Edwin Arnold 
The Song Celestial or Bhagavad-Gita 

Edwin Arnold’s ‘The Song Celestial or Bhagavad-Gita’ is a poetic rendition of the ancient Indian scripture, the Bhagavad Gita. Arnold’s literary style gracefully captures the essence of the original Sanskrit text, bringing to life the philosophical dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Through rich imagery and profound verse, Arnold explores timeless themes of duty, righteousness, and the eternal soul, making this classic work accessible to a wider audience in the Western world. The book serves as a valuable introduction to Hindu philosophy and spirituality, offering readers a glimpse into the intricate teachings of the Gita in a poetic and engaging manner. Arnold’s adaptation of this sacred text is a testament to his deep respect for Eastern wisdom and his skill as a poet and translator. His insightful commentary provides a unique perspective on the Gita, making it a compelling read for both scholars and spiritual seekers alike.

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Sir Edwin Arnold (1832–1904) was an English poet and journalist, renowned for his contribution to the dissemination of Eastern philosophy and religious thought to Western audiences. Educated at King’s College, London, and University College, Oxford, Arnold developed an affinity for Asian literature and culture, which would heavily influence his literary output. His role as a propagandist for the British Empire was multifaceted; apart from being a poetry writer, he was also known for his work with ‘The Daily Telegraph’. A key figure in the popularisation of Indian scripture, Arnold’s translation of the Hindu classic ‘Bhagavad-Gita’, titled ‘The Song Celestial or Bhagavad-Gita’ (1885), remains one of his most famous works. Through his translating endeavors, Arnold presented the sacred text in a form of poetic blank verse, enabling Victorian England to engage with the philosophical and spiritual depth of Indian thought. His rendition, while capturing the essence of the original Sanskrit, exhibits Arnold’s distinct literary style, which is both lyrical and didactic. This work, along with others like ‘The Light of Asia’ (1879) about the life and teachings of the Buddha, demonstrates Arnold’s role as a cultural intermediary and his contribution to the cross-pollination of East-West literary traditions. His scholarly and poetic approach to translation has left an indelible mark on the interpretation of Eastern philosophical texts in the English-speaking world.