Verses for when you feel
441 verses tagged for this mood
तमुवाच हृषीकेशः प्रहसन्निव भारत | सेनयोरुभयोर्मध्ये विषीदन्तमिदं वचः ||२-१०||
Seeing Arjuna overwhelmed with sorrow between the two armies, Krishna begins to speak. His gentle, almost smiling manner shows the calm assurance of a teacher who knows that even deep confusion can be cleared by true understanding.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | अशोच्यानन्वशोचस्त्वं प्रज्ञावादांश्च भाषसे | गतासूनगतासूंश्च नानुशोचन्ति पण्डिताः ||२-११||
Krishna tells Arjuna that his grief comes from seeing death as the final end. A truly wise person understands that the deepest self is not destroyed when the body dies, and therefore does not become overwhelmed by sorrow for either the living or the dead. This is not a command to be heartless; it is an invitation to see life and loss with deeper understanding.
न त्वेवाहं जातु नासं न त्वं नेमे जनाधिपाः | न चैव न भविष्यामः सर्वे वयमतः परम् ||२-१२||
Krishna tells Arjuna that the true Self is not limited to the birth and death of the body. There was never a time when Krishna, Arjuna, or these kings did not exist, and their essential being will not cease in the future. This teaching begins to loosen the fear and sorrow that come from seeing death as a complete ending.
देहिनोऽस्मिन्यथा देहे कौमारं यौवनं जरा | तथा देहान्तरप्राप्तिर्धीरस्तत्र न मुह्यति ||२-१३||
The body keeps changing—from childhood to youth to old age—yet the conscious self within continues through these changes. Krishna says that death, too, is a transition into another body, so a person with steady understanding is not overwhelmed by grief or confusion about it.
मात्रास्पर्शास्तु कौन्तेय शीतोष्णसुखदुःखदाः | आगमापायिनोऽनित्यास्तांस्तितिक्षस्व भारत ||२-१४||
Pleasure and pain, comfort and discomfort—like heat and cold—come and go because they arise from changing circumstances and sensory experiences. Krishna asks Arjuna not to be shaken by every passing feeling, but to face them with patience and inner steadiness.
यं हि न व्यथयन्त्येते पुरुषं पुरुषर्षभ | समदुःखसुखं धीरं सोऽमृतत्वाय कल्पते ||२-१५||
Krishna says that real inner strength is not being shaken by every comfort or hardship that comes your way. A steady person learns to meet pleasure and pain with balance, and this steadiness prepares them to realise the deathless Self.
नासतो विद्यते भावो नाभावो विद्यते सतः | उभयोरपि दृष्टोऽन्तस्त्वनयोस्तत्त्वदर्शिभिः ||२-१६||
What is truly real does not disappear, and what is unreal has no lasting existence. Wise people learn to distinguish the eternal Self from the changing body, emotions, situations, and appearances; this clarity loosens the grip of grief and fear.
अविनाशि तु तद्विद्धि येन सर्वमिदं ततम् | विनाशमव्ययस्यास्य न कश्चित्कर्तुमर्हति ||२-१७||
Krishna says that the true Self—the conscious presence within every being—pervades all of existence and can never be destroyed. Bodies and circumstances may change, but this eternal reality remains untouched, giving us a deeper ground of courage beyond loss and fear.
य एनं वेत्ति हन्तारं यश्चैनं मन्यते हतम् | उभौ तौ न विजानीतो नायं हन्ति न हन्यते ||२-१९||
Krishna says that the true Self—the deepest spiritual reality within us—does not kill and cannot be killed. Bodies may act, change, and perish, but the Self is beyond physical birth and death; mistaking it for the body is the root of this misunderstanding.
न जायते म्रियते वा कदाचिन् नायं भूत्वा भविता वा न भूयः | अजो नित्यः शाश्वतोऽयं पुराणो न हन्यते हन्यमाने शरीरे ||२-२०||
Your true Self is not the body, so it is never born and never dies. Bodies change and eventually perish, but the conscious Self remains eternal, unchanged, and beyond destruction. Krishna offers this teaching to loosen the fear and grief that come from seeing death as the end of a person’s being.
वासांसि जीर्णानि यथा विहाय नवानि गृह्णाति नरोऽपराणि | तथा शरीराणि विहाय जीर्णा- न्यन्यानि संयाति नवानि देही ||२-२२||
Just as we replace old clothes when they are worn out, the eternal Self leaves behind a body that has completed its time and takes on another. Krishna uses this image to remind Arjuna that death is not the end of the true Self, so grief should be softened by understanding the soul’s continuity.
नैनं छिन्दन्ति शस्त्राणि नैनं दहति पावकः | न चैनं क्लेदयन्त्यापो न शोषयति मारुतः ||२-२३||
Your true Self, the Atman, cannot be harmed by anything physical. No weapon can cut it, no fire can burn it, no water can soak it, and no wind can dry it. Krishna reminds Arjuna that the soul is beyond the changing conditions of the body and the material world.
अच्छेद्योऽयमदाह्योऽयमक्लेद्योऽशोष्य एव च | नित्यः सर्वगतः स्थाणुरचलोऽयं सनातनः ||२-२४||
The true Self within you cannot be harmed by any physical force or changed by the passing conditions of life. It is eternal, steady, and present everywhere; recognizing this deeper reality helps us face loss, fear, and change with greater inner peace.
अव्यक्तोऽयमचिन्त्योऽयमविकार्योऽयमुच्यते | तस्मादेवं विदित्वैनं नानुशोचितुमर्हसि ||२-२५||
The true Self cannot be seen with the eyes, fully grasped by the mind, or changed by anything that happens to the body. Knowing that this inner reality is beyond birth and death, Krishna asks Arjuna not to be consumed by grief.
अथ चैनं नित्यजातं नित्यं वा मन्यसे मृतम् | तथापि त्वं महाबाहो नैवं शोचितुमर्हसि ||२-२६||
Even if you see life only as a continuous cycle of birth and death, there is still no reason to be consumed by grief. Change and mortality are part of life’s natural order; accepting this truth with courage helps us face loss without losing our inner strength.
जातस्य हि ध्रुवो मृत्युर्ध्रुवं जन्म मृतस्य च | तस्मादपरिहार्येऽर्थे न त्वं शोचितुमर्हसि ||२-२७||
Everyone who is born will one day die, and death is followed by another birth in the ongoing cycle of life. Krishna reminds Arjuna that this reality cannot be avoided; recognising it does not erase love or loss, but it can help us meet grief with greater steadiness and wisdom.
अव्यक्तादीनि भूतानि व्यक्तमध्यानि भारत | अव्यक्तनिधनान्येव तत्र का परिदेवना ||२-२८||
Krishna reminds Arjuna that every body and life-form appears for a time and then passes from view; before birth and after death, it is not seen in the same way. This natural cycle of coming and going can soften our grief and help us face loss with a wider, steadier understanding.
आश्चर्यवत्पश्यति कश्चिदेन- माश्चर्यवद्वदति तथैव चान्यः | आश्चर्यवच्चैनमन्यः शृणोति श्रुत्वाप्येनं वेद न चैव कश्चित् ||२-२९||
The true Self is so subtle and profound that people may speak about it, listen to teachings about it, or even glimpse it as something extraordinary—yet still not truly understand it. Realising who we are beyond the changing body and mind requires deeper reflection and inner experience, not merely hearing words.
देही नित्यमवध्योऽयं देहे सर्वस्य भारत | तस्मात्सर्वाणि भूतानि न त्वं शोचितुमर्हसि ||२-३०||
Krishna reminds Arjuna that the true Self living within every body can never be destroyed. Bodies may perish, but the inner soul is eternal; seeing this deeper truth helps us meet death and loss with compassion and steadiness rather than helpless grief.
सुखदुःखे समे कृत्वा लाभालाभौ जयाजयौ | ततो युद्धाय युज्यस्व नैवं पापमवाप्स्यसि ||२-३८||
Keep your mind steady through pleasure and pain, profit and loss, success and failure. When you do what is right without being driven by the outcome, you can act with clarity and without the burden of wrongdoing.
भोगैश्वर्यप्रसक्तानां तयापहृतचेतसाम् | व्यवसायात्मिका बुद्धिः समाधौ न विधीयते ||२-४४||
When we become overly absorbed in comfort, luxury, status, or the promise of worldly rewards, our attention gets scattered. A mind pulled in many directions cannot develop the steady clarity needed for inner peace, focused action, and spiritual growth.
त्रैगुण्यविषया वेदा निस्त्रैगुण्यो भवार्जुन | निर्द्वन्द्वो नित्यसत्त्वस्थो निर्योगक्षेम आत्मवान् ||२-४५||
Arjuna, do not let your life be ruled by the changing pulls of pleasure and pain, gain and loss, or constant worry about getting and keeping things. Stay grounded in clarity and inner balance, focus on what is right, and remain connected to your deeper Self.
यावानर्थ उदपाने सर्वतः सम्प्लुतोदके | तावान्सर्वेषु वेदेषु ब्राह्मणस्य विजानतः ||२-४६||
When someone directly realizes the Self, the deeper purpose of all spiritual teachings becomes clear to them. Scriptures and rituals remain valuable guides, but for one who has reached that inner wisdom, they are like a small well when water is available everywhere after a flood—useful, yet no longer the only source of nourishment.
कर्मण्येवाधिकारस्ते मा फलेषु कदाचन | मा कर्मफलहेतुर्भूर्मा ते सङ्गोऽस्त्वकर्मणि ||२-४७||
Your responsibility is to give your best to the work in front of you; the final result is never fully in your control. Do not act only for rewards, praise, or success, but do not use this teaching as an excuse to avoid action either. Focus sincerely on the effort, and meet outcomes with steadiness.
योगस्थः कुरु कर्माणि सङ्गं त्यक्त्वा धनञ्जय | सिद्ध्यसिद्ध्योः समो भूत्वा समत्वं योग उच्यते ||२-४८||
Do your work with a steady mind, without tying your peace to whether you succeed or fail. Give your best effort, but do not let the result control your inner balance; this calm equality is what Krishna calls Yoga.
दूरेण ह्यवरं कर्म बुद्धियोगाद्धनञ्जय | बुद्धौ शरणमन्विच्छ कृपणाः फलहेतवः ||२-४९||
Arjuna, acting with a clear, steady mind is far greater than acting only to chase results. Do your work sincerely, but do not make success, profit, praise, or failure the sole reason for doing it; people who live only for outcomes keep themselves trapped in disappointment and worry.
बुद्धियुक्तो जहातीह उभे सुकृतदुष्कृते | तस्माद्योगाय युज्यस्व योगः कर्मसु कौशलम् ||२-५०||
When you act with a steady, wise mind instead of chasing rewards or fearing failure, your actions no longer bind you to pride over success or guilt over mistakes. So practise Yoga: bring presence, balance, and integrity to what you do. True skill in action is not merely getting results—it is doing your duty well without losing your inner peace.
कर्मजं बुद्धियुक्ता हि फलं त्यक्त्वा मनीषिणः | जन्मबन्धविनिर्मुक्ताः पदं गच्छन्त्यनामयम् ||२-५१||
Wise people do their work with a steady, clear mind, without making their happiness depend on success, praise, or reward. By letting go of this attachment to results, they free themselves from the cycle of suffering and move toward a state of lasting peace.
यदा ते मोहकलिलं बुद्धिर्व्यतितरिष्यति | तदा गन्तासि निर्वेदं श्रोतव्यस्य श्रुतस्य च ||२-५२||
When your mind rises above confusion and mistaken beliefs, you will no longer be constantly pulled by every new opinion, teaching, or promise you hear. You gain the inner clarity to recognise what truly matters instead of chasing endless information and external answers.
श्रुतिविप्रतिपन्ना ते यदा स्थास्यति निश्चला | समाधावचला बुद्धिस्तदा योगमवाप्स्यसि ||२-५३||
When your mind is no longer pulled in different directions by conflicting ideas and advice, and becomes steady in inner awareness, you will attain yoga—the state of deep inner balance and union with the Self.
अर्जुन उवाच स्थितप्रज्ञस्य का भाषा समाधिस्थस्य केशव | स्थितधीः किं प्रभाषेत किमासीत व्रजेत किम् ||२-५४||
Arjuna asks Krishna how a person with truly steady wisdom lives in the world. He wants to understand the practical signs of inner peace: how such a person speaks, rests, and acts when their mind is firmly rooted in spiritual clarity.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | प्रजहाति यदा कामान्सर्वान्पार्थ मनोगतान् | आत्मन्येवात्मना तुष्टः स्थितप्रज्ञस्तदोच्यते ||२-५५||
Krishna says that steady wisdom begins when we stop being ruled by the endless wants arising in the mind. A person who discovers contentment within, rather than depending completely on possessions, praise, comfort, or outcomes, becomes inwardly stable and free.
दुःखेष्वनुद्विग्नमनाः सुखेषु विगतस्पृहः | वीतरागभयक्रोधः स्थितधीर्मुनिरुच्यते ||२-५६||
A person of steady wisdom does not fall apart when life becomes painful, nor become restless chasing pleasure when things go well. Free from compulsive attachment, fear, and anger, they remain inwardly balanced through both hardship and happiness.
यः सर्वत्रानभिस्नेहस्तत्तत्प्राप्य शुभाशुभम् | नाभिनन्दति न द्वेष्टि तस्य प्रज्ञा प्रतिष्ठिता ||२-५७||
A person with steady wisdom does not become emotionally dependent on favourable events or bitter toward unfavourable ones. They meet success and failure, comfort and difficulty with inner balance, because their peace is not controlled by changing circumstances.
यदा संहरते चायं कूर्मोऽङ्गानीव सर्वशः | इन्द्रियाणीन्द्रियार्थेभ्यस्तस्य प्रज्ञा प्रतिष्ठिता ||२-५८||
A person’s wisdom becomes steady when they can draw their senses back from tempting sights, sounds, pleasures, and distractions—just as a tortoise pulls in its limbs when needed. This does not mean running away from the world; it means having the inner control not to be pulled wherever desire leads.
विषया विनिवर्तन्ते निराहारस्य देहिनः | रसवर्जं रसोऽप्यस्य परं दृष्ट्वा निवर्तते ||२-५९||
Simply avoiding pleasures or cutting yourself off from temptations may remove them from your life, but the inner craving can still remain. That deeper attraction fades only when you experience something higher and more fulfilling—the peace and joy of the Self.
तानि सर्वाणि संयम्य युक्त आसीत मत्परः | वशे हि यस्येन्द्रियाणि तस्य प्रज्ञा प्रतिष्ठिता ||२-६१||
Bring all your senses under wise discipline and keep your mind anchored in the Divine. When cravings and impulses no longer pull you in every direction, your understanding becomes steady, clear, and dependable.
ध्यायतो विषयान्पुंसः सङ्गस्तेषूपजायते | सङ्गात्सञ्जायते कामः कामात्क्रोधोऽभिजायते ||२-६२||
What we repeatedly dwell on begins to hold our attention and create attachment. That attachment turns into craving, and when craving is blocked or unfulfilled, it can quickly become anger. Krishna points to the chain early: guard your thoughts before they grow into emotions that disturb your peace.
रागद्वेषविमुक्तैस्तु विषयानिन्द्रियैश्चरन् | (or वियुक्तैस्तु) आत्मवश्यैर्विधेयात्मा प्रसादमधिगच्छति ||२-६४||
Real self-control does not mean running away from the world or denying every pleasure. It means engaging with life while keeping your senses and mind under your own guidance, free from compulsive likes and dislikes. When attraction and aversion no longer control you, you naturally gain inner calm and clarity.
प्रसादे सर्वदुःखानां हानिरस्योपजायते | प्रसन्नचेतसो ह्याशु बुद्धिः पर्यवतिष्ठते ||२-६५||
When the mind becomes calm and inwardly peaceful, suffering begins to lose its hold on us. In that clarity, our judgment settles quickly, helping us respond wisely instead of being carried away by worry, desire, or emotional turmoil.
नास्ति बुद्धिरयुक्तस्य न चायुक्तस्य भावना | न चाभावयतः शान्तिरशान्तस्य कुतः सुखम् ||२-६६||
When the mind is scattered and pulled in different directions, clear understanding and deep reflection become difficult. Without inner focus, peace cannot grow—and without peace, lasting happiness remains out of reach. Krishna reminds us that real well-being begins by steadying the mind, rather than endlessly chasing external comforts.
तस्माद्यस्य महाबाहो निगृहीतानि सर्वशः | इन्द्रियाणीन्द्रियार्थेभ्यस्तस्य प्रज्ञा प्रतिष्ठिता ||२-६८||
Krishna says that real inner clarity comes when we do not let our senses constantly pull us toward tempting sights, pleasures, and distractions. This is not about rejecting the world, but about having enough self-control that our choices are guided by wisdom rather than impulse.
या निशा सर्वभूतानां तस्यां जागर्ति संयमी | यस्यां जाग्रति भूतानि सा निशा पश्यतो मुनेः ||२-६९||
Most people stay absorbed in worldly pleasures, status, and constant stimulation, but these hold little attraction for a person with self-control and clear inner vision. Instead, the wise person is awake to the deeper truth of the Self—the very reality that others often overlook or ignore.
आपूर्यमाणमचलप्रतिष्ठं समुद्रमापः प्रविशन्ति यद्वत् | तद्वत्कामा यं प्रविशन्ति सर्वे स शान्तिमाप्नोति न कामकामी ||२-७०||
Just as rivers keep flowing into the vast ocean without making it overflow or lose its stillness, a person of inner steadiness lets desires and experiences come and go without being controlled by them. Real peace belongs not to someone who chases every desire, but to one who remains complete within.
विहाय कामान्यः सर्वान्पुमांश्चरति निःस्पृहः | निर्ममो निरहङ्कारः स शान्तिमधिगच्छति ||२-७१||
Real peace comes when we stop being driven by endless wants and the constant need to possess or control things. A person who lets go of craving, “this is mine,” and the ego’s demand to be important can move through life with a calm and free mind.
एषा ब्राह्मी स्थितिः पार्थ नैनां प्राप्य विमुह्यति | स्थित्वास्यामन्तकालेऽपि ब्रह्मनिर्वाणमृच्छति ||२-७२||
Krishna says this is the state of a person rooted in the highest truth: they are no longer shaken by cravings, fear, or confusion. Even if someone becomes firmly established in this inner clarity at the very end of life, they attain lasting freedom and union with the Divine.
यस्त्विन्द्रियाणि मनसा नियम्यारभतेऽर्जुन | कर्मेन्द्रियैः कर्मयोगमसक्तः स विशिष्यते ||३-७||
Krishna says that real discipline is not about merely appearing detached or inactive. A person is wiser when they use the mind to guide the senses and carry out their responsibilities wholeheartedly, without being obsessed with personal gain or results. This is the practical path of Karma Yoga: steady, self-controlled action without attachment.
देवान्भावयतानेन ते देवा भावयन्तु वः | परस्परं भावयन्तः श्रेयः परमवाप्स्यथ ||३-११||
Krishna teaches that life works through mutual support and gratitude. When we perform our duties as an offering—with respect for the divine order, nature, and the people around us—those very forces sustain us in return. By nurturing this spirit of cooperation rather than selfish taking, we move toward true well-being.
यस्त्वात्मरतिरेव स्यादात्मतृप्तश्च मानवः | आत्मन्येव च सन्तुष्टस्तस्य कार्यं न विद्यते ||३-१७||
A person who has discovered deep fulfilment within does not depend on possessions, praise, or constant achievements to feel complete. Such inner contentment frees them from acting out of personal lack or selfish desire; it does not mean laziness, but freedom from the pressure to prove or gain something for oneself.
नैव तस्य कृतेनार्थो नाकृतेनेह कश्चन | न चास्य सर्वभूतेषु कश्चिदर्थव्यपाश्रयः ||३-१८||
A person who is truly fulfilled within does not feel incomplete because of success, nor guilty or diminished because something was left undone. They do not depend on other people or external achievements to feel secure; their inner contentment gives them freedom from constant craving and comparison.
तस्मादसक्तः सततं कार्यं कर्म समाचर | असक्तो ह्याचरन्कर्म परमाप्नोति पूरुषः ||३-१९||
Keep doing the work that is yours to do, but do not let your peace depend on the result. When you act sincerely without clinging to success, praise, or personal gain, your work becomes a path to inner freedom and spiritual growth.
तत्त्ववित्तु महाबाहो गुणकर्मविभागयोः | गुणा गुणेषु वर्तन्त इति मत्वा न सज्जते ||३-२८||
A person who understands life deeply does not get trapped in the thought, “I alone am doing everything.” They recognise that the senses naturally respond to the world around them, while the deeper Self remains a witness. This understanding helps them do their duties without clinging to outcomes, praise, or possessions.
मयि सर्वाणि कर्माणि संन्यस्याध्यात्मचेतसा | निराशीर्निर्ममो भूत्वा युध्यस्व विगतज्वरः ||३-३०||
Offer your work to God and do it with an inwardly steady mind. Let go of anxious expectations about results and the feeling of “this is mine”; then carry out your duty without the inner stress, hesitation, or agitation that holds you back.
ये मे मतमिदं नित्यमनुतिष्ठन्ति मानवाः | श्रद्धावन्तोऽनसूयन्तो मुच्यन्ते तेऽपि कर्मभिः ||३-३१||
Krishna says that people who follow this path of selfless action with faith, without constantly finding faults in it, gradually become free from the bondage created by their actions. When you do your duty sincerely and offer the results to a higher purpose, work no longer weighs down the mind.
स एवायं मया तेऽद्य योगः प्रोक्तः पुरातनः | भक्तोऽसि मे सखा चेति रहस्यं ह्येतदुत्तमम् ||४-३||
Krishna tells Arjuna that he is sharing this ancient path of Yoga with him because Arjuna is both a devoted seeker and a trusted friend. Its deepest wisdom is not merely information to be heard; it opens itself through faith, sincerity, and a close, trusting relationship with the Divine.
अजोऽपि सन्नव्ययात्मा भूतानामीश्वरोऽपि सन् | प्रकृतिं स्वामधिष्ठाय सम्भवाम्यात्ममायया ||४-६||
Krishna says that although He is eternal, unborn, and the supreme Lord of all beings, He still chooses to appear in the world through His own divine power. Unlike ordinary birth, His appearance is not forced by karma or helplessness; it is a free and purposeful act for the welfare of the world.
यदा यदा हि धर्मस्य ग्लानिर्भवति भारत | अभ्युत्थानमधर्मस्य तदात्मानं सृजाम्यहम् ||४-७||
Whenever injustice grows and the values that sustain a good life begin to weaken, Krishna says that He makes His presence known in the world. This verse offers hope that dharma is never abandoned forever: when darkness rises, divine support also works to restore balance and righteousness.
