Which Bhagavad Gītā translation is best for a beginner?

one with the Sanskrit, a word-by-word meaning and a short commentary from a living tradition.

There is no single best one; there is one that suits you. In Hindi, the Gita Press editions (Gorakhpur) are inexpensive, faithful and found in almost every home. In English, many beginners like Eknath Easwaran for simplicity, Swami Chinmayananda or Swami Sivananda for clear Vedānta, and the ISKCON edition by A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami for a devotional Vaiṣṇava reading. Readers who want classical depth can find English translations of Śaṅkara's and Rāmānuja's commentaries.

It helps to know that every translation carries a viewpoint. A verse can be read through Advaita, Viśiṣṭādvaita or Dvaita, and each is a serious, old tradition.

A good method: read one edition steadily, then later compare a difficult verse in a second. If you can, join a weekly study circle — the Gītā opens up most when it is discussed.

Tip: pick an edition with word-by-word meaning · Source: classical commentaries (bhāṣyas)

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