu philosophy―Dharma, Moksha, and various yogic practices. Originally written well over a thousand years ago, the Gita has proven to be a timeless source of wisdom, inspiring philosophers and revolutionaries alike in the millennia since it was written. In addition to the retelling of the text, this edition includes a character list, a glossary of important terms, and chapters exploring the back-story from the Mahabharata and the impact and meaning of the Bhagavad Gita itself. The Bhagavad Gita is an approachable way for today’s readers to engage with one of history's richest spiritual epics. “While there is only one ultimate Truth (and always has been)―God is All that is―from antiquity there have been numerous messengers of the Truth; some of whom have been more clear and with less of a personal agenda. In The Bhagavad Gita: The Song of God Retold in Simplified English , Edward Viljoen’s voice comes through with clarity and authenticity, in an exquisite manner, making accessible for the western mind the profound wisdom contained in the original teaching of Oneness. Read this book―it will open your eyes to the greatest mystery of all; how to realize that what you are looking for you are looking with. This story is about YOU. It’s all God!” ―Dennis Merritt Jones, bestselling author of, The Art of Abundance: Ten Rules for a Prosperous Life and The Art of Uncertainty: How to live in the Mystery of Life and Love It "Before reading The Bhagavad Gita: The Song of God Retold in Simplified English , my understanding of The Bhagavad Gita was basic, at best. This was the perfect book for me! Edward Viljoen led me through an overview of this sacred text with grace, clarity, and deep wisdom. My future studies of the Gita will be informed and enhanced by this marvelous book." ―Rev. Z Egloff, author of Leap and Verge "For those who want to look into the wonderful history of The Bhagavad Gita , one of the essential classics of Hinduism, Edward Viljoen has given the reader a perfect entry. Viljoen has readily explained his intentions and methods to us so that we may enjoy the cast of characters and realize, in beautiful but simple writing, the wisdom of this tome in approachable terms that are a pleasure to experience. Within a few pages the reader will find him or herself on intimate terms with Prince Arjuna, Lord Krishna and the other moving characters in what might otherwise be a daunting, devotional work. Simply put, The Gita is a journey of self-discovery, and Viljoen's clarifying prose helps to make this apparent. By all means, enjoy the journey!" ―Dr. Margaret Stortz, Minister Emeritus of the Oakland Center for Spiritual Living Former President, Centers for Spiritual Living, Former Chair of the Board, Centers for Spiritual Living "The Bhagavad-Gita can be daunting to even the most avid scholar, which is unfortunate since it is one of the richest, most essential works in the canon of religious literature. Edward Viljoen's retelling of this Hindu scripture in The Bhagavad-Gita: The Song of God Retold in Simplified English is the best way for beginners to understand the sacred text. Searing in its clarity, this book reveals the classic beauty and power of the Bhagavad-Gita." ―Dr. Chris Michaels, Spiritual Director, Center for Spiritual Living Ft Lauderdale "Like many spiritual seekers today, I left my traditional Western religion behind and went in search of new inspiration. But without a working knowledge of Eastern philosophies and traditions, I found myself lost in a maze of sacred scriptures that I couldn't understand. And then I read Dr. Viljoen’s' clear and simple book on the Bhagavad-Gita and it opened mind to a magnificent new world of truth and beauty. Read this book slowly and savor every chapter." ―Randall Friesen, Publisher "With The Bhagavad Gita: The Song of God Retold in Simplified English , Edward Viljoen provides access to this profound sacred text in the comfort of modern English. It is my sincere hope that this invites many more people to explore the Gita and be inspired. Our complex modern world is navigated more wisely by those who study ancient wisdom. Edward Viljoen has invited many more of us into that wisdom with his beautiful rendition of this text." ―Jim Lockard, author of Cre