परित्राणाय साधूनां विनाशाय च दुष्कृताम् | धर्मसंस्थापनार्थाय सम्भवामि युगे युगे ||४-८||
Krishna says that whenever goodness is threatened and wrongdoing grows powerful, He manifests to protect those who live sincerely, restrain harmful forces, and restore dharma—the balance of truth, justice, and right action. It is a reassurance that the struggle for what is right is never abandoned, even when darkness seems strong.
जन्म कर्म च मे दिव्यमेवं यो वेत्ति तत्त्वतः | त्यक्त्वा देहं पुनर्जन्म नैति मामेति सोऽर्जुन ||४-९||
Krishna says that His birth and actions are not ordinary, driven by personal desire or karma like ours. When someone truly understands His divine purpose and lives with that understanding, they are freed from the cycle of repeated birth and death and ultimately reach Him.
वीतरागभयक्रोधा मन्मया मामुपाश्रिताः | बहवो ज्ञानतपसा पूता मद्भावमागताः ||४-१०||
Many people have reached God by letting go of obsessive attachment, fear, and anger. When they turn wholeheartedly toward Him, take refuge in Him, and purify their understanding through true knowledge and disciplined inner practice, they gradually become united with His divine nature.
ये यथा मां प्रपद्यन्ते तांस्तथैव भजाम्यहम् | मम वर्त्मानुवर्तन्ते मनुष्याः पार्थ सर्वशः ||४-११||
Krishna says that He responds to each person according to the sincerity and manner in which they turn toward Him. People may seek God through devotion, knowledge, selfless action, or even through worldly desires, but every genuine search moves along His path. The divine is not distant or unfair; our experience of grace deepens as our openness and surrender deepen.
न मां कर्माणि लिम्पन्ति न मे कर्मफले स्पृहा | इति मां योऽभिजानाति कर्मभिर्न स बध्यते ||४-१४||
Krishna acts fully to uphold what is right, yet remains untouched by action because He has no personal craving for results. When we understand this spirit and learn to do our duties without selfish attachment to reward, our actions no longer become chains that bind us.
कर्मण्यकर्म यः पश्येदकर्मणि च कर्म यः | स बुद्धिमान्मनुष्येषु स युक्तः कृत्स्नकर्मकृत् ||४-१८||
A wise person can stay inwardly still even while doing many tasks, because they act without ego or selfish attachment. And someone who appears inactive may still be caught up in restless thoughts and desires. True yoga is to understand this difference and perform every duty with clarity, presence, and freedom from personal craving.
यस्य सर्वे समारम्भाः कामसङ्कल्पवर्जिताः | ज्ञानाग्निदग्धकर्माणं तमाहुः पण्डितं बुधाः ||४-१९||
A truly wise person does not stop acting; they act without being driven by personal craving, ego, or imagined rewards. Their understanding burns away the binding effects of karma, so their work becomes clear, selfless, and free from inner attachment.
त्यक्त्वा कर्मफलासङ्गं नित्यतृप्तो निराश्रयः | कर्मण्यभिप्रवृत्तोऽपि नैव किञ्चित्करोति सः ||४-२०||
A person can work wholeheartedly without being trapped by the need for a particular result. When they find contentment within and do not depend on success, praise, or possessions for their peace, their actions no longer bind them; even while fully active, they remain inwardly free.
निराशीर्यतचित्तात्मा त्यक्तसर्वपरिग्रहः | शारीरं केवलं कर्म कुर्वन्नाप्नोति किल्बिषम् ||४-२१||
When you do your necessary work without craving rewards, possessions, or personal gain, and keep your mind disciplined, your actions do not bind you with guilt or inner burden. The verse is not asking you to abandon responsibility; it teaches you to act simply, honestly, and without possessiveness.
यदृच्छालाभसन्तुष्टो द्वन्द्वातीतो विमत्सरः | समः सिद्धावसिद्धौ च कृत्वापि न निबध्यते ||४-२२||
A person becomes inwardly free when they are content with what comes through honest effort, instead of constantly craving more or comparing themselves with others. They stay steady through comfort and discomfort, success and failure, and can continue doing their work without being trapped by anxiety, jealousy, or the need for results.
गतसङ्गस्य मुक्तस्य ज्ञानावस्थितचेतसः | यज्ञायाचरतः कर्म समग्रं प्रविलीयते ||४-२३||
When you do your work without clinging to personal rewards, and offer it as a sincere service to God or a higher purpose, your actions no longer bind you. A mind grounded in true understanding can act fully and responsibly while remaining inwardly free from guilt, ego, and the endless cycle of craving for results.
ब्रह्मार्पणं ब्रह्म हविर्ब्रह्माग्नौ ब्रह्मणा हुतम् | ब्रह्मैव तेन गन्तव्यं ब्रह्मकर्मसमाधिना ||४-२४||
When you act with the awareness that everything involved—the offering, the one who offers, the action itself, and its recipient—comes from the one Divine reality, ordinary work becomes sacred. By doing every action with this focused, selfless understanding, a person moves closer to realizing Brahman.
दैवमेवापरे यज्ञं योगिनः पर्युपासते | ब्रह्माग्नावपरे यज्ञं यज्ञेनैवोपजुह्वति ||४-२५||
People approach the sacred in different ways. Some worship the divine through traditional rituals, while others turn inward and offer their limited ego and sense of separateness into the awareness of Brahman. Krishna shows that when done with sincerity and understanding, spiritual practice can become a path to realizing the one divine reality.
श्रोत्रादीनीन्द्रियाण्यन्ये संयमाग्निषु जुह्वति | शब्दादीन्विषयानन्य इन्द्रियाग्निषु जुह्वति ||४-२६||
People practise self-discipline in different ways. Some consciously restrain their senses, while others learn to experience sounds, sights, and other pleasures without becoming controlled or distracted by them. Both paths turn everyday sense-experience into a spiritual practice through awareness and restraint.
सर्वाणीन्द्रियकर्माणि प्राणकर्माणि चापरे | आत्मसंयमयोगाग्नौ जुह्वति ज्ञानदीपिते ||४-२७||
Some people offer the restless activity of their senses and even the movements of their vital energy into the inner fire of self-discipline, illuminated by true understanding. In practice, this means learning to turn attention inward and consciously regulate impulses, breath, and reactions instead of being driven by them.
द्रव्ययज्ञास्तपोयज्ञा योगयज्ञास्तथापरे | स्वाध्यायज्ञानयज्ञाश्च यतयः संशितव्रताः ||४-२८||
People express spiritual dedication in different ways: some give their resources, some practise discipline and self-control, some follow the path of yoga, and others dedicate themselves to study and deeper understanding. The verse reminds us that sincere effort to grow, when guided by commitment and a higher purpose, can itself become an offering.
अपाने जुह्वति प्राणं प्राणेऽपानं तथापरे | प्राणापानगती रुद्ध्वा प्राणायामपरायणाः ||४-२९||
Some seekers turn the simple act of breathing into a spiritual practice. By carefully regulating the inward and outward breath, they steady the mind, gather their scattered energy, and cultivate inner discipline. The verse reminds us that sincere self-control and focused practice can become a form of offering to the Divine.
अपरे नियताहाराः प्राणान्प्राणेषु जुह्वति | सर्वेऽप्येते यज्ञविदो यज्ञक्षपितकल्मषाः ||४-३०||
Some people make disciplined eating and mindful regulation of the breath their form of spiritual practice. When everyday habits are guided by self-control and awareness, they become an inner offering that gradually cleanses the mind of harmful tendencies.
एवं बहुविधा यज्ञा वितता ब्रह्मणो मुखे | कर्मजान्विद्धि तान्सर्वानेवं ज्ञात्वा विमोक्ष्यसे ||४-३२||
There are many ways to offer oneself in the spirit of yajna—through service, discipline, learning, self-control, charity, and sincere work. Krishna says that all such offerings are carried out through action; when we understand this and act without selfish attachment, our actions become a path toward inner freedom.
यज्ज्ञात्वा न पुनर्मोहमेवं यास्यसि पाण्डव | येन भूतान्यशेषेण द्रक्ष्यस्यात्मन्यथो मयि (var अशेषाणि) ||४-३५||
When you truly understand the deeper nature of the Self and God, the confusion that troubles you now will begin to fall away. You will recognise that all beings are connected: they exist within the same divine reality, within the Self and within Krishna.
अपि चेदसि पापेभ्यः सर्वेभ्यः पापकृत्तमः | सर्वं ज्ञानप्लवेनैव वृजिनं सन्तरिष्यसि ||४-३६||
No matter how serious your past mistakes may feel, they do not have to define your future. True spiritual understanding—knowing your deeper self and turning towards what is right—can help you rise above guilt, harmful tendencies, and the consequences of ignorance, like a boat carrying you safely across rough waters.
यथैधांसि समिद्धोऽग्निर्भस्मसात्कुरुतेऽर्जुन | ज्ञानाग्निः सर्वकर्माणि भस्मसात्कुरुते तथा ||४-३७||
Just as a strong fire turns wood into ashes, true spiritual knowledge burns away the binding effects of past actions. When we understand our real nature and act with clarity rather than selfish attachment, guilt, fear, and the burden of karma no longer hold us captive.
न हि ज्ञानेन सदृशं पवित्रमिह विद्यते | तत्स्वयं योगसंसिद्धः कालेनात्मनि विन्दति ||४-३८||
Nothing cleanses the mind as deeply as true wisdom. Through steady spiritual practice and sincere effort, this understanding gradually arises within you, bringing clarity, freedom from inner confusion, and peace.
श्रद्धावाँल्लभते ज्ञानं तत्परः संयतेन्द्रियः | ज्ञानं लब्ध्वा परां शान्तिमचिरेणाधिगच्छति ||४-३९||
True understanding comes to someone who has faith, stays sincerely committed to the path, and learns not to be ruled by restless desires and impulses. When this wisdom becomes real within us, it gradually brings a deep peace that ordinary achievements and pleasures cannot give.
अज्ञश्चाश्रद्दधानश्च संशयात्मा विनश्यति | नायं लोकोऽस्ति न परो न सुखं संशयात्मनः ||४-४०||
Krishna warns that a person who is unwilling to learn, has no trust in the path, and remains trapped in constant doubt cannot move forward or find peace. Honest questions are valuable, but when doubt becomes a fixed habit that prevents understanding and action, it damages one’s happiness in this life and blocks spiritual growth.
योगसंन्यस्तकर्माणं ज्ञानसञ्छिन्नसंशयम् | आत्मवन्तं न कर्माणि निबध्नन्ति धनञ्जय ||४-४१||
Arjuna, when you offer your actions to a higher purpose instead of clinging to personal reward, work no longer traps you. Clear understanding cuts through paralysing doubt, and a person who is steady within can act fully in the world without being bound by guilt, fear, or the results of action.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | संन्यासः कर्मयोगश्च निःश्रेयसकरावुभौ | तयोस्तु कर्मसंन्यासात्कर्मयोगो विशिष्यते ||५-२||
Krishna says that both giving up worldly action and doing one’s duty without attachment can lead to spiritual freedom. But for most people, Karma Yoga is the better path: stay engaged in your responsibilities, do your work sincerely, and let go of the anxiety and ego tied to the results.
ज्ञेयः स नित्यसंन्यासी यो न द्वेष्टि न काङ्क्षति | निर्द्वन्द्वो हि महाबाहो सुखं बन्धात्प्रमुच्यते ||५-३||
A true renunciate is not someone who simply gives up work or worldly life. It is the person who does not live in hatred of what they dislike or restless craving for what they want. When we rise above these constant likes and dislikes, gains and losses, we gradually become free from the inner bondage that keeps us disturbed.
साङ्ख्ययोगौ पृथग्बालाः प्रवदन्ति न पण्डिताः | एकमप्यास्थितः सम्यगुभयोर्विन्दते फलम् ||५-४||
Only the immature see the path of inner wisdom and the path of selfless action as completely separate. When you sincerely follow either one in the right spirit, you move toward the same truth: freedom from ego and closeness to the Divine.
यत्साङ्ख्यैः प्राप्यते स्थानं तद्योगैरपि गम्यते | एकं साङ्ख्यं च योगं च यः पश्यति स पश्यति ||५-५||
Whether one reaches inner freedom through deep understanding and reflection or through selfless action, the destination is the same. Real wisdom is to see that sincere knowledge and detached action are not opposing paths; both can lead us closer to God when practised with the right spirit.
संन्यासस्तु महाबाहो दुःखमाप्तुमयोगतः | योगयुक्तो मुनिर्ब्रह्म नचिरेणाधिगच्छति ||५-६||
Krishna says that simply giving up work or worldly responsibilities is not easy unless the mind has first been trained through Yoga. When a person performs their duties with inner balance, self-control, and without clinging to results, they steadily grow closer to Brahman—the highest spiritual reality.
योगयुक्तो विशुद्धात्मा विजितात्मा जितेन्द्रियः | सर्वभूतात्मभूतात्मा कुर्वन्नपि न लिप्यते ||५-७||
A person who works with a steady, disciplined mind and self-control is not trapped by their actions. When they see the same divine Self present in every being, they can fulfil their responsibilities without selfishness, pride, or inner burden.
नैव किञ्चित्करोमीति युक्तो मन्येत तत्त्ववित् | पश्यञ्शृण्वन्स्पृशञ्जिघ्रन्नश्नन्गच्छन्स्वपञ्श्वसन् ||५-८||
A person established in inner awareness does not feel, “I alone am making everything happen.” Even while seeing, hearing, eating, walking, sleeping, and breathing, they recognise that the body and senses are carrying out their natural functions. This freedom from the ego of being the sole doer brings calmness and detachment in daily life.
प्रलपन्विसृजन्गृह्णन्नुन्मिषन्निमिषन्नपि | इन्द्रियाणीन्द्रियार्थेषु वर्तन्त इति धारयन् ||५-९||
A person rooted in inner awareness understands that even ordinary acts—speaking, taking, giving, opening or closing the eyes—are simply the senses engaging with the world. This perspective loosens the ego’s claim of “I am doing everything” and helps one act without becoming inwardly trapped by action.
ब्रह्मण्याधाय कर्माणि सङ्गं त्यक्त्वा करोति यः | लिप्यते न स पापेन पद्मपत्रमिवाम्भसा ||५-१०||
When you do your work as an offering to the Divine, rather than as something to feed your ego or secure a particular result, you can stay inwardly free. Like a lotus leaf that rests on water without becoming wet, you can move through responsibilities and difficult situations without being weighed down by their negativity.
कायेन मनसा बुद्ध्या केवलैरिन्द्रियैरपि | योगिनः कर्म कुर्वन्ति सङ्गं त्यक्त्वात्मशुद्धये ||५-११||
A yogi does not run away from work; they do it with body, mind, intelligence, and senses, but without clinging to rewards or personal credit. Working in this spirit gradually cleanses the heart of selfishness, ego, and restless desires.
युक्तः कर्मफलं त्यक्त्वा शान्तिमाप्नोति नैष्ठिकीम् | अयुक्तः कामकारेण फले सक्तो निबध्यते ||५-१२||
When you do your work sincerely but stop clinging to a particular result, your mind becomes steady and peaceful. But when desire makes the outcome everything—success, praise, gain, or control—you become trapped in worry and disappointment. Focus on your effort, and let go of the need to possess the result.
सर्वकर्माणि मनसा संन्यस्यास्ते सुखं वशी | नवद्वारे पुरे देही नैव कुर्वन्न कारयन् ||५-१३||
A self-controlled person learns to let go inwardly of the feeling, “I alone am doing everything.” Living in the body, often described as a city with nine gates, they remain peaceful by recognising that the body and senses carry out their natural functions while the deeper self stays unattached.
न कर्तृत्वं न कर्माणि लोकस्य सृजति प्रभुः | न कर्मफलसंयोगं स्वभावस्तु प्रवर्तते ||५-१४||
God does not force us to act, make us the doers, or personally hand out every result of our actions. Our actions and their consequences unfold through nature—our tendencies, habits, and the qualities of the world. This teaching invites us to take responsibility without carrying the ego-driven burden of believing that everything is entirely under our control.
नादत्ते कस्यचित्पापं न चैव सुकृतं विभुः | अज्ञानेनावृतं ज्ञानं तेन मुह्यन्ति जन्तवः ||५-१५||
God does not personally assign anyone’s good fortune, wrongdoing, merit, or blame. The light of wisdom already exists within us, but ignorance covers it; that is why people become confused about who they are and lose their way in life.
ज्ञानेन तु तदज्ञानं येषां नाशितमात्मनः | तेषामादित्यवज्ज्ञानं प्रकाशयति तत्परम् ||५-१६||
When self-knowledge removes the ignorance that clouds our mind, the highest truth becomes clear—just as the sun lights up everything at dawn. We begin to see beyond ego, confusion, and temporary ups and downs, recognising the divine reality within and around us.
तद्बुद्धयस्तदात्मानस्तन्निष्ठास्तत्परायणाः | गच्छन्त्यपुनरावृत्तिं ज्ञाननिर्धूतकल्मषाः ||५-१७||
When a person turns their mind, identity, and deepest aim toward the Divine, wisdom gradually clears away the inner stains of ignorance and selfishness. Rooted in this awareness, they move beyond the repeated cycle of suffering and bondage and attain lasting freedom.
विद्याविनयसम्पन्ने ब्राह्मणे गवि हस्तिनि | शुनि चैव श्वपाके च पण्डिताः समदर्शिनः ||५-१८||
A truly wise person sees the same divine reality in every being—whether someone is learned and respected, an animal, or a person society looks down upon. This does not deny visible differences; it means refusing to let status, birth, appearance, or social labels decide another being’s worth.
इहैव तैर्जितः सर्गो येषां साम्ये स्थितं मनः | निर्दोषं हि समं ब्रह्म तस्माद् ब्रह्मणि ते स्थिताः ||५-१९||
A person whose mind remains steady and equal toward all beings rises above the divisions and repeated struggles of worldly life even while living in this world. Brahman, the ultimate reality, is pure and impartial; by cultivating this same equal vision, one becomes established in that divine truth.
न प्रहृष्येत्प्रियं प्राप्य नोद्विजेत्प्राप्य चाप्रियम् | स्थिरबुद्धिरसम्मूढो ब्रह्मविद् ब्रह्मणि स्थितः ||५-२०||
A person rooted in inner wisdom does not get carried away by success, praise, or pleasant experiences, nor fall apart when things go wrong. They understand that life’s gains and losses keep changing, so they remain steady and connected to a deeper inner peace.
बाह्यस्पर्शेष्वसक्तात्मा विन्दत्यात्मनि यत्सुखम् | स ब्रह्मयोगयुक्तात्मा सुखमक्षयमश्नुते ||५-२१||
When we stop depending entirely on pleasures, praise, and comforts from the outside world, we begin to discover a deeper happiness within ourselves. A person who stays connected to the Divine finds a lasting peace that changing circumstances cannot take away.
ये हि संस्पर्शजा भोगा दुःखयोनय एव ते | आद्यन्तवन्तः कौन्तेय न तेषु रमते बुधः ||५-२२||
Pleasures that depend on external things—comfort, praise, possessions, or sensory enjoyment—do not last. Because they inevitably change or end, clinging to them can bring disappointment and pain. A wise person enjoys life without becoming dependent on these passing pleasures, and looks for a steadier inner happiness.
शक्नोतीहैव यः सोढुं प्राक्शरीरविमोक्षणात् | कामक्रोधोद्भवं वेगं स युक्तः स सुखी नरः ||५-२३||
Real freedom is not running away from life, but learning to steady yourself while living in it. A person who can pause and withstand the surge of craving or anger before it turns into words and actions is truly disciplined—and finds a deeper, more lasting happiness.
योऽन्तःसुखोऽन्तरारामस्तथान्तर्ज्योतिरेव यः | स योगी ब्रह्मनिर्वाणं ब्रह्मभूतोऽधिगच्छति ||५-२४||
Real freedom begins when your happiness does not depend entirely on praise, possessions, entertainment, or other people’s approval. The yogi finds joy, rest, and guidance within through inner awareness and connection with the Divine; becoming steady in this way, they move toward liberation and oneness with Brahman.
लभन्ते ब्रह्मनिर्वाणमृषयः क्षीणकल्मषाः | छिन्नद्वैधा यतात्मानः सर्वभूतहिते रताः ||५-२५||
True inner freedom comes to those who have cleansed their hearts of harmful tendencies, moved beyond inner conflict, and learned to govern their senses and mind. Such wise people do not live only for themselves; they find joy in working for the well-being of every being.
कामक्रोधवियुक्तानां यतीनां यतचेतसाम् | अभितो ब्रह्मनिर्वाणं वर्तते विदितात्मनाम् ||५-२६||
When desire and anger no longer rule the mind, inner freedom becomes possible. For those who discipline their thoughts and come to know their true Self, peace is not something far away—it surrounds them in every situation.
स्पर्शान्कृत्वा बहिर्बाह्यांश्चक्षुश्चैवान्तरे भ्रुवोः | प्राणापानौ समौ कृत्वा नासाभ्यन्तरचारिणौ ||५-२७||
Krishna describes a simple discipline for turning inward: step back from distracting sense-objects, steady your attention, and make the breath calm and balanced. This practice helps quiet the restless mind and prepares one for deeper inner peace and freedom.
यतेन्द्रियमनोबुद्धिर्मुनिर्मोक्षपरायणः | विगतेच्छाभयक्रोधो यः सदा मुक्त एव सः ||५-२८||
True freedom is an inner state. A person who steadily disciplines the senses, mind, and intellect, and keeps liberation as the highest aim, rises above the pull of craving, fear, and anger. Such a wise person is free even while living in the world.
भोक्तारं यज्ञतपसां सर्वलोकमहेश्वरम् | सुहृदं सर्वभूतानां ज्ञात्वा मां शान्तिमृच्छति ||५-२९||
Peace comes when we understand that God is the ultimate receiver of every sincere offering and effort, the Lord of the whole universe, and yet a true well-wisher of every living being. When we stop carrying the burden of control and dedicate our actions to Him, the mind becomes calmer and freer from fear and restlessness.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | अनाश्रितः कर्मफलं कार्यं कर्म करोति यः | स संन्यासी च योगी च न निरग्निर्न चाक्रियः ||६-१||
Krishna says that real renunciation is not running away from work or simply giving up outer rituals. A true yogi does what needs to be done, sincerely and responsibly, without becoming dependent on praise, rewards, success, or personal gain. When we act without clinging to results, our work becomes a path to inner peace and spiritual growth.
यं संन्यासमिति प्राहुर्योगं तं विद्धि पाण्डव | न ह्यसंन्यस्तसङ्कल्पो योगी भवति कश्चन ||६-२||
Krishna says that true renunciation is not merely giving up work or responsibilities; it is giving up the restless selfish plans and expectations that bind the mind. A person becomes a true yogi when they act without being driven by constant craving for personal outcomes.
