Overcoming the cycle of birth and death from "summary" of Bhagavad-Gita As It Is by A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
The cycle of birth and death is a fundamental aspect of material existence, as described in the Bhagavad-Gita. According to the Bhagavad-Gita, the living entity transmigrates from one body to another at the time of death. This cycle of birth and death is known as samsara, and it is characterized by repeated suffering and temporary happiness. To overcome this cycle of birth and death, one must understand the true nature of the self. The Bhagavad-Gita teaches that the living entity is not the material body but the eternal soul, which is part and parcel of the Supreme Soul, Krishna. By realizing this eternal spiritual identity, one can transcend the cycle of birth and death. To achieve liberation from samsara, one must engage in devotional service to the Supreme Lord, Krishna. This devotional service involves cultivating a loving relationship with Krishna through activities such as chanting His holy names, hearing and reading about His pastimes, and offering Him prayers and worship. By developing this loving relationship with Krishna, one can purify the heart and transcend the material world.- The goal of life is to attain the spiritual world, where there is no birth, death, old age, or disease. In the spiritual world, the living entities engage in eternal, blissful service to the Supreme Lord, Krishna. By surrendering to Krishna and dedicating one's life to His service, one can break free from the cycle of birth and death and attain the ultimate goal of human life: eternal happiness and love in the association of the Supreme Lord.
