Will Syria Return to Peace: Lessons From the Bhagavad Gita

As we observe Gita Jayanti, it is an opportune moment to reflect on global upheavals, their outcomes, and how the the Hindu scripture’s timeless wisdom can guide us forward.

Our world is experiencing unprecedented turmoil. From the Arab Spring to regime changes in Bangladesh and Syria, the rapid transformation of nations’ destinies is both astounding and unsettling. As we observe Gita Jayanti, it is an opportune moment to reflect on global upheavals, their outcomes, and how the Bhagavad Gita’s timeless wisdom can guide us forward.

The Arab Spring, beginning a decade ago, inspired hopes for democracy across the Middle East and North Africa. Yet, its outcomes starkly contrast between progress and regression. Tunisia remains the sole success story, transitioning to a democratic government with regular elections. In contrast, Egypt briefly embraced democracy, only to regress into authoritarianism under new leadership. Libya and Syria plunged into protracted conflicts, while Bahrain stifled dissent despite token reforms.

The aftermath of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan tells a similar story of regression. The Taliban swiftly reinstated a regime that severely restricted women’s freedoms and access to public spaces. Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s recent regime change has exacerbated violence against minorities. Hindu and Christian communities face accusations of blasphemy and treason, with extremist mobs meting out unchecked street justice.

Syria now stands at a crossroads. With the fall of the Assad regime, the question looms: will it emulate Tunisia’s democratic resilience or descend into chaos and autocracy like its peers? For its people, scattered across Europe, this moment could signal hope or despair. Here, the Bhagavad Geeta offers profound guidance for navigating such times.

Rooted in the Mahabharata, the Geeta unfolds on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, symbolizing humanity’s inner and outer struggles. Its teachings transcend religion, offering insights into leadership, ethics, and sustainability. Four key lessons illuminate paths for resolving modern conflicts:

Change

मात्रास्पर्शास्तु कौन्तेय शीतोष्णसुखदु:खदा: |

आगमापायिनोऽनित्यास्तांस्तितिक्षस्व भारत || (2.14)

This shloka underscores that change is an inevitable aspect of life. Leaders and communities facing crises — climate change, political instability, or economic upheaval—can benefit from adopting a balanced mindset to endure hardships and adapt to evolving realities. The Gita emphasizes the transient nature of the material world, urging us to maintain equanimity in the face of fluctuations. The post-change leadership should rise above raw emotion and display adaptability to identify and address systemic problems, vision for the welfare of all segments of society, and resilience from initial setbacks.

Conscientious Action

स्वे स्वे कर्मण्यभिरत: संसिद्धिं लभते नर: |

स्वकर्मनिरत: सिद्धिं यथा विन्दति तच्छृणु || (18.45)

By fulfilling their duties, born of their innate qualities, human beings can attain perfection. The concept of dharma, or righteous duty, is central to the Gita’s teachings. In times of ambiguity, it calls upon individuals and leaders to act selflessly, while upholding ethical principles. Navigating change and addressing conflicts requires leaders to align the interests of the individuals and the movement fostering change with the broader good of society, fostering cooperation rather than division.

Sustainability

यज्ञार्थात्कर्मणोऽन्यत्र लोकोऽयं कर्मबन्धन: |

तदर्थं कर्म कौन्तेय मुक्तसङ्ग: समाचर || (3.9)

कर्मण्येवाधिकारस्ते मा फलेषु कदाचन | (2.47)

These and a few such verses from the Gita talk about selfless action, sustainable practices, ethical consumption, the stewardship of resources, and the spirit of sacrifice. This teaching inspires individuals to act without attachment to outcomes, fostering a culture of integrity and perseverance. In the modern world, where instant gratification often supersedes meaningful contribution, this philosophy encourages sustained effort for long-term benefit.

Lalit Kumar’s Poetry Collection Rekindles the Stories of Many Migrants Who Were Called to California

Policy-making

यद्यदाचरति श्रेष्ठस्तत्तदेवेतरो जन: |

स यत्प्रमाणं कुरुते लोकस्तदनुवर्तते || (3.21)

उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं नात्मानमवसादयेत् |

आत्मैव ह्यात्मनो बन्धुरात्मैव रिपुरात्मन: || (6.5)

In the Gita, Lord Krishna’s guidance to Arjuna exemplifies compassionate and decisive leadership. It underscores the responsibility of leaders to set ethical examples. In today’s polarized political climate, leaders must demonstrate courage, wisdom, and accountability to inspire trust and unity. The second shloka talks about elevating oneself through the power of the mind, and not degrading oneself, for the mind can be the friend and also the enemy of the self. This applies to nations and societies desiring positive transformation in recognizing their civilizational strengths and awakening their collective conscience to chart out a path that unites. This unity and collective will would ensure that change is sustained and elevated for the greater good.

Thus, the Bhagavad Gita provides profound insights for navigating a rapidly changing and conflict-ridden world. Its timeless lessons on embracing change, upholding dharma, practicing selfless action, fostering sustainability, and ethical leadership are more relevant than ever. By integrating these principles into personal and societal frameworks, societies can aspire for a more harmonious and resilient future. The Geeta reminds us that while challenges are inevitable, so is our capacity to rise above them with wisdom and integrity.

Sources:

Anil Kothari is an Oklahoma City-based mechanical engineer, yoga practitioner, and yoga teacher.