आरुरुक्षोर्मुनेर्योगं कर्म कारणमुच्यते | योगारूढस्य तस्यैव शमः कारणमुच्यते ||६-३||
At the beginning of the spiritual path, sincere action is essential: doing your responsibilities well, serving others, and living with discipline helps steady and purify the mind. Once a person becomes established in inner balance, quietness and freedom from restless striving become the way to deepen meditation.
यदा हि नेन्द्रियार्थेषु न कर्मस्वनुषज्जते | सर्वसङ्कल्पसंन्यासी योगारूढस्तदोच्यते ||६-४||
A person becomes established in yoga when they no longer chase pleasures through the senses or cling to actions for personal gain. This does not mean abandoning all work; it means letting go of restless desires and self-centred plans, so the mind can become calm and steady in meditation.
उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं नात्मानमवसादयेत् | आत्मैव ह्यात्मनो बन्धुरात्मैव रिपुरात्मनः ||६-५||
Lift yourself through your own steady effort; do not let your mind pull you down. Your mind can become your greatest friend when it supports discipline, clarity, and growth, but when left uncontrolled, it can become the very force that harms you.
बन्धुरात्मात्मनस्तस्य येनात्मैवात्मना जितः | अनात्मनस्तु शत्रुत्वे वर्तेतात्मैव शत्रुवत् ||६-६||
Your mind can become your greatest friend when you learn to guide it with awareness and self-discipline. But when it is left unchecked, the same mind can pull you into harmful habits, restless thoughts, and choices that work against your own well-being.
जितात्मनः प्रशान्तस्य परमात्मा समाहितः | शीतोष्णसुखदुःखेषु तथा मानापमानयोः ||६-७||
When you learn to govern your own mind and become inwardly calm, you are no longer thrown off balance by changing conditions. Heat or cold, comfort or hardship, praise or criticism may still come, but your inner connection with the Divine remains steady and peaceful.
ज्ञानविज्ञानतृप्तात्मा कूटस्थो विजितेन्द्रियः | युक्त इत्युच्यते योगी समलोष्टाश्मकाञ्चनः ||६-८||
A true yogi finds inner fulfilment through both spiritual understanding and lived wisdom. Steady in mind and master of the senses, such a person is not carried away by the attraction of wealth or possessions; earth, stone, and gold do not disturb their inner balance.
सुहृन्मित्रार्युदासीनमध्यस्थद्वेष्यबन्धुषु | साधुष्वपि च पापेषु समबुद्धिर्विशिष्यते ||६-९||
A person growing in meditation learns not to let likes and dislikes control their judgment. Whether someone is a friend, enemy, relative, stranger, virtuous person, or wrongdoer, they try to see each person with steadiness and fairness. This does not mean approving harmful behaviour; it means responding without hatred, prejudice, or ego.
योगी युञ्जीत सततमात्मानं रहसि स्थितः | एकाकी यतचित्तात्मा निराशीरपरिग्रहः ||६-१०||
For meditation to deepen, make regular time to sit quietly by yourself, away from distractions. Train your mind and habits with discipline, and practise without being driven by endless expectations, possessions, or the urge to gain more.
शुचौ देशे प्रतिष्ठाप्य स्थिरमासनमात्मनः | नात्युच्छ्रितं नातिनीचं चैलाजिनकुशोत्तरम् ||६-११||
For meditation, choose a clean, quiet place and prepare a steady, comfortable seat that is neither too high nor too low. Krishna is teaching that inner stillness is supported by simple outer discipline: a stable, balanced setting helps the mind settle and turn inward.
तत्रैकाग्रं मनः कृत्वा यतचित्तेन्द्रियक्रियः | उपविश्यासने युञ्ज्याद्योगमात्मविशुद्धये ||६-१२||
Sit steadily and bring your attention to one point. By gently disciplining the mind and senses, practise meditation to clear inner restlessness and purify your heart. This is not about forcing the mind; it is about repeatedly returning it to a calm, focused state.
समं कायशिरोग्रीवं धारयन्नचलं स्थिरः | सम्प्रेक्ष्य नासिकाग्रं स्वं दिशश्चानवलोकयन् ||६-१३||
For meditation, sit steady with your body, head, and neck aligned and relaxed, without fidgeting or looking around. Gently keep your attention gathered in one place; this simple physical steadiness helps the restless mind become calm and focused.
प्रशान्तात्मा विगतभीर्ब्रह्मचारिव्रते स्थितः | मनः संयम्य मच्चित्तो युक्त आसीत मत्परः ||६-१४||
For meditation to deepen, cultivate inner calm and let go of fear. Live with self-discipline, bring the wandering mind under gentle control, and keep your awareness centred on God as your highest purpose. This steady, devoted focus helps the mind become balanced and peaceful.
युञ्जन्नेवं सदात्मानं योगी नियतमानसः | शान्तिं निर्वाणपरमां मत्संस्थामधिगच्छति ||६-१५||
When a person steadily practises meditation and learns to guide the mind instead of being pulled around by it, they discover a deep peace within. This is not just temporary relief from stress; it is the lasting peace that comes from resting in God and moving towards spiritual freedom.
नात्यश्नतस्तु योगोऽस्ति न चैकान्तमनश्नतः | न चातिस्वप्नशीलस्य जाग्रतो नैव चार्जुन ||६-१६||
Krishna teaches that meditation and inner balance cannot grow in extremes. Eating, sleeping, working, and resting all need a steady, sensible rhythm; neither indulgence nor harsh self-denial helps the mind become calm and focused.
युक्ताहारविहारस्य युक्तचेष्टस्य कर्मसु | युक्तस्वप्नावबोधस्य योगो भवति दुःखहा ||६-१७||
A steady mind is supported by a balanced life. Eat, rest, work, exercise, and enjoy recreation in sensible measure—not through excess or harsh deprivation. When daily habits are regulated, meditation becomes easier and begins to reduce inner suffering.
यदा विनियतं चित्तमात्मन्येवावतिष्ठते | निःस्पृहः सर्वकामेभ्यो युक्त इत्युच्यते तदा ||६-१८||
A person is truly established in meditation when their disciplined mind becomes steady within the Self, rather than constantly chasing one desire after another. This is not about rejecting life, but about finding an inner fullness that is no longer dependent on external pleasures or possessions.
यथा दीपो निवातस्थो नेङ्गते सोपमा स्मृता | योगिनो यतचित्तस्य युञ्जतो योगमात्मनः ||६-१९||
A meditator who has learned to steady the mind becomes like a lamp protected from the wind: calm, bright, and unwavering. Through regular practice, the mind stops being pulled in every direction by thoughts, worries, and desires, and rests deeply in the Self and in God.
यत्रोपरमते चित्तं निरुद्धं योगसेवया | यत्र चैवात्मनात्मानं पश्यन्नात्मनि तुष्यति ||६-२०||
Through steady meditation, the restless mind gradually becomes still. In that inner quiet, a person discovers a contentment that does not depend on possessions, praise, or circumstances—it comes from connecting with the deeper Self within.
सुखमात्यन्तिकं यत्तद् बुद्धिग्राह्यमतीन्द्रियम् | वेत्ति यत्र न चैवायं स्थितश्चलति तत्त्वतः ||६-२१||
In deep meditation, a person experiences a lasting inner joy that does not depend on pleasures of the senses. It is recognised by a calm, clear intellect; once established in that truth, one is no longer easily shaken or pulled away from it.
यं लब्ध्वा चापरं लाभं मन्यते नाधिकं ततः | यस्मिन्स्थितो न दुःखेन गुरुणापि विचाल्यते ||६-२२||
When you discover the deep inner joy that comes from a steady, God-centred mind, no outer success or possession feels greater than it. Rooted in that peace, even serious hardships may bring pain, but they cannot shake you from within.
तं विद्याद् दुःखसंयोगवियोगं योगसंज्ञितम् | स निश्चयेन योक्तव्यो योगोऽनिर्विण्णचेतसा ||६-२३||
True Yoga is the path that gradually frees us from being trapped by suffering. Krishna says it must be practised steadily, with firm resolve and without losing heart when progress feels slow or the mind keeps wandering.
सङ्कल्पप्रभवान्कामांस्त्यक्त्वा सर्वानशेषतः | मनसैवेन्द्रियग्रामं विनियम्य समन्ततः ||६-२४||
For meditation to deepen, learn to let go of desires constantly created by imagined scenarios—what you might get, achieve, or enjoy. Gently bring the senses and the mind back from their scattered pursuits, instead of allowing every passing urge to take control.
शनैः शनैरुपरमेद् बुद्ध्या धृतिगृहीतया | आत्मसंस्थं मनः कृत्वा न किञ्चिदपि चिन्तयेत् ||६-२५||
Bring the mind to stillness gradually, not by force or impatience. With steady understanding and determination, keep returning your attention inward; as the mind settles in the Self, let go of the constant stream of unnecessary thoughts.
यतो यतो निश्चरति मनश्चञ्चलमस्थिरम् | ततस्ततो नियम्यैतदात्मन्येव वशं नयेत् ||६-२६||
The mind will naturally drift—towards worries, memories, desires, and distractions. Each time you notice it wandering, do not be discouraged or harsh with yourself; gently bring it back to your inner centre and to God. Meditation grows through this patient, repeated return.
प्रशान्तमनसं ह्येनं योगिनं सुखमुत्तमम् | उपैति शान्तरजसं ब्रह्मभूतमकल्मषम् ||६-२७||
The deepest happiness comes to the meditator whose mind has become calm and whose restless passions have settled. Freed from inner negativity and established in spiritual awareness, such a person experiences a joy that does not depend on changing outer circumstances.
युञ्जन्नेवं सदात्मानं योगी विगतकल्मषः | सुखेन ब्रह्मसंस्पर्शमत्यन्तं सुखमश्नुते ||६-२८||
When a person keeps returning the mind to meditation and inner discipline, the heart gradually becomes clean of harmful tendencies and restlessness. From this steady connection with the Divine comes a deep, lasting joy—not a temporary pleasure dependent on outside circumstances.
सर्वभूतस्थमात्मानं सर्वभूतानि चात्मनि | ईक्षते योगयुक्तात्मा सर्वत्र समदर्शनः ||६-२९||
A person whose mind has become steady through meditation begins to see the same divine Self present in every living being. They also recognise that all beings are connected within that one reality, so they do not look at anyone with superiority, hatred, or indifference; they develop an equal and compassionate vision everywhere.
यो मां पश्यति सर्वत्र सर्वं च मयि पश्यति | तस्याहं न प्रणश्यामि स च मे न प्रणश्यति ||६-३०||
When you learn to recognise the Divine presence in every person, creature, and part of life—and see all existence as resting in God—you no longer feel spiritually cut off from Him. This vision nurtures a steady closeness with God, even while living and acting in the world.
सर्वभूतस्थितं यो मां भजत्येकत्वमास्थितः | सर्वथा वर्तमानोऽपि स योगी मयि वर्तते ||६-३१||
A true yogi sees God present in every living being and relates to all with this sense of oneness. Whatever their outer role or way of life may be, such a person remains connected to the Divine through this loving, equal vision.
आत्मौपम्येन सर्वत्र समं पश्यति योऽर्जुन | सुखं वा यदि वा दुःखं स योगी परमो मतः ||६-३२||
The highest yogi is someone who sees every being with the same empathy they would want for themselves. They recognise that others feel joy and pain just as deeply, and so they do not become indifferent to another person’s suffering or jealous of another person’s happiness.
अर्जुन उवाच योऽयं योगस्त्वया प्रोक्तः साम्येन मधुसूदन | एतस्याहं न पश्यामि चञ्चलत्वात्स्थितिं स्थिराम् ||६-३३||
Arjuna honestly admits that the calm, balanced state Krishna describes feels difficult to maintain because the mind keeps wandering and changing. His question reflects a common struggle: knowing what inner peace looks like is easier than keeping the mind steady in everyday life.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | असंशयं महाबाहो मनो दुर्निग्रहं चलम् | अभ्यासेन तु कौन्तेय वैराग्येण च गृह्यते ||६-३५||
Krishna agrees that the mind is restless and hard to control—so struggling with thoughts does not mean you are failing. But the mind can gradually become steadier through regular practice and vairagya: learning not to cling to every desire, worry, or passing thought. Each time you gently bring your attention back, you build inner strength.
असंयतात्मना योगो दुष्प्राप इति मे मतिः | वश्यात्मना तु यतता शक्योऽवाप्तुमुपायतः ||६-३६||
Krishna says that a restless, undisciplined mind makes meditation and inner union very difficult. But this is not a hopeless situation: through steady effort, self-discipline, and the right practice, a person can gradually bring the mind under control and attain Yoga.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | पार्थ नैवेह नामुत्र विनाशस्तस्य विद्यते | न हि कल्याणकृत्कश्चिद् दुर्गतिं तात गच्छति ||६-४०||
Krishna reassures Arjuna that sincere spiritual effort is never wasted. Even if someone cannot complete their practice in this life, the good they have done and the inner progress they have made are not lost; a person who walks the path of goodness does not meet a ruined end.
प्राप्य पुण्यकृतां लोकानुषित्वा शाश्वतीः समाः | शुचीनां श्रीमतां गेहे योगभ्रष्टोऽभिजायते ||६-४१||
No sincere spiritual effort is ever wasted. A person who has begun the path of Yoga but does not complete it in this life first enjoys the results of their good deeds, and is then born into a pure and prosperous family where they receive supportive conditions to continue their inner journey.
अथवा योगिनामेव कुले भवति धीमताम् | एतद्धि दुर्लभतरं लोके जन्म यदीदृशम् ||६-४२||
Krishna says that a sincere seeker who does not complete the path of meditation in one life may be born into a family of wise spiritual practitioners. Such a birth offers a rare and precious environment, where spiritual understanding, discipline, and guidance can help the seeker continue the journey already begun.
तत्र तं बुद्धिसंयोगं लभते पौर्वदेहिकम् | यतते च ततो भूयः संसिद्धौ कुरुनन्दन ||६-४३||
Krishna says that sincere spiritual effort is never wasted. A person who has practised before carries those inner impressions forward, regains that wisdom in a later life, and feels naturally drawn to continue the journey towards spiritual fulfilment.
पूर्वाभ्यासेन तेनैव ह्रियते ह्यवशोऽपि सः | जिज्ञासुरपि योगस्य शब्दब्रह्मातिवर्तते ||६-४४||
No sincere spiritual effort is ever wasted. The inner discipline and meditation practised in the past leave a deep impression, drawing a person back toward the path of Yoga even when they do not fully understand why. Even a genuine desire to know this path can lift one beyond mere bookish knowledge and ritualistic learning toward direct inner experience.
प्रयत्नाद्यतमानस्तु योगी संशुद्धकिल्बिषः | अनेकजन्मसंसिद्धस्ततो याति परां गतिम् ||६-४५||
Spiritual growth is not lost, even when it feels slow or incomplete. A sincere seeker who keeps making effort, gradually cleanses the mind of harmful tendencies and, over many stages of growth, ultimately reaches the highest spiritual fulfilment.
तपस्विभ्योऽधिको योगी ज्ञानिभ्योऽपि मतोऽधिकः | कर्मिभ्यश्चाधिको योगी तस्माद्योगी भवार्जुन ||६-४६||
Krishna says that the path of Yoga—training the mind and turning it toward the Divine—is greater than mere austerity, bookish learning, or action done only for results. Knowledge, discipline, and work all have value, but they become complete when they help us develop inner steadiness and a living connection with God. Therefore, Krishna encourages Arjuna to become a true yogi.
योगिनामपि सर्वेषां मद्गतेनान्तरात्मना | श्रद्धावान्भजते यो मां स मे युक्ततमो मतः ||६-४७||
Krishna says that the highest yogi is not simply someone who meditates or practises discipline, but one whose heart is deeply connected to God. With sincere faith, such a person remembers, loves, and worships Him from within; this inner devotion makes their yoga complete.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | मय्यासक्तमनाः पार्थ योगं युञ्जन्मदाश्रयः | असंशयं समग्रं मां यथा ज्ञास्यसि तच्छृणु ||७-१||
Krishna tells Arjuna that true knowledge of the Divine comes through a mind lovingly focused on Him, steady spiritual practice, and trust in His guidance. When we turn to this path wholeheartedly, our doubts gradually fall away and we begin to understand the deeper reality behind life.
ज्ञानं तेऽहं सविज्ञानमिदं वक्ष्याम्यशेषतः | यज्ज्ञात्वा नेह भूयोऽन्यज्ज्ञातव्यमवशिष्यते ||७-२||
Krishna promises to explain not just ideas about spiritual truth, but the lived realisation of it. When a person truly understands the source behind life, the world, and the self, they gain the essential wisdom that gives all other knowledge its proper place.
अपरेयमितस्त्वन्यां प्रकृतिं विद्धि मे पराम् | जीवभूतां महाबाहो ययेदं धार्यते जगत् ||७-५||
Krishna says that beyond the material world of body, mind, senses, and elements lies His higher nature: the living consciousness within every being. It is this divine life-force that sustains the world, reminding us that we are not merely physical matter but carry a deeper spiritual essence.
एतद्योनीनि भूतानि सर्वाणीत्युपधारय | अहं कृत्स्नस्य जगतः प्रभवः प्रलयस्तथा ||७-६||
Krishna says that all living beings arise from His divine and material energies, and that He is the ultimate origin of the entire universe. Everything that appears eventually returns to Him at dissolution; nothing exists independently of this supreme reality.
मत्तः परतरं नान्यत्किञ्चिदस्ति धनञ्जय | मयि सर्वमिदं प्रोतं सूत्रे मणिगणा इव ||७-७||
Krishna says that nothing exists above or beyond the Supreme Reality. Everything in the universe is connected to and sustained by Him, just as many beads are held together by a single unseen thread. Remembering this underlying divine connection can bring steadiness and meaning amid life’s many changes.
रसोऽहमप्सु कौन्तेय प्रभास्मि शशिसूर्ययोः | प्रणवः सर्ववेदेषु शब्दः खे पौरुषं नृषु ||७-८||
Krishna says that the divine is not distant or hidden only in rituals—it can be recognised in the simple wonders of daily life: the taste of water, the light of the sun and moon, the sacred sound Om, and the strength within people. By learning to notice these gifts with awareness and gratitude, we begin to see God’s presence throughout the world.
पुण्यो गन्धः पृथिव्यां च तेजश्चास्मि विभावसौ | जीवनं सर्वभूतेषु तपश्चास्मि तपस्विषु ||७-९||
Krishna says that the pure fragrance of the earth, the glow of fire, the life-force in every creature, and the discipline of sincere seekers are all expressions of His presence. The Divine is not distant from everyday life; it can be recognised in nature, vitality, and the quiet strength to live with self-control and purpose.
बीजं मां सर्वभूतानां विद्धि पार्थ सनातनम् | बुद्धिर्बुद्धिमतामस्मि तेजस्तेजस्विनामहम् ||७-१०||
Krishna says that the source of every living being is eternal divine reality. The intelligence that helps a person understand deeply, and the radiance seen in those who shine through courage, character, or excellence, are expressions of that same divine presence. This is an invitation to recognise God not only in creation, but also in the finest qualities within ourselves and others.
ये चैव सात्त्विका भावा राजसास्तामसाश्च ये | मत्त एवेति तान्विद्धि न त्वहं तेषु ते मयि ||७-१२||
Everything in the world—whether calm and clear, restless and ambitious, or dull and confused—arises from the Divine. These qualities exist within God’s creation and depend on Him, but God is not limited or trapped by any of them. Remembering this helps us rise above our changing moods and nature instead of being ruled by them.
त्रिभिर्गुणमयैर्भावैरेभिः सर्वमिदं जगत् | मोहितं नाभिजानाति मामेभ्यः परमव्ययम् ||७-१३||
The whole world is influenced by the three qualities of nature—clarity and harmony, restless desire, and inertia. Caught in these changing moods and tendencies, people fail to recognise the Divine reality that lies beyond them: Krishna, the unchanging source of all.
दैवी ह्येषा गुणमयी मम माया दुरत्यया | मामेव ये प्रपद्यन्ते मायामेतां तरन्ति ते ||७-१४||
Krishna says that Maya—the powerful pull of desires, attachments, habits, and the three qualities of nature—is not easy to overcome by willpower alone. But when a person sincerely turns to Him, trusts Him, and takes refuge in the Divine, they gain the inner strength and clarity to rise above this illusion.
तेषां ज्ञानी नित्ययुक्त एकभक्तिर्विशिष्यते | प्रियो हि ज्ञानिनोऽत्यर्थमहं स च मम प्रियः ||७-१७||
Among those who turn to God, the person who seeks true understanding and stays steadily devoted is especially close to Krishna. This is a relationship of deep love: the wise devotee treasures the Divine above all, and the Divine holds that devotee dear in return.
उदाराः सर्व एवैते ज्ञानी त्वात्मैव मे मतम् | आस्थितः स हि युक्तात्मा मामेवानुत्तमां गतिम् ||७-१८||
Krishna says that every person who turns to God with faith is worthy and noble. Yet the person of true wisdom is especially close to Him, because they do not seek God only for relief, gain, or answers—they recognise Him as the highest truth and make union with Him the central aim of life.
बहूनां जन्मनामन्ते ज्ञानवान्मां प्रपद्यते | वासुदेवः सर्वमिति स महात्मा सुदुर्लभः ||७-१९||
After a long journey of learning and inner growth, a truly wise person realises that the Divine, Vasudeva, is present in and behind everything. With this understanding, they surrender to God wholeheartedly; such broad and humble vision is rare.
यो यो यां यां तनुं भक्तः श्रद्धयार्चितुमिच्छति | तस्य तस्याचलां श्रद्धां तामेव विदधाम्यहम् ||७-२१||
Krishna says that when a person sincerely wishes to worship a particular divine form, He Himself strengthens that person’s faith in that path. This teaches that genuine faith can be a sacred starting point, while all sincere worship ultimately rests on the support of the one Supreme Reality.
स तया श्रद्धया युक्तस्तस्याराधनमीहते | लभते च ततः कामान्मयैव विहितान्हि तान् ||७-२२||
When a person worships a particular form of the divine with sincere faith, that faith can help them fulfil their desires. Yet Krishna reminds us that whatever comes to us through any form of worship is ultimately granted by the one Supreme Divine behind all forms.
अन्तवत्तु फलं तेषां तद्भवत्यल्पमेधसाम् | देवान्देवयजो यान्ति मद्भक्ता यान्ति मामपि ||७-२३||
Krishna says that when we seek temporary rewards—success, comfort, status, or even blessings from limited powers—the results are temporary too. Devotion to the Supreme leads beyond passing gains, bringing the seeker closer to the eternal source itself.
