by Mahatma Gandhi

The meaning of Gita is to be understood in a broader sense. Here, Gita means a scripture that not only supports us, but it is also our lifeline.

As many of us follow this particular scripture, I have taken liberty to call it "Gita." For others it may either be Quran or Bible. For serious students, it is best to understand the Gita in its original form, i.e. in Sanskrit. However, those who find this difficult should understand and memorize it in any other language. People with a different faith may memorize a scripture of their own choice.

It is essential to understand the purpose of memorizing the scriptures. This is not intended to be a memory test. To benefit fully, we must think and practice according to their direct message -- in other words we must walk like we talk. We should never distort or twist any of the original principles from these scriptures to suit our convenience. We must understand the true meaning of any spiritual message.

There is a definite advantage in memorizing these scriptures. It will stay with us all the time even when our faculties may get impaired. It will prove to be a guiding light during moments of despair and distress. One cannot imagine of any other source more reliable than Gita during such disasters.

The world's experience echoes the same theme. Our ancestors (Hindus, Muslims, Jews or Christians) used to memorize certain portions of their scriptures. This tradition is carried out even today. It will be unwise to disregard this priceless experience.

Let us demonstrate our commitment to the Eternal Truth by memorizing a scripture like the Gita.