येषां त्वन्तगतं पापं जनानां पुण्यकर्मणाम् | ते द्वन्द्वमोहनिर्मुक्ता भजन्ते मां दृढव्रताः ||७-२८||
When a person steadily chooses good and selfless actions, the inner burden of wrongdoing gradually weakens. Freed from being constantly tossed between pleasure and pain, gain and loss, they can turn to God with a clear heart and unwavering devotion.
जरामरणमोक्षाय मामाश्रित्य यतन्ति ये | ते ब्रह्म तद्विदुः कृत्स्नमध्यात्मं कर्म चाखिलम् ||७-२९||
People who sincerely seek freedom from the cycle of ageing and death and take refuge in Krishna begin to understand the deepest truth of life. Through this devotion, they come to know Brahman, their own true spiritual nature, and how all actions fit into the larger reality.
साधिभूताधिदैवं मां साधियज्ञं च ये विदुः | प्रयाणकालेऽपि च मां ते विदुर्युक्तचेतसः ||७-३०||
Those who recognise Krishna as the reality within the changing world, the guiding divine forces, and every selfless offering develop a mind anchored in Him. Because their awareness has been trained through life, they can remember and know Him even at the final moment of death.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | अक्षरं ब्रह्म परमं स्वभावोऽध्यात्ममुच्यते | भूतभावोद्भवकरो विसर्गः कर्मसंज्ञितः ||८-३||
Krishna begins by clarifying some deep spiritual terms. Brahman is the eternal reality that never fades or dies; the inner self is our deepest spiritual nature; and karma is the outward action through which life and its countless forms continue to unfold. The verse invites us to look beyond temporary changes and understand the lasting truth behind them.
अधिभूतं क्षरो भावः पुरुषश्चाधिदैवतम् | अधियज्ञोऽहमेवात्र देहे देहभृतां वर ||८-४||
Krishna explains three ways to understand existence: the changing physical world is Adhibhuta, the guiding divine consciousness behind the senses and beings is Adhidaiva, and He Himself is Adhiyajna—the inner presence that receives and sustains every sincere offering made through this body. Even while living in a perishable body, we can remember the divine reality within us.
अन्तकाले च मामेव स्मरन्मुक्त्वा कलेवरम् | यः प्रयाति स मद्भावं याति नास्त्यत्र संशयः ||८-५||
Krishna says that a person who leaves the body while remembering Him reaches His divine state. This final remembrance is not something to force at the last moment; it grows naturally from a life spent turning the mind toward God with love, faith, and devotion.
अभ्यासयोगयुक्तेन चेतसा नान्यगामिना | परमं पुरुषं दिव्यं याति पार्थानुचिन्तयन् ||८-८||
When you train your mind through steady practice to return to the Divine instead of running after distractions, your inner direction becomes clear. By remembering God with focused love again and again, you gradually move closer to the Supreme Reality.
कविं पुराणमनुशासितार- मणोरणीयंसमनुस्मरेद्यः | सर्वस्य धातारमचिन्त्यरूप- मादित्यवर्णं तमसः परस्तात् ||८-९||
Krishna asks us to remember the Divine as the timeless source and guide of all life—present even in the smallest detail, yet greater than anything we can imagine. This radiant presence lies beyond the darkness of ignorance; keeping the mind connected to it steadily brings clarity and freedom, especially in life’s final moment.
प्रयाणकाले मनसाऽचलेन भक्त्या युक्तो योगबलेन चैव | भ्रुवोर्मध्ये प्राणमावेश्य सम्यक् स तं परं पुरुषमुपैति दिव्यम् ||८-१०||
A person who has trained the mind through steady yoga and loving devotion can remain inwardly focused even at the time of death. With awareness gathered and directed toward the Divine, they attain the radiant Supreme Being. The verse reminds us that such final remembrance is built through a lifetime of sincere practice, not created suddenly at the last moment.
यदक्षरं वेदविदो वदन्ति विशन्ति यद्यतयो वीतरागाः | यदिच्छन्तो ब्रह्मचर्यं चरन्ति तत्ते पदं संग्रहेण प्रवक्ष्ये ||८-११||
Krishna is about to explain the highest, imperishable reality—the goal praised by the Vedas and sought by disciplined seekers who have let go of worldly attachments. It is the truth for which people practise self-control and a focused, value-based life: lasting union with the Divine, beyond temporary pleasures and fears.
सर्वद्वाराणि संयम्य मनो हृदि निरुध्य च | मूध्न्यार्धायात्मनः प्राणमास्थितो योगधारणाम् ||८-१२||
Krishna describes a deep yogic practice of turning the senses inward, steadying the mind in the heart, and gathering one’s vital energy in focused awareness. The point is not merely physical control; it is to become so inwardly absorbed and disciplined that the mind can remain fixed on the Divine, even at life’s final moment.
ओमित्येकाक्षरं ब्रह्म व्याहरन्मामनुस्मरन् | यः प्रयाति त्यजन्देहं स याति परमां गतिम् ||८-१३||
Krishna says that one who leaves the body while chanting Om—the sacred sound that points to the Supreme Reality—and remembering Him reaches the highest spiritual destination. This is not only about the final moment of life; it teaches us to build a steady habit of remembrance, devotion, and inner focus throughout our lives.
अनन्यचेताः सततं यो मां स्मरति नित्यशः | तस्याहं सुलभः पार्थ नित्ययुक्तस्य योगिनः ||८-१४||
Krishna says that He is not distant or difficult to reach for someone whose heart stays connected to Him with steady, single-minded devotion. When remembering God becomes a regular part of life—not only in moments of crisis—the seeker gradually experiences His presence and comes closer to Him.
मामुपेत्य पुनर्जन्म दुःखालयमशाश्वतम् | नाप्नुवन्ति महात्मानः संसिद्धिं परमां गताः ||८-१५||
Those who truly realise and attain the Divine are no longer bound to the repeated cycle of birth and death in this temporary, suffering-filled world. Having reached the highest spiritual fulfilment, they find lasting freedom and peace in God.
आब्रह्मभुवनाल्लोकाः पुनरावर्तिनोऽर्जुन | मामुपेत्य तु कौन्तेय पुनर्जन्म न विद्यते ||८-१६||
Krishna says that even the highest realms of worldly existence are temporary; after their rewards are exhausted, one must return to the cycle of birth and death. But one who truly reaches and unites with the Divine is freed from this repeated coming and going, finding a lasting home beyond all temporary achievements.
सहस्रयुगपर्यन्तमहर्यद् ब्रह्मणो विदुः | रात्रिं युगसहस्रान्तां तेऽहोरात्रविदो जनाः ||८-१७||
Brahma’s day and night each stretch across a thousand great ages, showing how vast the cycles of creation and dissolution are. Those who truly understand this see that even the longest cosmic span is temporary, and that the Divine reality beyond these cycles is what deserves our deepest focus.
अव्यक्ताद् व्यक्तयः सर्वाः प्रभवन्त्यहरागमे | रात्र्यागमे प्रलीयन्ते तत्रैवाव्यक्तसंज्ञके ||८-१८||
Everything we see in the universe appears for a time and then returns to an unseen state. Just as day and night follow one another, creation repeatedly unfolds and dissolves in a vast cosmic cycle. This reminds us not to cling too tightly to temporary forms, but to seek the enduring reality beyond them.
भूतग्रामः स एवायं भूत्वा भूत्वा प्रलीयते | रात्र्यागमेऽवशः पार्थ प्रभवत्यहरागमे ||८-१९||
Krishna says that all living beings repeatedly appear and disappear with the cycles of creation, not by their own choice but under the force of nature. This reminds us that the material world is temporary, and encourages us to seek the lasting peace of connection with the Divine.
परस्तस्मात्तु भावोऽन्योऽव्यक्तोऽव्यक्तात्सनातनः | यः स सर्वेषु भूतेषु नश्यत्सु न विनश्यति ||८-२०||
Beyond the changing universe lies an eternal reality that cannot be seen with ordinary eyes and cannot be destroyed. Bodies, worlds, and all created things may pass away, but this Supreme, timeless existence remains untouched; turning our awareness towards it frees us from the fear of loss and death.
अव्यक्तोऽक्षर इत्युक्तस्तमाहुः परमां गतिम् | यं प्राप्य न निवर्तन्ते तद्धाम परमं मम ||८-२१||
Krishna speaks of the Supreme Reality as unseen, unchanging, and beyond the temporary world we experience. Reaching this highest state means freedom from the repeated cycle of birth and death; it is Krishna’s eternal abode, where the seeker finds lasting fulfilment and peace.
पुरुषः स परः पार्थ भक्त्या लभ्यस्त्वनन्यया | यस्यान्तःस्थानि भूतानि येन सर्वमिदं ततम् ||८-२२||
Krishna says that the Supreme Reality, who holds all beings within Himself and pervades the whole universe, is reached through exclusive, wholehearted devotion. When the heart stops seeking ultimate support in temporary things and turns steadily toward the Divine, it moves closer to Him.
यत्र काले त्वनावृत्तिमावृत्तिं चैव योगिनः | प्रयाता यान्ति तं कालं वक्ष्यामि भरतर्षभ ||८-२३||
Krishna now introduces the different paths a yogi may take after death—one leading to freedom from rebirth, and another leading back into the cycle of return. He is preparing Arjuna to understand that steady spiritual practice and remembrance of the Divine shape the soul’s ultimate direction.
अग्निर्जोतिरहः शुक्लः षण्मासा उत्तरायणम् | तत्र प्रयाता गच्छन्ति ब्रह्म ब्रह्मविदो जनाः ||८-२४||
Krishna describes the luminous path taken by those who have realised Brahman and leave the body in full spiritual awareness. Fire, light, day, and the sun’s northward course symbolise a movement toward clarity and freedom; the deeper message is that a life steadily directed toward the Divine leads beyond the cycle of return.
शुक्लकृष्णे गती ह्येते जगतः शाश्वते मते | एकया यात्यनावृत्तिमन्ययावर्तते पुनः ||८-२६||
Krishna says there are two enduring courses after death: one leads to freedom from the cycle of rebirth, while the other leads back into it. In the wider teaching of this chapter, the point is not to create fear about death, but to encourage a life of steady remembrance, devotion, and inner direction toward the Divine.
नैते सृती पार्थ जानन्योगी मुह्यति कश्चन | तस्मात्सर्वेषु कालेषु योगयुक्तो भवार्जुन ||८-२७||
Krishna says that a person who understands the spiritual paths described here is no longer confused about life, death, and what lies beyond. So do not wait for a final moment to turn inward—stay connected to God and grounded in spiritual practice throughout your life.
वेदेषु यज्ञेषु तपःसु चैव दानेषु यत्पुण्यफलं प्रदिष्टम् | अत्येति तत्सर्वमिदं विदित्वा योगी परं स्थानमुपैति चाद्यम् ||८-२८||
Krishna says that one who understands and lives this path of steady devotion to the Divine rises beyond the limited rewards promised by rituals, austerity, charity, or even scriptural study. Such a yogi reaches the eternal, highest abode—the source from which everything begins. The verse does not dismiss good deeds; it points to a deeper goal: loving union with God rather than temporary spiritual rewards.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | इदं तु ते गुह्यतमं प्रवक्ष्याम्यनसूयवे | ज्ञानं विज्ञानसहितं यज्ज्ञात्वा मोक्ष्यसेऽशुभात् ||९-१||
Krishna tells Arjuna that He is about to share the deepest spiritual truth with him because Arjuna listens without cynicism or fault-finding. This is not just information to know intellectually, but wisdom to experience personally; understanding it can free a person from the suffering and binding effects of worldly life.
राजविद्या राजगुह्यं पवित्रमिदमुत्तमम् | प्रत्यक्षावगमं धर्म्यं सुसुखं कर्तुमव्ययम् ||९-२||
Krishna says this spiritual wisdom is the highest knowledge and the deepest secret because it purifies the heart and can be experienced directly, not merely believed in. It follows the path of dharma, is joyful and practical to live by, and its benefit never fades away.
मया ततमिदं सर्वं जगदव्यक्तमूर्तिना | मत्स्थानि सर्वभूतानि न चाहं तेष्ववस्थितः ||९-४||
Krishna says that His unseen divine presence pervades the whole universe. Every being depends on Him and exists within His sustaining reality, yet He is not limited, contained, or bound by any individual being or object. This invites us to see the sacred presence behind all life while remembering that God is far greater than the world we can perceive.
न च मत्स्थानि भूतानि पश्य मे योगमैश्वरम् | भूतभृन्न च भूतस्थो ममात्मा भूतभावनः ||९-५||
Krishna reveals a truth beyond ordinary logic: all beings depend on Him for their existence, yet He is not limited, contained, or affected by them. He sustains and brings forth the whole creation while remaining completely free and transcendent—this is the wonder of His divine power.
यथाकाशस्थितो नित्यं वायुः सर्वत्रगो महान् | तथा सर्वाणि भूतानि मत्स्थानीत्युपधारय ||९-६||
Krishna gives a simple image: the wind moves freely in every direction, yet it exists within the vast sky. In the same way, every living being exists within the Divine presence. We may feel separate and independent, but our life, strength, and existence are continually supported by God.
सर्वभूतानि कौन्तेय प्रकृतिं यान्ति मामिकाम् | कल्पक्षये पुनस्तानि कल्पादौ विसृजाम्यहम् ||९-७||
Krishna says that all beings return to His divine nature when a cosmic cycle ends, and He brings them forth again when a new cycle begins. Life and creation are part of a vast divine rhythm, reminding us that nothing in this world is permanent and that the Supreme remains present through every beginning and ending.
न च मां तानि कर्माणि निबध्नन्ति धनञ्जय | उदासीनवदासीनमसक्तं तेषु कर्मसु ||९-९||
Krishna says that although He oversees the workings of creation, He is not trapped or bound by those actions, because He remains unattached. The teaching for us is to do our responsibilities sincerely without becoming possessive about the results; when action is free from clinging, it does not become a source of inner bondage.
मयाध्यक्षेण प्रकृतिः सूयते सचराचरम् | हेतुनानेन कौन्तेय जगद्विपरिवर्तते ||९-१०||
Krishna says that Nature brings forth all living and non-living things, but it works under His guiding presence. The constantly changing cycle of creation, growth, decay, and renewal is not random; it unfolds within a larger divine order. Remembering this can help us see beyond our limited control and place greater trust in God’s wisdom.
महात्मानस्तु मां पार्थ दैवीं प्रकृतिमाश्रिताः | भजन्त्यनन्यमनसो ज्ञात्वा भूतादिमव्ययम् ||९-१३||
Krishna says that noble souls take refuge in their higher, divine nature and turn to Him with undivided love. They understand that the Divine is the eternal source behind every living being, so their devotion is not casual—it becomes the steady centre of their thoughts and life.
सततं कीर्तयन्तो मां यतन्तश्च दृढव्रताः | नमस्यन्तश्च मां भक्त्या नित्ययुक्ता उपासते ||९-१४||
True devotees keep their connection with God alive in every part of life. With steady effort, faith, humility, and loving remembrance, they worship Him not only through prayer but through a heart that remains devoted each day.
ज्ञानयज्ञेन चाप्यन्ये यजन्तो मामुपासते | एकत्वेन पृथक्त्वेन बहुधा विश्वतोमुखम् ||९-१५||
People approach the Divine in different ways. Some meditate on the one all-pervading reality, some worship God as present in every distinct being, and some honour the many forms through which the Divine is expressed. Krishna teaches that sincere spiritual seeking can recognise the same Supreme Presence from these different perspectives.
अहं क्रतुरहं यज्ञः स्वधाहमहमौषधम् | मन्त्रोऽहमहमेवाज्यमहमग्निरहं हुतम् ||९-१६||
Krishna says that the Divine is present in every part of worship: the ritual, the prayer, the offerings, the fire, and even the one who offers. This reminds us that God is not limited to a temple or ceremony; when we act with sincerity and devotion, ordinary actions too can become an offering to the Divine.
पिताहमस्य जगतो माता धाता पितामहः | वेद्यं पवित्रमोंकार ऋक्साम यजुरेव च ||९-१७||
Krishna says that the Divine is not distant from life: He is the caring father and mother of the world, the one who sustains all beings and gives the results of their actions. He is also the deepest truth to be known, the sacred sound Om, and the wisdom expressed through the Vedas. This verse invites us to see God as the source, support, and guiding presence behind all of life.
गतिर्भर्ता प्रभुः साक्षी निवासः शरणं सुहृत् | प्रभवः प्रलयः स्थानं निधानं बीजमव्ययम् ||९-१८||
Krishna says that the Divine is present in every essential support of life: the destination we seek, the strength that sustains us, the home we belong to, and the refuge we can turn to. God is also the silent witness within all experiences—the source from which life arises, the ground on which it exists, and the imperishable seed that remains even when everything changes or ends. Remembering this can bring deep trust: we are never truly without support or a true well-wisher.
तपाम्यहमहं वर्षं निगृह्णाम्युत्सृजामि च | अमृतं चैव मृत्युश्च सदसच्चाहमर्जुन ||९-१९||
Krishna says that the forces of nature and the whole cycle of life are expressions of the Divine: the sun’s heat, the coming and withholding of rain, life’s continuity, and death’s ending. He is present in what appears and what disappears, reminding us that no phase of life is outside His larger order.
अनन्याश्चिन्तयन्तो मां ये जनाः पर्युपासते | तेषां नित्याभियुक्तानां योगक्षेमं वहाम्यहम् ||९-२२||
Krishna assures those who turn to Him with single-hearted devotion and keep their connection with Him alive: He takes care of what they truly need and protects what is already good and valuable in their lives. This is not a promise that life will have no difficulties; it is an invitation to let faith replace the constant burden of trying to control and secure everything alone.
येऽप्यन्यदेवता भक्ता यजन्ते श्रद्धयान्विताः | तेऽपि मामेव कौन्तेय यजन्त्यविधिपूर्वकम् ||९-२३||
Krishna says that people who worship different deities with sincere faith are, in essence, also worshipping the one Supreme Reality. Yet when they see those deities as separate and ultimate, rather than recognising the Supreme behind all worship, their understanding remains incomplete. The verse honours sincere faith while pointing us towards a deeper sense of spiritual unity.
यान्ति देवव्रता देवान्पितॄन्यान्ति पितृव्रताः | भूतानि यान्ति भूतेज्या यान्ति मद्याजिनोऽपि माम् ||९-२५||
Krishna says that our worship shapes the goal we move toward: those devoted to particular gods or ancestral rites reach those respective realms, while those who worship the Supreme with devotion attain Him. The verse invites us to reflect on where we are placing our deepest faith and attention, because our inner commitment guides the direction of our life and spiritual journey.
पत्रं पुष्पं फलं तोयं यो मे भक्त्या प्रयच्छति | तदहं भक्त्युपहृतमश्नामि प्रयतात्मनः ||९-२६||
Krishna says that what matters most is not the size or cost of an offering, but the love and sincerity behind it. Even a simple leaf, flower, fruit, or a little water becomes precious when it is offered with a pure and devoted heart. True devotion is open to everyone, regardless of wealth or status.
यत्करोषि यदश्नासि यज्जुहोषि ददासि यत् | यत्तपस्यसि कौन्तेय तत्कुरुष्व मदर्पणम् ||९-२७||
Krishna asks Arjuna to bring God into every part of daily life—not only prayer or worship. Whatever you do, eat, give, or practise with discipline, offer it inwardly to Him. This attitude turns ordinary actions into devotion and helps free the mind from ego, attachment, and the burden of constantly claiming, “This is all for me.”
शुभाशुभफलैरेवं मोक्ष्यसे कर्मबन्धनैः | संन्यासयोगयुक्तात्मा विमुक्तो मामुपैष्यसि ||९-२८||
When you offer your actions and their results to God instead of clinging to success or fearing failure, you are no longer trapped by the consequences of good or bad deeds. This spirit of inner renunciation frees the heart and gradually leads you closer to the Divine.
समोऽहं सर्वभूतेषु न मे द्वेष्योऽस्ति न प्रियः | ये भजन्ति तु मां भक्त्या मयि ते तेषु चाप्यहम् ||९-२९||
God’s love and presence are equally available to every being; He does not play favourites or reject anyone. Yet when a person turns towards Him with sincere devotion, they begin to experience a close, living connection with Him—God dwells in their heart, and they live in God’s presence.
क्षिप्रं भवति धर्मात्मा शश्वच्छान्तिं निगच्छति | कौन्तेय प्रतिजानीहि न मे भक्तः प्रणश्यति ||९-३१||
A person who turns sincerely towards God does not remain trapped in their past mistakes. With genuine devotion, their character begins to change quickly, they move towards lasting inner peace, and Krishna assures Arjuna that a true devotee is never abandoned or spiritually lost.
मां हि पार्थ व्यपाश्रित्य येऽपि स्युः पापयोनयः | स्त्रियो वैश्यास्तथा शूद्रास्तेऽपि यान्ति परां गतिम् ||९-३२||
Krishna says that no one is excluded from the path to the highest spiritual fulfilment. Whatever a person’s social position, past circumstances, or the labels society places on them, sincere refuge in God and loving devotion can lead them to the Supreme Goal. This verse affirms that spiritual worth is not limited by birth or status.
किं पुनर्ब्राह्मणाः पुण्या भक्ता राजर्षयस्तथा | अनित्यमसुखं लोकमिमं प्राप्य भजस्व माम् ||९-३३||
Krishna says that those who are already virtuous and devoted can certainly reach Him. But His message is for everyone: this worldly life is temporary and cannot give lasting happiness, so use this precious human life to turn towards God with loving devotion.
मन्मना भव मद्भक्तो मद्याजी मां नमस्कुरु | मामेवैष्यसि युक्त्वैवमात्मानं मत्परायणः ||९-३४||
Keep your mind connected to Krishna, love Him with devotion, offer your worship and actions to Him, and bow with humility. When God becomes the centre and highest purpose of your life, your whole being is guided toward Him and you draw closer to spiritual freedom.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | भूय एव महाबाहो शृणु मे परमं वचः | यत्तेऽहं प्रीयमाणाय वक्ष्यामि हितकाम्यया ||१०-१||
Krishna lovingly invites Arjuna to listen once more, because what He is about to share is meant for Arjuna’s true good. Spiritual wisdom is not given to overwhelm us, but to guide and uplift us when we are ready to hear it with trust.
यो मामजमनादिं च वेत्ति लोकमहेश्वरम् | असम्मूढः स मर्त्येषु सर्वपापैः प्रमुच्यते ||१०-३||
Krishna says that a person who truly understands Him as eternal, unborn, and the supreme Lord guiding all worlds is no longer trapped in delusion. This clear understanding transforms the heart, helping one move beyond the ignorance and harmful tendencies that lead to wrongdoing.
बुद्धिर्ज्ञानमसम्मोहः क्षमा सत्यं दमः शमः | सुखं दुःखं भवोऽभावो भयं चाभयमेव च ||१०-४||
Krishna says that every kind of human experience and quality—clear thinking, wisdom, forgiveness, self-control, joy, sorrow, fear, courage, birth, and death—ultimately arises from Him. This helps us see life’s changing states with humility: our strengths are gifts to use well, and our difficult emotions are part of a larger divine order that we can face with awareness and faith.
अहिंसा समता तुष्टिस्तपो दानं यशोऽयशः | भवन्ति भावा भूतानां मत्त एव पृथग्विधाः ||१०-५||
Krishna says that the many qualities and experiences found in people—such as non-violence, balance, contentment, discipline, generosity, honour and dishonour—ultimately arise from Him. This reminds us to be humble about our strengths and steady when praise or criticism comes our way, seeing both as part of a larger divine order.
महर्षयः सप्त पूर्वे चत्वारो मनवस्तथा | मद्भावा मानसा जाता येषां लोक इमाः प्रजाः ||१०-६||
Krishna explains that even the great sages, the ancient creators, and the Manus—the guides of humanity—arose from His divine will. All beings in this world ultimately trace their origin back to Him, reminding us that creation is deeply connected to the Supreme source.
एतां विभूतिं योगं च मम यो वेत्ति तत्त्वतः | सोऽविकम्पेन योगेन युज्यते नात्र संशयः ||१०-७||
When you truly recognise the Divine presence and power working throughout the world, your faith stops being easily shaken. This understanding helps you stay steadily connected to God, even when life brings change, difficulty, or uncertainty.
अहं सर्वस्य प्रभवो मत्तः सर्वं प्रवर्तते | इति मत्वा भजन्ते मां बुधा भावसमन्विताः ||१०-८||
Krishna says that everything in creation arises from Him and is sustained by His power. When a person truly understands this, devotion becomes more than a ritual—it becomes a heartfelt response of gratitude, humility, and love toward the divine source behind all life.
मच्चित्ता मद्गतप्राणा बोधयन्तः परस्परम् | कथयन्तश्च मां नित्यं तुष्यन्ति च रमन्ति च ||१०-९||
Those who keep their hearts and thoughts centred on Krishna find strength in one another. By sharing spiritual understanding and lovingly speaking about the Divine, they experience a deep contentment and joy that does not depend on outer circumstances.
तेषां सततयुक्तानां भजतां प्रीतिपूर्वकम् | ददामि बुद्धियोगं तं येन मामुपयान्ति ते ||१०-१०||
Krishna says that when people stay connected to Him with steady, loving devotion, He does not leave them to struggle alone. He gives them the inner clarity and wisdom to recognise the right path and gradually draw closer to Him.
तेषामेवानुकम्पार्थमहमज्ञानजं तमः | नाशयाम्यात्मभावस्थो ज्ञानदीपेन भास्वता ||१०-११||
When you turn to the Divine with sincere love and trust, Krishna says He does not leave you lost in doubt. From within your own heart, He compassionately lights the lamp of wisdom, clearing the ignorance and confusion that keep you from seeing the truth.
अर्जुन उवाच परं ब्रह्म परं धाम पवित्रं परमं भवान् | पुरुषं शाश्वतं दिव्यमादिदेवमजं विभुम् ||१०-१२||
Arjuna recognises Krishna as the ultimate reality: eternal, pure, divine, unborn, and present everywhere. This is not merely praise; it is Arjuna’s heartfelt acceptance that Krishna is the source and shelter of all existence, beyond the limits of time and birth.
आहुस्त्वामृषयः सर्वे देवर्षिर्नारदस्तथा | असितो देवलो व्यासः स्वयं चैव ब्रवीषि मे ||१०-१३||
Arjuna says that Krishna’s divine nature is not merely his personal belief. Great sages such as Narada, Asita, Devala, and Vyasa have all recognised and declared it, and Krishna Himself confirms it. His faith rests on both the wisdom of realised teachers and his own direct experience of Krishna.
सर्वमेतदृतं मन्ये यन्मां वदसि केशव | न हि ते भगवन्व्यक्तिं विदुर्देवा न दानवाः ||१०-१४||
Arjuna tells Krishna that he accepts His words as completely true. He recognises that Krishna’s divine reality is beyond the full understanding of even gods and powerful beings; it can be known only through Krishna’s own grace and revelation. This is Arjuna’s humble expression of faith, not blind belief.
स्वयमेवात्मनात्मानं वेत्थ त्वं पुरुषोत्तम | भूतभावन भूतेश देवदेव जगत्पते ||१०-१५||
Arjuna says that Krishna alone truly knows His own limitless divine nature. With deep reverence, he addresses Krishna as the source and Lord of all beings, the God of gods, and the ruler of the whole universe.
वक्तुमर्हस्यशेषेण दिव्या ह्यात्मविभूतयः | याभिर्विभूतिभिर्लोकानिमांस्त्वं व्याप्य तिष्ठसि ||१०-१६||
Arjuna asks Krishna to describe His divine manifestations in full—the ways His presence and power fill and sustain the whole universe. His request comes from devotion and a desire to recognise the Divine more deeply in the world around him.
कथं विद्यामहं योगिंस्त्वां सदा परिचिन्तयन् | केषु केषु च भावेषु चिन्त्योऽसि भगवन्मया ||१०-१७||
Arjuna asks Krishna how he can keep remembering and recognising the Divine in everyday life. He wants to know the forms, qualities, and situations through which he can contemplate God with a steady, loving mind.
विस्तरेणात्मनो योगं विभूतिं च जनार्दन | भूयः कथय तृप्तिर्हि शृण्वतो नास्ति मेऽमृतम् ||१०-१८||
Arjuna asks Krishna to speak further about His divine power and the many ways He is present in the world. Listening to this wisdom feels like nectar to him: the more he hears, the deeper his devotion and longing to understand become.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | हन्त ते कथयिष्यामि दिव्या ह्यात्मविभूतयः | प्राधान्यतः कुरुश्रेष्ठ नास्त्यन्तो विस्तरस्य मे ||१०-१९||
Krishna tells Arjuna that He will now describe some of His most important divine manifestations. His presence and greatness can be seen throughout creation, but they are so vast that no complete description could ever capture them all.
अहमात्मा गुडाकेश सर्वभूताशयस्थितः | अहमादिश्च मध्यं च भूतानामन्त एव च ||१०-२०||
Krishna says that the divine presence is not far away or limited to a temple—it lives within the heart of every being. He is the source from which all life begins, the power sustaining it through every stage, and the reality into which all beings ultimately return. Seeing this can bring humility, reverence, and a deeper sense of connection with everyone around us.
आदित्यानामहं विष्णुर्ज्योतिषां रविरंशुमान् | मरीचिर्मरुतामस्मि नक्षत्राणामहं शशी ||१०-२१||
Krishna points to the most radiant and life-giving presences in creation—the sun, the moon, Vishnu among the Adityas, and Marichi among the winds—and says that their excellence reflects Him. When we see greatness, beauty, light, or sustaining power in the world, we can remember the Divine source shining through it.
वेदानां सामवेदोऽस्मि देवानामस्मि वासवः | इन्द्रियाणां मनश्चास्मि भूतानामस्मि चेतना ||१०-२२||
Krishna points to the finest and most powerful expressions in creation to help us recognise His presence everywhere. The mind that coordinates our senses and the awareness that makes living beings conscious are also divine gifts; remembering this can turn ordinary experience into reverence and devotion.
रुद्राणां शङ्करश्चास्मि वित्तेशो यक्षरक्षसाम् | वसूनां पावकश्चास्मि मेरुः शिखरिणामहम् ||१०-२३||
Krishna says that wherever we see exceptional power, richness, purity, or greatness in the world, it reflects a glimpse of His divine presence. In Sankara, Kubera, fire, and Mount Meru, He points to the highest and most striking qualities within their respective groups, helping us recognise the sacred behind all true excellence.
महर्षीणां भृगुरहं गिरामस्म्येकमक्षरम् | यज्ञानां जपयज्ञोऽस्मि स्थावराणां हिमालयः ||१०-२५||
Krishna points to the finest expressions of wisdom, sound, worship, and natural grandeur as signs of His presence: the sage Bhrigu, the sacred sound Om, the quiet discipline of mantra repetition, and the Himalayas. The verse reminds us that the Divine can be approached not only through grand rituals, but also through steady inner remembrance and reverence for what is महान and uplifting.
अश्वत्थः सर्ववृक्षाणां देवर्षीणां च नारदः | गन्धर्वाणां चित्ररथः सिद्धानां कपिलो मुनिः ||१०-२६||
Krishna says that wherever there is exceptional beauty, wisdom, creativity, or spiritual attainment, it reflects a glimpse of His divine presence. The sacred Peepul tree, the sage Narada, the celestial musician Chitraratha, and the realised sage Kapila are examples of excellence that can remind us of the Divine.
आयुधानामहं वज्रं धेनूनामस्मि कामधुक् | प्रजनश्चास्मि कन्दर्पः सर्पाणामस्मि वासुकिः ||१०-२८||
Krishna says that wherever power, abundance, attraction, or striking excellence appears in its highest form, it reflects a glimpse of the Divine. The thunderbolt’s strength, Kamadhenu’s generosity, the creative force of love, and Vasuki’s greatness among serpents all point to God’s limitless presence in the world.
प्रह्लादश्चास्मि दैत्यानां कालः कलयतामहम् | मृगाणां च मृगेन्द्रोऽहं वैनतेयश्च पक्षिणाम् ||१०-३०||
Krishna says that wherever extraordinary courage, strength, order, or unwavering devotion appears, it reflects a glimpse of His divine presence. Prahlada’s faith stood firm even in a hostile family; time quietly measures and transforms everything; the lion represents majesty among animals, and Garuda represents power and freedom among birds. The verse invites us to recognise God’s greatness in the finest and most powerful expressions of creation.
पवनः पवतामस्मि रामः शस्त्रभृतामहम् | झषाणां मकरश्चास्मि स्रोतसामस्मि जाह्नवी ||१०-३१||
Krishna points to the finest and most powerful expressions in creation—the purifying wind, Rama’s righteous strength, the mighty shark, and the sacred Ganga. He invites us to recognise the Divine wherever we see purity, courage, excellence, strength, and a power that uplifts life.
सर्गाणामादिरन्तश्च मध्यं चैवाहमर्जुन | अध्यात्मविद्या विद्यानां वादः प्रवदतामहम् ||१०-३२||
Krishna says that He is present throughout every cycle of creation—from its beginning, through its unfolding, to its end. Among all forms of learning, He highlights self-knowledge as the highest, because understanding who we truly are gives direction to every other kind of knowledge. He is also the honest, truth-seeking dialogue that helps people move beyond argument and confusion.
अक्षराणामकारोऽस्मि द्वन्द्वः सामासिकस्य च | अहमेवाक्षयः कालो धाताहं विश्वतोमुखः ||१०-३३||
Krishna says that He is present in the basic patterns that hold the world together: the first sound of language, the harmony of paired words, and the endless flow of time. He is also the universal giver of the results of our actions, seeing every being and every effort from all directions. Nothing we do is lost or unseen in the larger order of life.
मृत्युः सर्वहरश्चाहमुद्भवश्च भविष्यताम् | कीर्तिः श्रीर्वाक्च नारीणां स्मृतिर्मेधा धृतिः क्षमा ||१०-३४||
Krishna says that even death, which takes everything away, is part of His power, and that He is also the source from which all future life and beginnings arise. He can be recognised in noble qualities such as honour, prosperity, graceful speech, memory, intelligence, courage, and forgiveness—qualities that bring strength and dignity to human life.
बृहत्साम तथा साम्नां गायत्री छन्दसामहम् | मासानां मार्गशीर्षोऽहमृतूनां कुसुमाकरः ||१०-३५||
Krishna says that wherever there is something especially uplifting, beautiful, or life-giving, it can remind us of the Divine. Among sacred chants He is the majestic Brihatsaman, among poetic metres the Gayatri, among months Margashirsha, and among seasons the flower-filled spring. The verse invites us to recognise God’s presence in excellence, harmony, and the renewing beauty of nature.
वृष्णीनां वासुदेवोऽस्मि पाण्डवानां धनञ्जयः | मुनीनामप्यहं व्यासः कवीनामुशना कविः ||१०-३७||
Krishna says that wherever extraordinary wisdom, courage, insight, or creative brilliance appears, it reflects a glimpse of the Divine. By naming revered figures such as Vasudeva, Arjuna, Vyasa, and Ushanas, He teaches us to recognise God’s presence in the finest qualities expressed through human beings.
दण्डो दमयतामस्मि नीतिरस्मि जिगीषताम् | मौनं चैवास्मि गुह्यानां ज्ञानं ज्ञानवतामहम् ||१०-३८||
Krishna says that wherever rightful discipline, wise strategy, meaningful silence, and true understanding are found, they reflect His presence. Strength is not merely force: it includes the ability to uphold justice, act thoughtfully toward a worthy goal, keep confidences when needed, and use knowledge with clarity and wisdom.
यच्चापि सर्वभूतानां बीजं तदहमर्जुन | न तदस्ति विना यत्स्यान्मया भूतं चराचरम् ||१०-३९||
Krishna says that He is the original seed—the source from which every living and non-living thing arises. Nothing in creation, whether it moves or stands still, exists independently of the Divine presence and power that sustains it.
नान्तोऽस्ति मम दिव्यानां विभूतीनां परन्तप | एष तूद्देशतः प्रोक्तो विभूतेर्विस्तरो मया ||१०-४०||
Krishna tells Arjuna that His divine expressions are limitless; no list can fully describe them. The examples He has shared are only a small glimpse, meant to help us recognise the sacred greatness and presence of the Divine throughout the world.
यद्यद्विभूतिमत्सत्त्वं श्रीमदूर्जितमेव वा | तत्तदेवावगच्छ त्वं मम तेजोंऽशसम्भवम् ||१०-४१||
Whenever you encounter extraordinary beauty, wisdom, success, strength, or greatness in anyone or anything, see it as a small spark of the Divine splendour. This vision helps us admire excellence without becoming jealous or arrogant, and reminds us that all true greatness ultimately has its source in God.
अथवा बहुनैतेन किं ज्ञातेन तवार्जुन | विष्टभ्याहमिदं कृत्स्नमेकांशेन स्थितो जगत् ||१०-४२||
Krishna tells Arjuna not to get lost in endless details about His greatness. Everything in this vast universe is sustained by just a small expression of the Divine; the full reality of God is far beyond what the mind can measure. This invites us to feel humility, wonder, and trust rather than trying to control everything through limited understanding.
अर्जुन उवाच मदनुग्रहाय परमं गुह्यमध्यात्मसंज्ञितम् | यत्त्वयोक्तं वचस्तेन मोहोऽयं विगतो मम ||११-१||
Arjuna tells Krishna that His teaching about the true Self has cleared away his confusion. What once felt overwhelming now makes sense to him, because Krishna’s guidance has helped him see beyond his limited fears and doubts.
भवाप्ययौ हि भूतानां श्रुतौ विस्तरशो मया | त्वत्तः कमलपत्राक्ष माहात्म्यमपि चाव्ययम् ||११-२||
Arjuna says that Krishna has already explained to him how all beings come into existence and pass away, as well as the Lord’s boundless greatness. With reverence, he acknowledges that Krishna is the eternal source behind the changing world.
एवमेतद्यथात्थ त्वमात्मानं परमेश्वर | द्रष्टुमिच्छामि ते रूपमैश्वरं पुरुषोत्तम ||११-३||
Arjuna accepts Krishna’s teaching about His supreme nature, but he longs for more than an intellectual understanding. With humility and devotion, he asks to directly behold Krishna’s divine, all-encompassing form—the reality that holds all of creation within it.
मन्यसे यदि तच्छक्यं मया द्रष्टुमिति प्रभो | योगेश्वर ततो मे त्वं दर्शयात्मानमव्ययम् ||११-४||
Arjuna humbly asks Krishna to reveal His eternal, imperishable divine form—if Krishna considers him capable of seeing it. It is a prayer of devotion and surrender: Arjuna does not demand proof, but asks to be granted the vision and understanding needed to recognise the Lord’s true nature.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | पश्य मे पार्थ रूपाणि शतशोऽथ सहस्रशः | नानाविधानि दिव्यानि नानावर्णाकृतीनि च ||११-५||
Krishna invites Arjuna to see the countless divine forms through which the Supreme reality is expressed. The world’s immense variety—its colours, shapes, beings and forces—is not separate from the Divine; it is part of a vast cosmic presence beyond ordinary understanding.
पश्यादित्यान्वसून्रुद्रानश्विनौ मरुतस्तथा | बहून्यदृष्टपूर्वाणि पश्याश्चर्याणि भारत ||११-६||
Krishna invites Arjuna to see the many divine powers and wonders contained within His Universal Form—realities beyond anything Arjuna has witnessed before. The verse opens Arjuna’s vision to the vastness of creation and reminds us that the Divine is far greater than the limited picture we usually hold in our minds.
इहैकस्थं जगत्कृत्स्नं पश्याद्य सचराचरम् | मम देहे गुडाकेश यच्चान्यद् द्रष्टुमिच्छसि ||११-७||
Krishna invites Arjuna to see that the whole universe—everything that moves and everything that is still—exists within His vast divine form. It is a reminder that life is not made of separate, isolated pieces; all creation is held together in the presence of the Supreme.
न तु मां शक्यसे द्रष्टुमनेनैव स्वचक्षुषा | दिव्यं ददामि ते चक्षुः पश्य मे योगमैश्वरम् ||११-८||
Krishna tells Arjuna that ordinary human sight cannot grasp the vastness of the Divine. He grants Arjuna a higher vision, showing that to truly perceive the deeper reality of life, we need grace and an inner way of seeing beyond our limited senses and assumptions.
सञ्जय उवाच एवमुक्त्वा ततो राजन्महायोगेश्वरो हरिः | दर्शयामास पार्थाय परमं रूपमैश्वरम् ||११-९||
Sanjaya tells King Dhritarashtra that after agreeing to Arjuna’s request, Krishna revealed His supreme Universal Form. This was not an ordinary sight, but a divine vision showing that the whole of creation exists within the Supreme Lord.
दिव्यमाल्याम्बरधरं दिव्यगन्धानुलेपनम् | सर्वाश्चर्यमयं देवमनन्तं विश्वतोमुखम् ||११-११||
Arjuna sees Krishna’s Universal Form adorned with divine beauty and glory—beyond anything ordinary eyes can imagine. It is infinite, wondrous, and present in every direction, showing that the Divine is not limited to one form, place, or boundary.
तत्रैकस्थं जगत्कृत्स्नं प्रविभक्तमनेकधा | अपश्यद्देवदेवस्य शरीरे पाण्डवस्तदा ||११-१३||
Arjuna sees that the entire universe—with all its countless beings, worlds, and forms—exists within Krishna’s vast divine form. The vision reveals that what appears separate and scattered in life is ultimately held together in the one Supreme Reality.
ततः स विस्मयाविष्टो हृष्टरोमा धनञ्जयः | प्रणम्य शिरसा देवं कृताञ्जलिरभाषत ||११-१४||
Overwhelmed by the vast divine vision before him, Arjuna feels awe so intense that his body trembles and his hair stands on end. With deep humility and reverence, he bows to Krishna and begins to speak with folded hands, recognising that he is in the presence of something far greater than himself.
अर्जुन उवाच पश्यामि देवांस्तव देव देहे सर्वांस्तथा भूतविशेषसङ्घान् | ब्रह्माणमीशं कमलासनस्थ- मृषींश्च सर्वानुरगांश्च दिव्यान् ||११-१५||
Arjuna beholds Krishna’s universal form and sees that all of creation exists within it—gods, different beings, Brahma, sages, and divine celestial beings. The vision shows him that Krishna is not limited to one form; He contains and sustains the whole cosmos.
अनेकबाहूदरवक्त्रनेत्रं पश्यामि त्वां सर्वतोऽनन्तरूपम् | नान्तं न मध्यं न पुनस्तवादिं पश्यामि विश्वेश्वर विश्वरूप ||११-१६||
Arjuna sees Krishna’s Universal Form as limitless and present everywhere—filled with countless faces, eyes, arms, and forms of life. He cannot find its beginning, middle, or end, because the Divine is greater than anything the mind can measure or fully understand.
त्वमक्षरं परमं वेदितव्यं त्वमस्य विश्वस्य परं निधानम् | त्वमव्ययः शाश्वतधर्मगोप्ता सनातनस्त्वं पुरुषो मतो मे ||११-१८||
Overwhelmed by Krishna’s universal form, Arjuna recognises Him as the eternal reality behind everything that exists. He sees Krishna as the unchanging foundation of the universe, the guardian of dharma, and the timeless Supreme Person whom every seeker ultimately needs to know.
अमी हि त्वां सुरसङ्घा विशन्ति केचिद्भीताः प्राञ्जलयो गृणन्ति | स्वस्तीत्युक्त्वा महर्षिसिद्धसङ्घाः स्तुवन्ति त्वां स्तुतिभिः पुष्कलाभिः ||११-२१||
Seeing Krishna’s vast Universal Form, even the gods are overwhelmed: some enter into Him, while others fold their hands and praise Him with awe and fear. Great sages and perfected beings pray for the welfare of all, recognising the Supreme presence that holds the whole universe.
रुद्रादित्या वसवो ये च साध्या विश्वेऽश्विनौ मरुतश्चोष्मपाश्च | गन्धर्वयक्षासुरसिद्धसङ्घा वीक्षन्ते त्वां विस्मिताश्चैव सर्वे ||११-२२||
Arjuna sees that every kind of celestial being—gods, ancestors, sages, and other powerful beings—is gazing at Krishna’s Universal Form in awe. Even those believed to possess great power and wisdom are astonished before the limitless reality of the Divine.
अर्जुन उवाच स्थाने हृषीकेश तव प्रकीर्त्या जगत्प्रहृष्यत्यनुरज्यते च | रक्षांसि भीतानि दिशो द्रवन्ति सर्वे नमस्यन्ति च सिद्धसङ्घाः ||११-३६||
Arjuna says that Krishna’s glory naturally fills the good-hearted with joy and loving devotion. At the same time, destructive forces are shaken and flee in fear, while enlightened beings bow before Him with reverence. Seeing the Universal Form, Arjuna understands why all of creation responds to the Divine with awe.
कस्माच्च ते न नमेरन्महात्मन् गरीयसे ब्रह्मणोऽप्यादिकर्त्रे | अनन्त देवेश जगन्निवास त्वमक्षरं सदसत्तत्परं यत् ||११-३७||
Arjuna says that every being naturally bows before Krishna, because He is the infinite source behind even Brahma, the creator. He is the foundation of the whole universe—present in all that exists, beyond what we can see or name, and eternal beyond change and destruction.
त्वमादिदेवः पुरुषः पुराणस्- त्वमस्य विश्वस्य परं निधानम् | वेत्तासि वेद्यं च परं च धाम त्वया ततं विश्वमनन्तरूप ||११-३८||
Overwhelmed by Krishna’s cosmic form, Arjuna recognises Him as the eternal source and shelter of all creation. He sees that the Divine is not separate from the universe: God is the one who knows all, the ultimate truth to be known, and the presence that fills everything in countless forms.
वायुर्यमोऽग्निर्वरुणः शशाङ्कः प्रजापतिस्त्वं प्रपितामहश्च | नमो नमस्तेऽस्तु सहस्रकृत्वः पुनश्च भूयोऽपि नमो नमस्ते ||११-३९||
Overwhelmed by Krishna’s universal form, Arjuna recognises Him as the power behind every force of nature and every divine being—life, death, fire, water, the moon, and creation itself. Realising this vastness, he bows again and again with deep humility, devotion, and awe.
नमः पुरस्तादथ पृष्ठतस्ते नमोऽस्तु ते सर्वत एव सर्व | अनन्तवीर्यामितविक्रमस्त्वं सर्वं समाप्नोषि ततोऽसि सर्वः ||११-४०||
Overwhelmed by Krishna’s universal form, Arjuna bows in every direction. He recognises that the Divine has limitless strength, reaches through all of creation, and is not separate from anything that exists. This vision fills him with deep humility and devotion.
पितासि लोकस्य चराचरस्य त्वमस्य पूज्यश्च गुरुर्गरीयान् | न त्वत्समोऽस्त्यभ्यधिकः कुतोऽन्यो लोकत्रयेऽप्यप्रतिमप्रभाव ||११-४३||
Overwhelmed by Krishna’s universal form, Arjuna recognises Him as the source and guardian of all creation—everything that moves and everything that does not. He bows to Krishna as the highest teacher and declares that no one in any world can equal or surpass the Divine’s incomparable power.
तस्मात्प्रणम्य प्रणिधाय कायं प्रसादये त्वामहमीशमीड्यम् | पितेव पुत्रस्य सखेव सख्युः प्रियः प्रियायार्हसि देव सोढुम् ||११-४४||
Overwhelmed by Krishna’s vast divine form, Arjuna bows completely and asks forgiveness for any disrespect he may have shown in the familiarity of friendship. He trusts that God’s love is compassionate—like a father toward a child, a true friend toward a friend, or a beloved toward the one they love.
किरीटिनं गदिनं चक्रहस्तं इच्छामि त्वां द्रष्टुमहं तथैव | तेनैव रूपेण चतुर्भुजेन सहस्रबाहो भव विश्वमूर्ते ||११-४६||
Overwhelmed by the vast and awe-inspiring Cosmic Form, Arjuna asks Krishna to return to the familiar four-armed form, wearing a crown and holding the mace and discus. His request shows that while the divine can be infinite and beyond understanding, the heart often finds comfort in a loving, personal form of God.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | मया प्रसन्नेन तवार्जुनेदं रूपं परं दर्शितमात्मयोगात् | तेजोमयं विश्वमनन्तमाद्यं यन्मे त्वदन्येन न दृष्टपूर्वम् ||११-४७||
Krishna tells Arjuna that this radiant, infinite Universal Form was revealed to him through Krishna’s grace and divine power. It is a rare vision of the source and wholeness of all existence—something beyond ordinary human sight or achievement.
मा ते व्यथा मा च विमूढभावो दृष्ट्वा रूपं घोरमीदृङ्ममेदम् | व्यपेतभीः प्रीतमनाः पुनस्त्वं तदेव मे रूपमिदं प्रपश्य ||११-४९||
Krishna reassures Arjuna after revealing His overwhelming cosmic form: do not be frightened or confused by what you have seen. Let go of fear, steady your heart, and look again at His familiar, loving form. Even when life reveals something vast or unsettling, divine support can bring the mind back to peace.
सञ्जय उवाच इत्यर्जुनं वासुदेवस्तथोक्त्वा स्वकं रूपं दर्शयामास भूयः | आश्वासयामास च भीतमेनं भूत्वा पुनः सौम्यवपुर्महात्मा ||११-५०||
After revealing the overwhelming Cosmic Form, Krishna returns to His familiar, gentle form and comforts the frightened Arjuna. The verse shows that the Divine is not only vast and powerful beyond imagination, but also compassionate—meeting a fearful heart with reassurance and calm.
अर्जुन उवाच दृष्ट्वेदं मानुषं रूपं तव सौम्यं जनार्दन | इदानीमस्मि संवृत्तः सचेताः प्रकृतिं गतः ||११-५१||
After witnessing Krishna’s overwhelming Cosmic Form, Arjuna feels frightened and shaken. When Krishna returns to His gentle, familiar human form, Arjuna’s mind becomes calm again. He feels grounded, conscious, and able to be himself once more.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | सुदुर्दर्शमिदं रूपं दृष्टवानसि यन्मम | देवा अप्यस्य रूपस्य नित्यं दर्शनकाङ्क्षिणः ||११-५२||
Krishna tells Arjuna that the divine Universal Form he has witnessed is extraordinarily rare and difficult to behold. Even the gods long to see this vision, reminding Arjuna that this experience is not the result of ordinary sight, but of divine grace and deep devotion.
नाहं वेदैर्न तपसा न दानेन न चेज्यया | शक्य एवंविधो द्रष्टुं दृष्टवानसि मां यथा ||११-५३||
Krishna tells Arjuna that this overwhelming vision of His universal form cannot be gained merely through studying sacred texts, severe self-denial, charity, or rituals. Such practices have value, but the deepest experience of the Divine comes through His grace and a heart ready to receive it.
भक्त्या त्वनन्यया शक्य अहमेवंविधोऽर्जुन | ज्ञातुं द्रष्टुं च तत्त्वेन प्रवेष्टुं च परन्तप ||११-५४||
Krishna tells Arjuna that His deepest reality cannot be understood merely through intellect, rituals, or outward observation. It is revealed through exclusive, wholehearted devotion—a love and trust that keeps returning to the Divine. Through such devotion, one can truly know Him, experience His presence, and become united with Him.
मत्कर्मकृन्मत्परमो मद्भक्तः सङ्गवर्जितः | निर्वैरः सर्वभूतेषु यः स मामेति पाण्डव ||११-५५||
Krishna says that the way to reach Him is to make your work an offering, keep Him as your highest goal, and live with sincere devotion. Let go of selfish clinging and hostility towards anyone; when your heart holds goodwill for all beings, your actions become a path to the Divine.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | मय्यावेश्य मनो ये मां नित्ययुक्ता उपासते | श्रद्धया परयोपेताः ते मे युक्ततमा मताः ||१२-२||
Krishna says that the highest kind of spiritual connection is to keep the mind lovingly focused on God, remain steady in that relationship, and worship with deep trust. It is not only about rituals or knowledge; sincere faith and a heart that returns to the Divine again and again are what make devotion powerful.
ये त्वक्षरमनिर्देश्यमव्यक्तं पर्युपासते | सर्वत्रगमचिन्त्यञ्च कूटस्थमचलन्ध्रुवम् ||१२-३||
Some seekers worship the eternal, formless Reality—the Divine that cannot be pointed to, fully described, or grasped by the mind. It is present everywhere, unchanging and steady, beyond all that comes and goes in the world.
सन्नियम्येन्द्रियग्रामं सर्वत्र समबुद्धयः | ते प्राप्नुवन्ति मामेव सर्वभूतहिते रताः ||१२-४||
Those who discipline their senses, stay balanced in every situation, and sincerely work for the good of all beings also reach the Divine. Spiritual growth is not only about personal meditation; it is reflected in self-control, an even mind, and compassion in the way we live with others.
ये तु सर्वाणि कर्माणि मयि संन्यस्य मत्परः | अनन्येनैव योगेन मां ध्यायन्त उपासते ||१२-६||
Krishna speaks of those who make God the centre of their lives. They continue to act in the world, but offer their work and its results to Him, keeping their mind lovingly focused on Him rather than being pulled in many directions. This single-hearted devotion turns everyday action into worship.
तेषामहं समुद्धर्ता मृत्युसंसारसागरात् | भवामि नचिरात्पार्थ मय्यावेशितचेतसाम् ||१२-७||
Krishna assures Arjuna that those who place their heart and mind in Him are not left to struggle alone in the endless cycle of fear, suffering, and death. He personally guides them across this vast ocean of worldly existence and brings them to freedom without delay.
मय्येव मन आधत्स्व मयि बुद्धिं निवेशय | निवसिष्यसि मय्येव अत ऊर्ध्वं न संशयः ||१२-८||
Krishna asks you to turn both your heart and your understanding toward Him. When love, attention, and clear thinking are anchored in the Divine, you begin to live with a deeper sense of connection and inner belonging, free from doubt about your spiritual direction.
अथ चित्तं समाधातुं न शक्नोषि मयि स्थिरम् | अभ्यासयोगेन ततो मामिच्छाप्तुं धनञ्जय ||१२-९||
If keeping your mind steadily focused on God feels difficult, do not be discouraged. Keep returning to Him through regular practice—prayer, remembrance, meditation, or sincere service—and gradually your mind will grow closer and more settled in Him.
अथैतदप्यशक्तोऽसि कर्तुं मद्योगमाश्रितः | सर्वकर्मफलत्यागं ततः कुरु यतात्मवान् ||१२-११||
If you cannot yet practise steady devotion or keep your mind constantly focused on God, begin with something more practical: do your work sincerely, but let go of your attachment to the results. Make the effort with self-control, without allowing success, failure, praise, or reward to control your inner peace.
श्रेयो हि ज्ञानमभ्यासाज्ज्ञानाद्ध्यानं विशिष्यते | ध्यानात्कर्मफलत्यागस्त्यागाच्छान्तिरनन्तरम् ||१२-१२||
Krishna offers a practical path toward inner peace: disciplined practice can lead to understanding, understanding can deepen into meditation, and meditation can mature into letting go of attachment to results. When you do your best without being consumed by success, failure, praise, or reward, peace begins to arise naturally.
अद्वेष्टा सर्वभूतानां मैत्रः करुण एव च | निर्ममो निरहङ्कारः समदुःखसुखः क्षमी ||१२-१३||
A person dear to God does not carry hatred toward anyone. They meet people with friendship and compassion, do not cling to possessions or inflate their own importance, and remain steady through both comfort and difficulty. Their inner strength also shows in their willingness to forgive.
सन्तुष्टः सततं योगी यतात्मा दृढनिश्चयः | मय्यर्पितमनोबुद्धिर्यो मद्भक्तः स मे प्रियः ||१२-१४||
Krishna says that a beloved devotee is not dependent on changing circumstances for happiness. Such a person stays inwardly content, disciplined, and steady in their purpose, offering both their feelings and their understanding to God. Devotion here is not just emotion—it is a firm decision to live with trust, self-control, and remembrance of the Divine.
यस्मान्नोद्विजते लोको लोकान्नोद्विजते च यः | हर्षामर्षभयोद्वेगैर्मुक्तो यः स च मे प्रियः ||१२-१५||
Krishna says that a beloved devotee neither disturbs others nor is easily shaken by the behaviour and opinions of the world. Free from emotional extremes such as excitement, resentment, fear, and inner agitation, such a person carries a calm, steady presence and becomes a source of peace for those around them.
अनपेक्षः शुचिर्दक्ष उदासीनो गतव्यथः | सर्वारम्भपरित्यागी यो मद्भक्तः स मे प्रियः ||१२-१६||
Krishna says that a devotee dear to Him is not driven by constant expectations or personal gain. Such a person stays inwardly clean, capable in action, and steady through discomfort, without getting entangled in unnecessary projects born from ego or craving. Their devotion makes them calm, responsible, and free from restless chasing.
यो न हृष्यति न द्वेष्टि न शोचति न काङ्क्षति | शुभाशुभपरित्यागी भक्तिमान्यः स मे प्रियः ||१२-१७||
A devotee dear to Krishna is not pulled around by every success or disappointment. Such a person does not cling to pleasant outcomes, hate difficult ones, grieve endlessly over what has passed, or crave what is missing. Letting go of the ego’s labels of “good for me” and “bad for me,” they remain steady and loving in devotion to God.
समः शत्रौ च मित्रे च तथा मानापमानयोः | शीतोष्णसुखदुःखेषु समः सङ्गविवर्जितः ||१२-१८||
A beloved devotee remains steady whether facing an enemy or a friend, praise or insult, comfort or hardship. They do not let changing situations pull them into attachment, resentment, or emotional extremes; their inner balance rests in devotion to God.
तुल्यनिन्दास्तुतिर्मौनी सन्तुष्टो येन केनचित् | अनिकेतः स्थिरमतिर्भक्तिमान्मे प्रियो नरः ||१२-१९||
The devotee dear to Krishna is not carried away by praise or wounded by criticism. They speak thoughtfully, remain content with what comes, do not cling to any place or possession as their ultimate security, and keep their mind steady in devotion. This is not withdrawal from life; it is inner freedom from the need for approval and constant comfort.
ये तु धर्म्यामृतमिदं यथोक्तं पर्युपासते | श्रद्दधाना मत्परमा भक्तास्तेऽतीव मे प्रियाः ||१२-२०||
Krishna says that those who live by this life-giving path of dharma, with sincere faith and God as their highest aim, are especially dear to Him. Devotion is not only about rituals or words; it is about steadily shaping one’s conduct, choices, and heart around the values He has taught.
अर्जुन उवाच प्रकृतिं पुरुषं चैव क्षेत्रं क्षेत्रज्ञमेव च | एतद्वेदितुमिच्छामि ज्ञानं ज्ञेयं च केशव ||१३-१||
Arjuna begins by asking the deeper questions behind human life: What is this body and material world, who is the conscious self living within it, what is true knowledge, and what is ultimately worth knowing? His question invites us to look beyond our changing circumstances and understand who we really are.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | इदं शरीरं कौन्तेय क्षेत्रमित्यभिधीयते | एतद्यो वेत्ति तं प्राहुः क्षेत्रज्ञ इति तद्विदः ||१३-२||
Krishna begins by separating who you are from what you possess. Your body, along with its sensations, thoughts, and changing experiences, is the “field” where life unfolds. The one who can observe and understand this field—the aware self within—is called the knower of the field. This perspective helps us remember that we are not limited to every passing bodily state or mental emotion.
क्षेत्रज्ञं चापि मां विद्धि सर्वक्षेत्रेषु भारत | क्षेत्रक्षेत्रज्ञयोर्ज्ञानं यत्तज्ज्ञानं मतं मम ||१३-३||
Krishna says that the body and mind are like a field where experiences, thoughts, and actions arise, while the soul is the one aware of them. Yet within every being, the Supreme Consciousness—God—is also present as the ultimate knower. True wisdom is to understand both: the changing body-mind and the unchanging divine presence within all.
तत्क्षेत्रं यच्च यादृक्च यद्विकारि यतश्च यत् | स च यो यत्प्रभावश्च तत्समासेन मे शृणु ||१३-४||
Krishna now says he will briefly explain the whole picture: what this body-and-mind ‘field’ is, how it changes, where it comes from, and who the conscious knower within it is. He will also reveal the nature and power of the Supreme Reality, helping us see the difference between our changing outer life and the enduring Self.
ऋषिभिर्बहुधा गीतं छन्दोभिर्विविधैः पृथक् | ब्रह्मसूत्रपदैश्चैव हेतुमद्भिर्विनिश्चितैः ||१३-५||
The truth about the body, the soul, and the Supreme has not been taught in only one way. Sages have explained it through many sacred teachings and reasoned conclusions, giving us a reliable path to understand these deeper questions rather than relying on guesswork.
इच्छा द्वेषः सुखं दुःखं संघातश्चेतना धृतिः | एतत्क्षेत्रं समासेन सविकारमुदाहृतम् ||१३-७||
Krishna says that desire and dislike, pleasure and pain, the body, awareness, and inner resolve are all parts of the changing ‘field’ of our experience. They arise within us and affect us, but they are not the deepest, unchanging Self that observes them.
अमानित्वमदम्भित्वमहिंसा क्षान्तिरार्जवम् | आचार्योपासनं शौचं स्थैर्यमात्मविनिग्रहः ||१३-८||
Krishna says that real wisdom begins with character: being humble rather than showy, causing no harm, forgiving others, and staying honest and straightforward. It grows through respect for a true teacher, inner and outer cleanliness, steadiness in practice, and the ability to govern one’s own impulses.
इन्द्रियार्थेषु वैराग्यमनहंकार एव च | जन्ममृत्युजराव्याधिदुःखदोषानुदर्शनम् ||१३-९||
True wisdom includes stepping back from constant craving for sensory pleasures and letting go of the ego that says, “I am the centre of everything.” It also means honestly recognising that birth, ageing, illness, death, and pain are unavoidable parts of bodily life. This reflection is not meant to make us hopeless; it helps us seek a deeper, lasting truth beyond temporary comforts.
असक्तिरनभिष्वङ्गः पुत्रदारगृहादिषु | नित्यं च समचित्तत्वमिष्टानिष्टोपपत्तिषु ||१३-१०||
True wisdom includes loving your family and caring for your home without making them the whole basis of your identity or happiness. Stay steady when life brings what you want and when it brings what you do not, remembering that both success and disappointment are temporary.
मयि चानन्ययोगेन भक्तिरव्यभिचारिणी | विविक्तदेशसेवित्वमरतिर्जनसंसदि ||१३-११||
True spiritual understanding grows through steady, wholehearted devotion to God—not a faith that changes with convenience or circumstance. It is also supported by making time for quiet reflection and not becoming overly absorbed in crowds, noise, or constant social approval.
अध्यात्मज्ञाननित्यत्वं तत्त्वज्ञानार्थदर्शनम् | एतज्ज्ञानमिति प्रोक्तमज्ञानं यदतोऽन्यथा ||१३-१२||
True knowledge is not just collecting information; it is a steady commitment to understanding your inner self and seeing the deeper purpose of spiritual wisdom. Anything that turns us away from this search for truth—towards mere surface-level living—is called ignorance.
ज्ञेयं यत्तत्प्रवक्ष्यामि यज्ज्ञात्वामृतमश्नुते | अनादिमत्परं ब्रह्म न सत्तन्नासदुच्यते ||१३-१३||
Krishna now speaks of the highest truth worth knowing: the beginningless Supreme Reality, Brahman. Realising this truth frees us from the fear of mortality and brings the experience of the eternal. It cannot be fully described as simply existing or not existing, because it is beyond all the limited categories through which our mind understands the world.
सर्वतः पाणिपादं तत्सर्वतोऽक्षिशिरोमुखम् | सर्वतः श्रुतिमल्लोके सर्वमावृत्य तिष्ठति ||१३-१४||
The Supreme Being is present everywhere and works through every hand, foot, eye, mouth, and ear in the world. This does not mean God has a physical body spread across space; it means nothing exists outside the Divine presence, which sees, hears, and sustains all.
सर्वेन्द्रियगुणाभासं सर्वेन्द्रियविवर्जितम् | असक्तं सर्वभृच्चैव निर्गुणं गुणभोक्तृ च ||१३-१५||
The Supreme Reality works through every power of seeing, hearing, thinking, and acting in all beings, yet it is not limited by any physical senses or body. It supports the whole world without being attached to it, remains beyond the changing qualities of nature, and still knows every experience that those qualities create.
बहिरन्तश्च भूतानामचरं चरमेव च | सूक्ष्मत्वात्तदविज्ञेयं दूरस्थं चान्तिके च तत् ||१३-१६||
The Supreme Reality is present both within every being and throughout the world outside us. It is the stillness behind what does not move and the life within all that moves. Because it is so subtle, the mind cannot easily grasp it; yet it is closer than our own breath and also beyond everything we can imagine.
अविभक्तं च भूतेषु विभक्तमिव च स्थितम् | भूतभर्तृ च तज्ज्ञेयं ग्रसिष्णु प्रभविष्णु च ||१३-१७||
The Supreme Reality is one and whole, yet it appears to be present separately in every living being. It sustains all life, and through the cycles of nature it is seen as that which absorbs beings at dissolution and brings them forth again in creation.
ज्योतिषामपि तज्ज्योतिस्तमसः परमुच्यते | ज्ञानं ज्ञेयं ज्ञानगम्यं हृदि सर्वस्य विष्ठितम् ||१३-१८||
The Supreme Reality is the source of every kind of light, yet it is beyond all physical darkness and illumination. It is the wisdom we seek, the truth to be known, and the destination of true understanding—and it quietly lives in the heart of every being.
इति क्षेत्रं तथा ज्ञानं ज्ञेयं चोक्तं समासतः | मद्भक्त एतद्विज्ञाय मद्भावायोपपद्यते ||१३-१९||
Krishna concludes that he has briefly explained the body and mind as the “field,” the true understanding needed to see clearly, and the Supreme Reality to be known. A devotee who truly grasps this—who sees that they are more than the changing body and connects with the Divine—becomes fit to attain God’s own nature and closeness.
प्रकृतिं पुरुषं चैव विद्ध्यनादी उभावपि | विकारांश्च गुणांश्चैव विद्धि प्रकृतिसम्भवान् ||१३-२०||
Krishna says that both Nature—the material world—and the conscious self are beginningless. The body, mind, emotions, and the three qualities that shape our behaviour keep changing, but these changes arise from Nature; they are not the deepest truth of who we are.
कार्यकारणकर्तृत्वे हेतुः प्रकृतिरुच्यते | पुरुषः सुखदुःखानां भोक्तृत्वे हेतुरुच्यते ||१३-२१||
Nature, through the body, mind, senses, and their tendencies, sets actions and their results in motion. The soul is the conscious experiencer who feels happiness and sorrow through this human life. Seeing this difference helps us understand that we are more than the changing reactions of our body and mind.
उपद्रष्टानुमन्ता च भर्ता भोक्ता महेश्वरः | परमात्मेति चाप्युक्तो देहेऽस्मिन्पुरुषः परः ||१३-२३||
Within every body, the Supreme Self is present as a silent witness to our thoughts and actions, the one who permits, sustains, and ultimately governs all life. Though we experience the results of our choices, God remains the highest presence within us—supporting us and inviting us to recognise our deeper spiritual nature.
य एवं वेत्ति पुरुषं प्रकृतिं च गुणैः सह | सर्वथा वर्तमानोऽपि न स भूयोऽभिजायते ||१३-२४||
When you truly understand yourself as the conscious soul, distinct from the body and its changing qualities, you stop being trapped by every situation life brings. This wisdom frees you from the cycle of repeated birth and death, even while you continue to live and act in the world.
ध्यानेनात्मनि पश्यन्ति केचिदात्मानमात्मना | अन्ये साङ्ख्येन योगेन कर्मयोगेन चापरे ||१३-२५||
People come to self-realisation through different sincere paths. Some discover the Self through quiet meditation, some through deep enquiry and understanding, and others by doing their duties selflessly; each path can lead inward when practised with discipline and sincerity.
अन्ये त्वेवमजानन्तः श्रुत्वान्येभ्य उपासते | तेऽपि चातितरन्त्येव मृत्युं श्रुतिपरायणाः ||१३-२६||
Not everyone reaches spiritual understanding through deep study or meditation. Some simply listen with faith to the guidance of wise people and sincerely live by it. Krishna says that such wholehearted trust and devotion can also lead a person beyond the fear and bondage of death.
यावत्सञ्जायते किञ्चित्सत्त्वं स्थावरजङ्गमम् | क्षेत्रक्षेत्रज्ञसंयोगात्तद्विद्धि भरतर्षभ ||१३-२७||
Every living being—whether a plant standing still or an animal moving about—comes into existence through the meeting of the physical body and the conscious soul that knows and experiences it. This understanding helps us see that life is more than the body alone; the same spiritual presence exists within all forms of life.
समं सर्वेषु भूतेषु तिष्ठन्तं परमेश्वरम् | विनश्यत्स्वविनश्यन्तं यः पश्यति स पश्यति ||१३-२८||
True understanding is to recognise the same Supreme Presence in every living being. Bodies and outer forms perish, but the Divine reality within them does not; seeing this helps us look beyond differences and treat all life with deeper respect.
समं पश्यन्हि सर्वत्र समवस्थितमीश्वरम् | न हिनस्त्यात्मनात्मानं ततो याति परां गतिम् ||१३-२९||
When you recognise that the same Divine presence lives equally in every being, you stop harming yourself or others through hatred, cruelty, and separation. This vision leads beyond selfishness and toward the highest spiritual freedom.
प्रकृत्यैव च कर्माणि क्रियमाणानि सर्वशः | यः पश्यति तथात्मानमकर्तारं स पश्यति ||१३-३०||
A person truly understands when they see that the body, mind, senses, and the forces of nature carry out all actions, while the deepest Self remains the silent witness. This insight does not mean avoiding responsibility; it frees us from the ego’s claim of “I alone am the doer” and brings greater humility and inner peace.
यदा भूतपृथग्भावमेकस्थमनुपश्यति | तत एव च विस्तारं ब्रह्म सम्पद्यते तदा ||१३-३१||
When you truly see that all the many forms of life arise from one Divine reality and remain connected to it, separateness begins to fall away. This vision replaces division, superiority, and isolation with a deep awareness of unity, leading one toward the realization of Brahman.
अनादित्वान्निर्गुणत्वात्परमात्मायमव्ययः | शरीरस्थोऽपि कौन्तेय न करोति न लिप्यते ||१३-३२||
Your deepest Self, the Supreme Self, has no beginning or end and is untouched by the changing qualities of nature. Although it is present within the body, it does not become the doer of the body’s actions or carry the stain of its experiences; it remains pure and unchanged.
यथा सर्वगतं सौक्ष्म्यादाकाशं नोपलिप्यते | सर्वत्रावस्थितो देहे तथात्मा नोपलिप्यते ||१३-३३||
Just as space remains untouched by the smoke, dust, and activity within it, the true Self remains pure and unaffected while living in the body. The body and mind go through change, pain, and action, but your deepest spiritual nature is not stained by them.
यथा प्रकाशयत्येकः कृत्स्नं लोकमिमं रविः | क्षेत्रं क्षेत्री तथा कृत्स्नं प्रकाशयति भारत ||१३-३४||
Just as one sun lights up the entire world, the conscious Self within us lights up the whole field of our body, mind, senses, and experiences. This verse reminds us that beneath all changing thoughts and circumstances is the steady awareness that makes them known.
क्षेत्रक्षेत्रज्ञयोरेवमन्तरं ज्ञानचक्षुषा | भूतप्रकृतिमोक्षं च ये विदुर्यान्ति ते परम् ||१३-३५||
Those who learn to see clearly understand that the body and mind are changing fields of experience, while the soul is the conscious witness within them. Realising this difference—and how the soul can rise beyond nature’s binding forces—leads a person towards the Supreme reality.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | परं भूयः प्रवक्ष्यामि ज्ञानानां ज्ञानमुत्तमम् | यज्ज्ञात्वा मुनयः सर्वे परां सिद्धिमितो गताः ||१४-१||
Krishna says he will now share an even higher wisdom: the knowledge that helps us understand the forces shaping our thoughts, behaviour, and life. Sages who truly understood it rose beyond ordinary worldly limitations and attained the highest spiritual fulfilment.
इदं ज्ञानमुपाश्रित्य मम साधर्म्यमागताः | सर्गेऽपि नोपजायन्ते प्रलये न व्यथन्ति च ||१४-२||
Krishna says that those who take shelter in this spiritual wisdom rise beyond the changing forces of material nature and come to share in His divine state. They are no longer shaken by the cycle of creation and dissolution, because their identity is rooted in the eternal, not in what is born and passes away.
मम योनिर्महद् ब्रह्म तस्मिन्गर्भं दधाम्यहम् | सम्भवः सर्वभूतानां ततो भवति भारत ||१४-३||
Krishna says that the vast field of material nature is the womb from which all living beings take birth, while He is the divine source that places the seed of life within it. The verse reminds us that every form of life ultimately arises through the union of God’s sustaining power and nature.
सर्वयोनिषु कौन्तेय मूर्तयः सम्भवन्ति याः | तासां ब्रह्म महद्योनिरहं बीजप्रदः पिता ||१४-४||
Krishna says that all living beings, in every kind of body and birth, arise from the same divine source. Material nature provides the womb in which bodies take form, while God is the seed-giving Father. This reminds us that beneath our outward differences, all life is connected and sacred.
सत्त्वं रजस्तम इति गुणाः प्रकृतिसम्भवाः | निबध्नन्ति महाबाहो देहे देहिनमव्ययम् ||१४-५||
Krishna says that our everyday nature is shaped by three forces of material life: sattva (clarity and harmony), rajas (restless desire and activity), and tamas (inertia and ignorance). Though the true self is eternal, these forces keep it tied to bodily experiences, habits, emotions, and attachments.
तत्र सत्त्वं निर्मलत्वात्प्रकाशकमनामयम् | सुखसङ्गेन बध्नाति ज्ञानसङ्गेन चानघ ||१४-६||
Sattva, the quality of clarity and goodness, brings lightness, health, understanding, and inner peace. Yet even this elevated state can become a subtle bond when we become attached to feeling happy, peaceful, or proud of being knowledgeable; the Gita invites us to value clarity without becoming trapped by it.
सत्त्वं सुखे सञ्जयति रजः कर्मणि भारत | ज्ञानमावृत्य तु तमः प्रमादे सञ्जयत्युत ||१४-९||
Our state of mind shapes what we become attached to. Sattva draws us toward comfort, clarity, and refined happiness; rajas keeps us restless and absorbed in doing, achieving, and chasing results; tamas clouds understanding and pulls us into carelessness, laziness, and confusion. Krishna invites us to notice these tendencies within ourselves rather than blindly being driven by them.
रजस्तमश्चाभिभूय सत्त्वं भवति भारत | रजः सत्त्वं तमश्चैव तमः सत्त्वं रजस्तथा ||१४-१०||
Within us, the three qualities of nature—clarity and balance (sattva), restless desire and activity (rajas), and dullness or inertia (tamas)—keep rising and falling. At one time calm understanding may lead; at another, ambition and agitation; and at another, confusion or lethargy. Recognising these changing states helps us avoid mistaking a passing mood for our true self.
सर्वद्वारेषु देहेऽस्मिन्प्रकाश उपजायते | ज्ञानं यदा तदा विद्याद्विवृद्धं सत्त्वमित्युत ||१४-११||
When clarity, understanding, and a sense of inner light begin to guide your thoughts and senses, it is a sign that sattva—the quality of balance and goodness—is becoming strong within you. In that state, you see situations more clearly and are less driven by impulse, agitation, or confusion.
यदा सत्त्वे प्रवृद्धे तु प्रलयं याति देहभृत् | तदोत्तमविदां लोकानमलान्प्रतिपद्यते ||१४-१४||
Krishna says that when a person leaves the body while the quality of sattva—clarity, harmony, and goodness—is strong within them, they move towards pure and elevated realms associated with those who know the Highest Truth. The verse encourages us to shape our inner life through wisdom, kindness, self-control, and a sincere search for what is true.
कर्मणः सुकृतस्याहुः सात्त्विकं निर्मलं फलम् | रजसस्तु फलं दुःखमज्ञानं तमसः फलम् ||१४-१६||
Every action leaves an inner result. Actions done with clarity, sincerity, and concern for what is right bring a pure and peaceful outcome. Actions driven by restless desire and ambition often lead to stress and dissatisfaction, while actions born of laziness, carelessness, or delusion deepen ignorance and confusion. This verse encourages us to notice not only what we do, but also the state of mind from which we do it.
सत्त्वात्सञ्जायते ज्ञानं रजसो लोभ एव च | प्रमादमोहौ तमसो भवतोऽज्ञानमेव च ||१४-१७||
The state of mind we cultivate shapes what grows within us. Clarity and understanding arise from sattva, restless desire and greed arise from rajas, while tamas leads to carelessness, confusion, and ignorance. By noticing these tendencies in ourselves, we can consciously move toward greater clarity and balance.
ऊर्ध्वं गच्छन्ति सत्त्वस्था मध्ये तिष्ठन्ति राजसाः | जघन्यगुणवृत्तिस्था अधो गच्छन्ति तामसाः ||१४-१८||
The quality that shapes your mind also shapes the direction of your life. Sattva—clarity, goodness, and wisdom—lifts a person towards higher understanding; rajas, driven by restless desire and activity, keeps one caught in worldly striving; and tamas, marked by ignorance and inertia, pulls one down into confusion and harmful choices. Krishna is urging us to notice which tendency we are feeding and consciously move towards clarity.
नान्यं गुणेभ्यः कर्तारं यदा द्रष्टानुपश्यति | गुणेभ्यश्च परं वेत्ति मद्भावं सोऽधिगच्छति ||१४-१९||
When you clearly see that your changing thoughts, emotions, and actions are shaped by the three gunas of nature, you stop treating the restless ego as the sole doer. By also recognising the Self—the divine reality beyond these changing qualities—you begin to rise above their hold and move towards union with God.
गुणानेतानतीत्य त्रीन्देही देहसमुद्भवान् | जन्ममृत्युजरादुःखैर्विमुक्तोऽमृतमश्नुते ||१४-२०||
When we rise above the pull of the three gunas—calm goodness, restless desire, and dull inertia—we stop being trapped by the changing conditions of the body and mind. Freed from the suffering tied to birth, ageing and death, the soul realizes its immortal nature.
अर्जुन उवाच कैर्लिङ्गैस्त्रीन्गुणानेतानतीतो भवति प्रभो | किमाचारः कथं चैतांस्त्रीन्गुणानतिवर्तते ||१४-२१||
Arjuna asks Krishna how to recognise a person who has risen above the constant pull of goodness, restlessness, and inertia. He also wants to know how such a person lives in the world and what path helps one move beyond these three forces of nature.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | प्रकाशं च प्रवृत्तिं च मोहमेव च पाण्डव | न द्वेष्टि सम्प्रवृत्तानि न निवृत्तानि काङ्क्षति ||१४-२२||
Krishna describes a person who is not controlled by changing inner states. When clarity, restless drive, or confusion arises, they do not hate themselves for it; when these states pass, they do not crave their return. They observe these movements with steadiness instead of being pulled around by them.
उदासीनवदासीनो गुणैर्यो न विचाल्यते | गुणा वर्तन्त इत्येवं योऽवतिष्ठति नेङ्गते ||१४-२३||
A person who has risen above the pull of the three gunas does not get swept away by changing moods, impulses, or circumstances. They remain steady, understanding that these qualities of nature are simply doing their work, while their deeper self can stay calm and unattached.
समदुःखसुखः स्वस्थः समलोष्टाश्मकाञ्चनः | तुल्यप्रियाप्रियो धीरस्तुल्यनिन्दात्मसंस्तुतिः ||१४-२४||
A person who has risen above life’s changing moods remains steady in both joy and sorrow. They do not let wealth, possessions, praise, criticism, friendship, or hostility decide their inner worth; rooted within themselves, they meet all of it with calm strength.
मानापमानयोस्तुल्यस्तुल्यो मित्रारिपक्षयोः | सर्वारम्भपरित्यागी गुणातीतः स उच्यते ||१४-२५||
A person who has risen beyond the pull of the three gunas is not inflated by praise or crushed by insult. They keep the same inner balance whether dealing with friends or opponents, and do not chase new ventures merely out of ego, restless desire, or the need to prove themselves. This does not mean becoming careless about one’s responsibilities; it means acting without being controlled by personal likes, dislikes, status, or ambition.
मां च योऽव्यभिचारेण भक्तियोगेन सेवते | स गुणान्समतीत्यैतान्ब्रह्मभूयाय कल्पते ||१४-२६||
A person who serves God with steady, wholehearted devotion rises above the constant pull of the three gunas—restlessness, attachment, dullness, and even limited goodness. Such devotion makes them ready to realise their deeper spiritual nature and attain union with Brahman.
ब्रह्मणो हि प्रतिष्ठाहममृतस्याव्ययस्य च | शाश्वतस्य च धर्मस्य सुखस्यैकान्तिकस्य च ||१४-२७||
Krishna says that He is the ultimate foundation of the eternal reality: immortality, unchanging truth, righteous living, and complete lasting joy all rest in Him. After describing how to rise above the changing pulls of the three gunas, He points to devotion to God as the secure ground from which a person can find freedom and deep peace.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | ऊर्ध्वमूलमधःशाखमश्वत्थं प्राहुरव्ययम् | छन्दांसि यस्य पर्णानि यस्तं वेद स वेदवित् ||१५-१||
Krishna describes worldly life as an upside-down sacred tree: its root is in the higher divine reality, while its branches spread downward into the changing world of actions, desires, and attachments. Its leaves are the Vedic hymns that nourish and explain this tree. To truly understand this image is to see both the world’s divine source and the way we can become entangled in it.
न रूपमस्येह तथोपलभ्यते नान्तो न चादिर्न च सम्प्रतिष्ठा | अश्वत्थमेनं सुविरूढमूलं असङ्गशस्त्रेण दृढेन छित्त्वा ||१५-३||
The web of worldly life is so vast and tangled that we cannot fully trace where it begins, where it ends, or what keeps it standing. Its attachments run deep, so Krishna asks us to cut through them with the firm inner discipline of non-attachment—not by abandoning life, but by refusing to let possessions, desires, and relationships bind our peace and identity.
ततः पदं तत्परिमार्गितव्यं यस्मिन्गता न निवर्तन्ति भूयः | तमेव चाद्यं पुरुषं प्रपद्ये | यतः प्रवृत्तिः प्रसृता पुराणी ||१५-४||
Once we recognise how deeply we are entangled in worldly attachments, we should seek the highest spiritual destination—the state from which there is no return to suffering and repeated bondage. Krishna asks us to take refuge in the eternal Supreme Being, the original source from whom this ancient flow of life and creation has emerged.
निर्मानमोहा जितसङ्गदोषा अध्यात्मनित्या विनिवृत्तकामाः | द्वन्द्वैर्विमुक्ताः सुखदुःखसंज्ञैर्- गच्छन्त्यमूढाः पदमव्ययं तत् ||१५-५||
Those who let go of ego, confusion, and unhealthy attachment become inwardly steady. By turning away from endless cravings and not being shaken by pleasure or pain, they see life clearly and move towards the eternal Divine reality.
न तद्भासयते सूर्यो न शशाङ्को न पावकः | यद्गत्वा न निवर्तन्ते तद्धाम परमं मम ||१५-६||
Krishna describes His highest abode as a reality beyond all material light—the sun, moon, and fire are not needed there. Reaching that divine state means freedom from the repeated cycle of birth and death, and lasting union with the Supreme.
ममैवांशो जीवलोके जीवभूतः सनातनः | मनःषष्ठानीन्द्रियाणि प्रकृतिस्थानि कर्षति ||१५-७||
Krishna says that every living being carries an eternal spark of the Divine within. Yet, while living in the material world, the soul becomes involved with the mind and five senses, which pull it toward worldly experiences and attachments. Remembering our spiritual nature can help us rise above this constant tug of desires and distractions.
शरीरं यदवाप्नोति यच्चाप्युत्क्रामतीश्वरः | गृहीत्वैतानि संयाति वायुर्गन्धानिवाशयात् ||१५-८||
The soul does not end when the body dies. As it leaves one body and enters another, it carries the mind and senses’ tendencies with it—just as the wind carries a fragrance away from a flower. This reminds us that our inner habits and attachments shape our journey beyond this present life.
श्रोत्रं चक्षुः स्पर्शनं च रसनं घ्राणमेव च | अधिष्ठाय मनश्चायं विषयानुपसेवते ||१५-९||
The individual soul experiences the world through the five senses—hearing, sight, touch, taste, and smell—along with the mind. These senses bring us into contact with pleasures and objects outside us, but the soul itself is more than these changing experiences; recognising this helps us avoid becoming trapped by every desire and attraction.
उत्क्रामन्तं स्थितं वापि भुञ्जानं वा गुणान्वितम् | विमूढा नानुपश्यन्ति पश्यन्ति ज्ञानचक्षुषः ||१५-१०||
Most people notice only the body and its outward actions, not the conscious self within it. Whether the soul leaves a body, remains in it, or experiences life through the senses and the three qualities of nature, it is not easily recognised. Those who cultivate inner wisdom learn to see this deeper reality beyond appearances.
यतन्तो योगिनश्चैनं पश्यन्त्यात्मन्यवस्थितम् | यतन्तोऽप्यकृतात्मानो नैनं पश्यन्त्यचेतसः ||१५-११||
Those who sincerely discipline their mind and deepen their spiritual practice begin to recognise the Divine presence within themselves. But simply making effort is not enough: when the mind is scattered, immature, or ruled by impulses, this inner truth remains unseen. Real understanding grows through self-purification, steady attention, and inner awareness.
यदादित्यगतं तेजो जगद्भासयतेऽखिलम् | यच्चन्द्रमसि यच्चाग्नौ तत्तेजो विद्धि मामकम् ||१५-१२||
Krishna says that the light shining through the sun, moon, and fire is an expression of His divine presence. The brilliance and order we see in nature are not separate from the Divine; they remind us that God quietly sustains and illuminates the whole world.
गामाविश्य च भूतानि धारयाम्यहमोजसा | पुष्णामि चौषधीः सर्वाः सोमो भूत्वा रसात्मकः ||१५-१३||
Krishna says that the same Divine presence quietly sustains life everywhere: it holds the earth and all living beings in place, and nourishes plants through the moon’s cooling, life-giving influence. Seeing this can awaken gratitude—our food, strength, and survival are not merely personal achievements, but are supported by a deeper divine order.
अहं वैश्वानरो भूत्वा प्राणिनां देहमाश्रितः | प्राणापानसमायुक्तः पचाम्यन्नं चतुर्विधम् ||१५-१४||
Krishna says that the divine is present even in the body’s most ordinary process: digestion. As the inner vital fire, working with the breath, He transforms the food we eat into nourishment. This is a reminder that our life and strength are not entirely self-created; they are sustained each moment by a deeper divine presence.
सर्वस्य चाहं हृदि सन्निविष्टो मत्तः स्मृतिर्ज्ञानमपोहनञ्च | वेदैश्च सर्वैरहमेव वेद्यो वेदान्तकृद्वेदविदेव चाहम् ||१५-१५||
Krishna says that the Divine dwells within every heart and is the source of our ability to remember, understand, and even forget. The deepest purpose of all true learning and spiritual study is to recognise and know this Divine reality, which is both the source and the knower of all wisdom.
द्वाविमौ पुरुषौ लोके क्षरश्चाक्षर एव च | क्षरः सर्वाणि भूतानि कूटस्थोऽक्षर उच्यते ||१५-१६||
Krishna says that life has two dimensions: the changing world of bodies and beings, which is perishable, and the unchanging inner reality, which is imperishable. Recognising this helps us not cling too tightly to temporary circumstances and to seek steadiness in what remains constant within us.
उत्तमः पुरुषस्त्वन्यः परमात्मेत्युधाहृतः | यो लोकत्रयमाविश्य बिभर्त्यव्यय ईश्वरः ||१५-१७||
Beyond the changing body and the individual soul is the Supreme Self—God, the eternal Lord. Present throughout all realms, He sustains the whole universe without ever diminishing or being affected by its changes. Remembering this can help us place our trust in something steady and divine amid life’s uncertainty.
यस्मात्क्षरमतीतोऽहमक्षरादपि चोत्तमः | अतोऽस्मि लोके वेदे च प्रथितः पुरुषोत्तमः ||१५-१८||
Krishna says that He is beyond both the changing material world and even the individual imperishable soul. As the Supreme Person, He is the ultimate source, support, and reality behind all that exists. Recognising this helps us look beyond temporary identities and place our trust in the Divine.
यो मामेवमसम्मूढो जानाति पुरुषोत्तमम् | स सर्वविद्भजति मां सर्वभावेन भारत ||१५-१९||
When we clearly understand Krishna as the Supreme Divine Reality, beyond the changing world and yet present within it, confusion begins to fall away. Such understanding is not merely intellectual: it naturally leads a person to love, trust, and worship Him wholeheartedly, with their entire life.
इति गुह्यतमं शास्त्रमिदमुक्तं मयानघ | एतद्बुद्ध्वा बुद्धिमान्स्यात्कृतकृत्यश्च भारत ||१५-२०||
Krishna closes this teaching by saying that understanding the Supreme Reality is the deepest wisdom. When a person truly recognises God as the highest truth and lives with that awareness, their understanding becomes clear and life finds its real fulfilment; they no longer feel that something essential is missing.
श्रीभगवानुवाच | अभयं सत्त्वसंशुद्धिर्ज्ञानयोगव्यवस्थितिः | दानं दमश्च यज्ञश्च स्वाध्यायस्तप आर्जवम् ||१६-१||
Krishna begins by naming the qualities that build a noble and spiritually strong character: courage, a clean heart, commitment to wisdom, generosity, self-control, sincere practice, self-study, discipline, and honesty. These are not merely ideals to admire—they are habits that gradually free us from fear, selfishness, and inner confusion.
अहिंसा सत्यमक्रोधस्त्यागः शान्तिरपैशुनम् | दया भूतेष्वलोलुप्त्वं मार्दवं ह्रीरचापलम् ||१६-२||
Krishna describes the qualities of a person with a divine nature: do no harm, speak truthfully, do not be ruled by anger, and let go of selfish grasping. Such a person is peaceful, does not slander others, treats every being with compassion, remains gentle and humble, and is not carried away by restless impulses.
तेजः क्षमा धृतिः शौचमद्रोहो नातिमानिता | भवन्ति सम्पदं दैवीमभिजातस्य भारत ||१६-३||
Krishna says that a truly noble nature is recognised through inner strength and humility together: courage, forgiveness, steady patience, cleanliness in thought and conduct, freedom from hatred, and freedom from arrogance. These qualities are not signs of weakness; they show a person whose character is becoming uplifted and spiritually mature.
त्रिविधं नरकस्येदं द्वारं नाशनमात्मनः | कामः क्रोधस्तथा लोभस्तस्मादेतत्त्रयं त्यजेत् ||१६-२१||
Krishna warns that uncontrolled desire, anger, and greed can pull us into choices that harm our character, peace, and future. Letting go of these inner forces does not mean giving up all aspirations; it means refusing to let craving, rage, or selfish accumulation rule our actions.
एतैर्विमुक्तः कौन्तेय तमोद्वारैस्त्रिभिर्नरः | आचरत्यात्मनः श्रेयस्ततो याति परां गतिम् ||१६-२२||
Krishna says that when we free ourselves from the three destructive forces of lust, anger, and greed, we stop moving towards inner darkness. We can then choose what truly supports our well-being, grow in clarity and goodness, and move steadily towards the highest spiritual fulfilment.
आहारस्त्वपि सर्वस्य त्रिविधो भवति प्रियः | यज्ञस्तपस्तथा दानं तेषां भेदमिमं शृणु ||१७-७||
Krishna says that our everyday choices are not all alike: the food we prefer, the way we worship, the discipline we practise, and the way we give all reflect different qualities of mind. He now invites us to understand these differences, so that we can choose habits that bring greater clarity, balance, and inner growth.
आयुःसत्त्वबलारोग्यसुखप्रीतिविवर्धनाः | रस्याः स्निग्धाः स्थिरा हृद्या आहाराः सात्त्विकप्रियाः ||१७-८||
Krishna says that sattvic food supports a healthy, balanced life: it nourishes the body, builds strength, promotes well-being, and brings a sense of comfort and cheerfulness. Such food is fresh, wholesome, satisfying, and pleasing to the heart—not merely exciting to the tongue, but genuinely sustaining.
कट्वम्ललवणात्युष्णतीक्ष्णरूक्षविदाहिनः | आहारा राजसस्येष्टा दुःखशोकामयप्रदाः ||१७-९||
Krishna says that a restless, passion-driven nature is often drawn to food that is overly bitter, sour, salty, hot, spicy, dry, or irritating. Such extremes may give a quick thrill to the senses, but when they become a habit, they can disturb the body and mind, leading to discomfort, sorrow, and illness. The teaching is not against flavour; it reminds us to choose nourishment with balance rather than being ruled by cravings for excess.
यातयामं गतरसं पूति पर्युषितं च यत् | उच्छिष्टमपि चामेध्यं भोजनं तामसप्रियम् ||१७-१०||
Food that is stale, bland, spoiled, leftover, or unclean is associated with tamas—the quality of dullness and inertia. Krishna’s point is that what we repeatedly consume affects our energy, clarity, and state of mind, so choosing fresh and wholesome food supports a more alert and balanced life.
अफलाङ्क्षिभिर्यज्ञो विधिदृष्टो य इज्यते | यष्टव्यमेवेति मनः समाधाय स सात्त्विकः ||१७-११||
A pure offering is made not to gain praise, favour, or any personal reward, but because it is the right thing to do. When you carry out your responsibilities with a steady mind and sincere intention, the action itself becomes uplifting and purifying.
देवद्विजगुरुप्राज्ञपूजनं शौचमार्जवम् | ब्रह्मचर्यमहिंसा च शारीरं तप उच्यते ||१७-१४||
True discipline is not only about fasting or physical hardship. It is expressed through respecting the divine, honouring teachers and wise people, keeping oneself clean, being honest and straightforward, practising self-control, and avoiding harm to others. These everyday choices are the real austerity of the body.
अनुद्वेगकरं वाक्यं सत्यं प्रियहितं च यत् | स्वाध्यायाभ्यसनं चैव वाङ्मयं तप उच्यते ||१७-१५||
True discipline in speech means speaking in a way that does not needlessly disturb or hurt others. Our words should be honest, kind, and genuinely helpful—not merely pleasant or flattering. Regular study and reflection on sacred wisdom is also part of this practice, because it teaches us to use our voice with care and integrity.
मनः प्रसादः सौम्यत्वं मौनमात्मविनिग्रहः | भावसंशुद्धिरित्येतत्तपो मानसमुच्यते ||१७-१६||
True discipline is not only about what we do outwardly; it also means caring for the mind. A calm and cheerful mind, kindness toward others, thoughtful silence, self-control, and honest, pure intentions are all forms of inner spiritual practice.
श्रद्धया परया तप्तं तपस्तत्त्रिविधं नरैः | अफलाकाङ्क्षिभिर्युक्तैः सात्त्विकं परिचक्षते ||१७-१७||
Austerity becomes sattvic when it is practised with deep faith, steadiness, and no expectation of praise, reward, or personal gain. Whether it is discipline of the body, speech, or mind, its purity lies in doing it sincerely as a part of one’s inner growth, not as a transaction.
ॐतत्सदिति निर्देशो ब्रह्मणस्त्रिविधः स्मृतः | ब्राह्मणास्तेन वेदाश्च यज्ञाश्च विहिताः पुरा ||१७-२३||
“Om Tat Sat” is a sacred threefold name for the Supreme Reality. It reminds us that spiritual learning, sacred practice, and selfless offerings are meant to be rooted in something higher than personal ego or gain.
तस्मादोमित्युदाहृत्य यज्ञदानतपःक्रियाः | प्रवर्तन्ते विधानोक्ताः सततं ब्रह्मवादिनाम् ||१७-२४||
Krishna says that people seeking the highest truth begin acts of worship, charity, and self-discipline with “Om.” This sacred sound is a reminder that these actions are not merely personal achievements or rituals, but offerings connected to the Divine and guided by a higher purpose.
तदित्यनभिसन्धाय फलं यज्ञतपःक्रियाः | दानक्रियाश्च विविधाः क्रियन्ते मोक्षकाङ्क्षिभिः ||१७-२५||
When you dedicate your actions to the highest truth—remembered through the word “Tat” (“That”)—you stop being trapped by the need for personal reward. Sacrifice, self-discipline, and charity then become ways to purify the heart and move toward inner freedom, rather than ways to gain praise, status, or benefit.
यज्ञदानतपःकर्म न त्याज्यं कार्यमेव तत् | यज्ञो दानं तपश्चैव पावनानि मनीषिणाम् ||१८-५||
Do not give up meaningful acts of worship, generosity, and self-discipline in the name of renunciation. When done sincerely, without ego or greed for results, these practices cleanse the mind and help even thoughtful people grow spiritually.
एतान्यपि तु कर्माणि सङ्गं त्यक्त्वा फलानि च | कर्तव्यानीति मे पार्थ निश्चितं मतमुत्तमम् ||१८-६||
Krishna says that necessary and noble actions should not be abandoned. Do your duty, but let go of clinging to the work itself and of craving a particular result; this is the highest form of renunciation.
कार्यमित्येव यत्कर्म नियतं क्रियतेऽर्जुन | सङ्गं त्यक्त्वा फलं चैव स त्यागः सात्त्विको मतः ||१८-९||
True renunciation is not running away from responsibility. It is doing the duty that is yours to do because it is right, while letting go of attachment to the task and anxiety about what reward or result it will bring. Krishna calls this the purest kind of renunciation.
न द्वेष्ट्यकुशलं कर्म कुशले नानुषज्जते | त्यागी सत्त्वसमाविष्टो मेधावी छिन्नसंशयः ||१८-१०||
A true renunciate does not run away from difficult or unpleasant duties, nor does he cling to work that feels easy or rewarding. With a clear and steady mind, he does what is right without being driven by likes, dislikes, or doubts about the path.
न हि देहभृता शक्यं त्यक्तुं कर्माण्यशेषतः | यस्तु कर्मफलत्यागी स त्यागीत्यभिधीयते ||१८-११||
As long as we live in a body, we cannot completely stop acting—life itself involves responsibilities and choices. True renunciation is not running away from work, but doing what must be done without clinging to praise, profit, success, or any personal reward from it.
अनिष्टमिष्टं मिश्रं च त्रिविधं कर्मणः फलम् | भवत्यत्यागिनां प्रेत्य न तु संन्यासिनां क्वचित् ||१८-१२||
Every action brings consequences—pleasant, unpleasant, or a mixture of both—for those who act while holding on to personal desires and ownership. But one who does their duty without attachment to results, offering the action to the Divine, is not bound by these karmic outcomes.
सर्वभूतेषु येनैकं भावमव्ययमीक्षते | अविभक्तं विभक्तेषु तज्ज्ञानं विद्धि सात्त्विकम् ||१८-२०||
True, balanced wisdom is the ability to see one eternal divine reality present in every being, even though people appear different in body, nature, role, and circumstances. This vision dissolves feelings of superiority and separation, and encourages respect, compassion, and inner peace.
नियतं सङ्गरहितमरागद्वेषतः कृतम् | अफलप्रेप्सुना कर्म यत्तत्सात्त्विकमुच्यते ||१८-२३||
A sattvic action is one done because it is the right thing to do, not because we are attached to it or expect a reward. When we carry out our duty without personal likes, dislikes, or obsession with results, our work becomes calmer, cleaner, and more uplifting.
मुक्तसङ्गोऽनहंवादी धृत्युत्साहसमन्वितः | सिद्ध्यसिद्ध्योर्निर्विकारः कर्ता सात्त्विक उच्यते ||१८-२६||
A truly balanced person does their work with commitment and energy, without being trapped by attachment or ego. They stay steady whether the result is success or failure, because they focus on doing what is right rather than proving themselves or chasing recognition. Krishna calls such a doer sattvic—guided by clarity and inner purity.
प्रवृत्तिं च निवृत्तिं च कार्याकार्ये भयाभये | बन्धं मोक्षं च या वेत्ति बुद्धिः सा पार्थ सात्त्विकी ||१८-३०||
A pure and steady intellect helps us see life clearly: when to act and when to step back, what is right and what is harmful, what truly deserves caution, and what leads us toward freedom rather than deeper attachment. Such discernment is called sattvic intelligence.
धृत्या यया धारयते मनःप्राणेन्द्रियक्रियाः | योगेनाव्यभिचारिण्या धृतिः सा पार्थ सात्त्विकी ||१८-३३||
True inner strength is the steady discipline that keeps your mind, breath, and senses from pulling you in different directions. When this self-control is supported by a sincere, consistent spiritual practice, it is called sattvic firmness—calm, pure, and dependable.
सुखं त्विदानीं त्रिविधं शृणु मे भरतर्षभ | अभ्यासाद्रमते यत्र दुःखान्तं च निगच्छति ||१८-३६||
Krishna now explains that happiness is not all the same. The deepest kind may require steady practice at first, but it gradually brings inner joy and helps bring an end to suffering.
यत्तदग्रे विषमिव परिणामेऽमृतोपमम् | तत्सुखं सात्त्विकं प्रोक्तमात्मबुद्धिप्रसादजम् ||१८-३७||
The happiness that comes from discipline, self-understanding, and a clear mind may feel difficult at first—like poison—because it asks us to let go of easy pleasures and old habits. But over time, it brings deep inner peace and fulfilment, like nectar; this is called sattvic happiness.
न तदस्ति पृथिव्यां वा दिवि देवेषु वा पुनः | सत्त्वं प्रकृतिजैर्मुक्तं यदेभिः स्यात्त्रिभिर्गुणैः ||१८-४०||
No one—whether on earth or even among the gods in heaven—is completely untouched by the three qualities of nature: sattva (clarity), rajas (restless desire), and tamas (inertia). These forces shape everyone’s thoughts and actions, so real freedom begins by recognising their influence and rising beyond attachment to them through spiritual wisdom and devotion.
शमो दमस्तपः शौचं क्षान्तिरार्जवमेव च | ज्ञानं विज्ञानमास्तिक्यं ब्रह्मकर्म स्वभावजम् ||१८-४२||
This verse describes the qualities of a person devoted to wisdom and spiritual understanding: inner calm, self-control, discipline, cleanliness, patience, honesty, learning, lived insight, and faith in the Divine. It reminds us that true knowledge is not just collecting information; it should shape our character and bring integrity to the way we live.
यतः प्रवृत्तिर्भूतानां येन सर्वमिदं ततम् | स्वकर्मणा तमभ्यर्च्य सिद्धिं विन्दति मानवः ||१८-४६||
The Divine is the source of every being and is present throughout all creation. When you do your own rightful work sincerely, seeing it as an offering to God rather than merely a way to gain rewards, that very work becomes worship and leads you towards inner fulfilment.
असक्तबुद्धिः सर्वत्र जितात्मा विगतस्पृहः | नैष्कर्म्यसिद्धिं परमां संन्यासेनाधिगच्छति ||१८-४९||
True inner freedom comes when we do what needs to be done without clinging to outcomes, possessions, or personal cravings. By mastering the mind and letting go of selfish desire, a person can act without being inwardly bound by action and its results.
सिद्धिं प्राप्तो यथा ब्रह्म तथाप्नोति निबोध मे | समासेनैव कौन्तेय निष्ठा ज्ञानस्य या परा ||१८-५०||
Krishna now begins to explain the highest culmination of spiritual understanding. He tells Arjuna that a person who has purified and perfected themselves can attain Brahman—the eternal divine reality—and He will describe this supreme path of knowledge briefly.
बुद्ध्या विशुद्धया युक्तो धृत्यात्मानं नियम्य च | शब्दादीन्विषयांस्त्यक्त्वा रागद्वेषौ व्युदस्य च ||१८-५१||
To move toward inner freedom, refine your understanding, steady your mind with discipline, and do not let constant sensory distractions control you. Let go of both craving for what you like and hostility toward what you dislike; a balanced mind becomes ready for deeper spiritual growth.
विविक्तसेवी लघ्वाशी यतवाक्कायमानसः | ध्यानयोगपरो नित्यं वैराग्यं समुपाश्रितः ||१८-५२||
A person preparing for deep inner freedom learns to simplify life: seeking quiet space, eating with moderation, and keeping speech, actions, and thoughts under control. Through regular meditation and letting go of cravings and attachments, the mind becomes steady and ready for spiritual realisation.
अहंकारं बलं दर्पं कामं क्रोधं परिग्रहम् | विमुच्य निर्ममः शान्तो ब्रह्मभूयाय कल्पते ||१८-५३||
To grow spiritually, we need to let go of the ego that says “I am superior,” the pride of power, uncontrolled desires, anger, possessiveness, and the constant feeling of “this is mine.” When the mind becomes free from these burdens and rests in inner peace, a person becomes ready to realise their deepest unity with the Divine.
ब्रह्मभूतः प्रसन्नात्मा न शोचति न काङ्क्षति | समः सर्वेषु भूतेषु मद्भक्तिं लभते पराम् ||१८-५४||
When a person becomes inwardly rooted in the Divine, the mind grows peaceful and complete. They are no longer consumed by regret over what is gone or restless craving for what they do not have. Seeing the same sacred presence in every being, they naturally develop the highest kind of loving devotion to God.
भक्त्या मामभिजानाति यावान्यश्चास्मि तत्त्वतः | ततो मां तत्त्वतो ज्ञात्वा विशते तदनन्तरम् ||१८-५५||
True understanding of the Divine does not come from information alone; it grows through sincere love, trust, and devotion. When devotion helps a person know God as He truly is, they move beyond separation and attain union with the Supreme.
सर्वकर्माण्यपि सदा कुर्वाणो मद्व्यपाश्रयः | मत्प्रसादादवाप्नोति शाश्वतं पदमव्ययम् ||१८-५६||
You do not have to abandon your responsibilities to walk a spiritual path. Keep doing your work, but take refuge in God—offer your efforts to Him and rely on His guidance rather than on your own ego alone. Through this grace-filled attitude, ordinary action becomes a path to lasting freedom and peace.
चेतसा सर्वकर्माणि मयि संन्यस्य मत्परः | बुद्धियोगमुपाश्रित्य मच्चित्तः सततं भव ||१८-५७||
Offer every action to God inwardly, and let Him be your highest aim. Use steady, clear understanding to do what is right, but keep your heart connected to Him at all times; this is how work becomes a path of spiritual growth rather than a burden of ego or expectation.
ईश्वरः सर्वभूतानां हृद्देशेऽर्जुन तिष्ठति | भ्रामयन्सर्वभूतानि यन्त्रारूढानि मायया ||१८-६१||
Krishna says that the Divine lives in the heart of every being and quietly guides the movement of the whole world through His power. Our lives unfold within a vast divine order, shaped by nature, past tendencies, and circumstances; recognising this helps us let go of ego and take sincere refuge in God.
तमेव शरणं गच्छ सर्वभावेन भारत | तत्प्रसादात्परां शान्तिं स्थानं प्राप्स्यसि शाश्वतम् ||१८-६२||
Krishna asks Arjuna to place his whole heart in the Divine and take refuge in Him completely. This is not an escape from life or duty; it means trusting God deeply, offering oneself sincerely, and letting that faith guide one’s actions. Through this grace-filled surrender, a person finds lasting inner peace and reaches the eternal spiritual goal.
इति ते ज्ञानमाख्यातं गुह्याद्गुह्यतरं मया | विमृश्यैतदशेषेण यथेच्छसि तथा कुरु ||१८-६३||
Krishna has shared his deepest wisdom with Arjuna, but he does not force him to accept it. He asks Arjuna to reflect on it carefully and then make his own choice. True spiritual guidance respects your freedom: listen deeply, think clearly, and act with awareness.
सर्वगुह्यतमं भूयः शृणु मे परमं वचः | इष्टोऽसि मे दृढमिति ततो वक्ष्यामि ते हितम् ||१८-६४||
Krishna speaks to Arjuna with deep affection: because you are dear to Me, listen once more to My most profound guidance, meant for your true welfare. The highest spiritual teaching is not distant or impersonal—it is offered with love, for the good of the one who is ready to receive it.
मन्मना भव मद्भक्तो मद्याजी मां नमस्कुरु | मामेवैष्यसि सत्यं ते प्रतिजाने प्रियोऽसि मे ||१८-६५||
Krishna offers a simple path of loving connection: keep your mind turned towards Him, live with devotion, offer your actions to Him, and bow with humility. He gives Arjuna a personal assurance—when you make the Divine your true refuge and goal, you will reach Him, because you are deeply loved by Him.
सर्वधर्मान्परित्यज्य मामेकं शरणं व्रज | अहं त्वा सर्वपापेभ्यो मोक्षयिष्यामि मा शुचः ||१८-६६||
Krishna asks Arjuna to let go of every limited idea of duty, identity, and self-reliance that keeps him trapped in fear and inner conflict, and to surrender wholeheartedly to the Divine. This is not a call to escape responsibility, but to place one’s actions and burdens in God’s care; Krishna promises freedom from the consequences of past wrongs and tells Arjuna not to grieve.
अध्येष्यते च य इमं धर्म्यं संवादमावयोः | ज्ञानयज्ञेन तेनाहमिष्टः स्यामिति मे मतिः ||१८-७०||
Krishna says that sincerely studying and reflecting on this sacred conversation is itself a form of worship. When we seek wisdom not merely to collect information but to understand how to live rightly, that effort becomes an offering to the Divine.
श्रद्धावाननसूयश्च शृणुयादपि यो नरः | सोऽपि मुक्तः शुभाँल्लोकान्प्राप्नुयात्पुण्यकर्मणाम् ||१८-७१||
Even simply listening to this sacred teaching with faith, without finding faults or harbouring resentment, brings spiritual benefit. Such sincere listening purifies the heart and leads one toward the blessed state attained by people who live with virtue and goodness.
कच्चिदेतच्छ्रुतं पार्थ त्वयैकाग्रेण चेतसा | कच्चिदज्ञानसम्मोहः प्रनष्टस्ते धनञ्जय ||१८-७२||
After sharing his complete teaching, Krishna gently asks Arjuna to reflect: Have you listened with full attention, and has the confusion born of ignorance cleared from your mind? It is an invitation to pause, understand deeply, and see whether wisdom has truly changed one’s inner state.
अर्जुन उवाच नष्टो मोहः स्मृतिर्लब्धा त्वत्प्रसादान्मयाच्युत | स्थितोऽस्मि गतसन्देहः करिष्ये वचनं तव ||१८-७३||
Arjuna says that Krishna’s guidance has cleared his confusion and restored his inner clarity. His doubts have fallen away, and he is now ready to stand firm and do what is right, following the wisdom he has received.
सञ्जय उवाच इत्यहं वासुदेवस्य पार्थस्य च महात्मनः | संवादमिममश्रौषमद्भुतं रोमहर्षणम् ||१८-७४||
Sanjaya says that he has listened to the extraordinary conversation between Krishna and Arjuna with deep awe. Its wisdom and spiritual power move him so profoundly that he feels a thrill run through his whole being.
व्यासप्रसादाच्छ्रुतवानेतद्गुह्यमहं परम् | योगं योगेश्वरात्कृष्णात्साक्षात्कथयतः स्वयम् ||१८-७५||
Sanjaya says that, through Vyasa’s grace, he was able to hear Krishna reveal this profound teaching directly. His words remind us that spiritual wisdom is not merely information—it is a precious gift received through the guidance of a true teacher and the Lord’s grace.
राजन्संस्मृत्य संस्मृत्य संवादमिममद्भुतम् | केशवार्जुनयोः पुण्यं हृष्यामि च मुहुर्मुहुः ||१८-७६||
Sanjaya tells King Dhritarashtra that whenever he remembers this sacred and extraordinary conversation between Krishna and Arjuna, his heart fills with joy again. The wisdom of the Gita is not merely something to hear once; returning to it again and again can bring fresh clarity, faith, and inner upliftment.
तच्च संस्मृत्य संस्मृत्य रूपमत्यद्भुतं हरेः | विस्मयो मे महान् राजन्हृष्यामि च पुनः पुनः ||१८-७७||
Sanjaya says that whenever he remembers Krishna’s astonishing divine form, he is filled with wonder and joy all over again. A genuine glimpse of the Divine does not grow dull with repetition; it continues to awaken the heart with awe and happiness.
यत्र योगेश्वरः कृष्णो यत्र पार्थो धनुर्धरः | तत्र श्रीर्विजयो भूतिर्ध्रुवा नीतिर्मतिर्मम ||१८-७८||
Sanjaya ends with a firm conviction: wherever Krishna’s divine wisdom and guidance join hands with Arjuna’s courage and willingness to act, success and well-being follow. The verse reminds us that lasting victory is not just about effort or faith alone—it comes from bringing clear values, inner guidance, and sincere action together.
