Gita 10.34
मृत्यु: सर्वहरश्चाहमुद्भवश्च भविष्यताम् |
कीर्ति: श्रीर्वाक्च नारीणां स्मृतिर्मेधा धृति: क्षमा || 34||
mṛityuḥ sarva-haraśh chāham udbhavaśh cha bhaviṣhyatām
kīrtiḥ śhrīr vāk cha nārīṇāṁ smṛitir medhā dhṛitiḥ kṣhamā
In Bhagavad Gita verse 10.34, Shree Krishna declares that he embodies the essence of destructive forces, as he is the all-consuming fire in the form of death. This verse emphasizes the inevitability of death as a fundamental aspect of life, signifying that all living beings must ultimately face it. Here, Krishna highlights his role as both a creator and a destroyer, asserting that he is the principle behind the cyclical nature of life and death. This duality underscores the idea that life, with its joys and sorrows, is transient, and emphasizes the importance of understanding and accepting life's impermanence.
This verse discusses the perception of qualities attributed to women and men, noting that certain traits are considered adornments for women while others are praiseworthy in men. An ideal personality is one that balances both sets of qualities. Shree Krishna identifies seven virtues that enhance a woman's glory: fame, prosperity, perfect speech, memory, intelligence, courage, and forgiveness. The first three virtues are external attributes, while the latter four are internal characteristics, emphasizing the importance of both visible and intrinsic qualities in a well-rounded personality.
Additionally, it notes that Prajapati Daksha, the progenitor of humankind, had twenty-four daughters, with five—Kirti, Smriti, Medha, Dhriti, and Kshama—deemed the best. It also mentions Shree and Vak, the daughters of Sage Bhrigu and Brahma, respectively, who, along with the five mentioned, represent the presiding deities of the qualities highlighted by Shree Krishna, demonstrating how these virtues are considered divine manifestations.
Gita 10.36
द्यूतं छलयतामस्मि तेजस्तेजस्विनामहम् |
जयोऽस्मि व्यवसायोऽस्मि सत्त्वं सत्त्ववतामहम् || 36||
dyūtaṁ chhalayatām asmi tejas tejasvinām aham
jayo ’smi vyavasāyo ’smi sattvaṁ sattvavatām aham
In this verse, Shree Krishna discusses the concept of virtue and vice as manifestations of divine opulence. He specifically addresses gambling, highlighting it as a dangerous vice that can devastate families, businesses, and individual lives.
The negative consequences of gambling are illustrated through the example of Yudhishthir, whose weakness for gambling ultimately contributed to the outbreak of the Mahabharata War.
The negative consequences of gambling are illustrated through the example of Yudhishthir, whose weakness for gambling ultimately contributed to the outbreak of the Mahabharata War.
This raises a crucial question: if gambling is part of God's glory, does that imply it is without harm, and why is it prohibited? The response lies in understanding the nature of free will. God endows each soul with the freedom to choose, along with the inherent power to make decisions—whether positive or negative.
Just as electric power can be utilized for heating or cooling a house, individuals can choose to use their God-given intellect and abilities positively or misapply them, such as through gambling. In this analogy, the power source (God) is not responsible for how the energy is used or misused by individuals.
Consequently, while God grants the faculties of intellect and capability, it is up to the individual to use them wisely. If someone misuses these gifts, such as through gambling, they alone bear the responsibility for those sinful actions.
Furthermore, the passage emphasises the value of determination and victory, which are also seen as reflections of divine glory. Shree Krishna reiterates that virtues, achievements, successes, and strong resolves are manifestations of God's power. Rather than viewing these qualities as solely individual accomplishments, individuals should recognize them as divine gifts. This perspective fosters humility and encourages individuals to acknowledge their reliance on God for their strengths and successes instead of attributing them solely to personal effort.
Gita 10.38
दण्डो दमयतामस्मि नीतिरस्मि जिगीषताम् |
मौनं चैवास्मि गुह्यानां ज्ञानं ज्ञानवतामहम् || 38||
daṇḍo damayatām asmi nītir asmi jigīṣhatām
maunaṁ chaivāsmi guhyānāṁ jñānaṁ jñānavatām aham
This verse explores the interplay of human behaviour, ethics, and spiritual wisdom through various themes. It highlights the limitations of mere preaching when it comes to promoting good conduct among people, suggesting that direct consequences, such as punishment, play a significant role in reforming behaviour. Timely and just punishment serves not only to correct individuals who have strayed from moral conduct but also acts as a deterrent to others in society who might consider engaging in wrongful actions. The reference to modern management theory suggests that effective behavioural correction can be achieved through a balanced approach of both punishment and reward, indicating that recognition of good behaviour is equally important.
This verse also emphasizes the universal desire for victory but highlights that truly strong individuals are those who refuse to compromise their morals and ethics to attain success. Victory achieved through righteousness aligns with divine principles, symbolizing the strength of God. This notion establishes a distinction between legitimate success rooted in ethical behaviour and success gained through unethical means.
The discussion of secrets introduces the idea that knowledge often becomes diluted as it passes from one individual to another. The saying about secrets conveys the significance of privacy and the weight of undisclosed truths. The greatest secrets, according to the text, are those that remain silently guarded, suggesting that some truths hold profound importance and are only meant to be understood by a select few.
Furthermore, this verse delves into the nature of true wisdom, describing it as a product of spiritual growth and self-realization. Wisdom is not merely about acquiring knowledge but about understanding the deeper connections between all things and their relationship with God. A person with this wisdom gains clarity and insight, leading to personal purification and fulfillment. This wisdom provides the individual with a clear sense of direction in life, enabling them to navigate challenges and maintain their resolve even in difficult times. Shree Krishna states that he embodies such wisdom, indicating that divine insight can manifest in those who are wise, reinforcing the connection between spirituality and ethical living.
Gita 10.39
यच्चापि सर्वभूतानां बीजं तदहमर्जुन |
न तदस्ति विना यत्स्यान्मया भूतं चराचरम् || 39||
yach chāpi sarva-bhūtānāṁ bījaṁ tad aham arjuna
na tad asti vinā yat syān mayā bhūtaṁ charācharam
Shree Krishna serves both as the efficient cause and the material cause of all creation. As the efficient cause, he is the creator who brings the world into existence, while as the material cause, he is the substance from which creation arises. In verses 7.10 and 9.18, he refers to himself as "the eternal seed" and "the generating seed," emphasizing that he is the source of all things and that nothing can exist without his potency.
He categorizes living beings into four classes based on their mode of birth: Aṇḍaj (born from eggs, like birds and reptiles), Jarāyuj (born from the womb, such as humans and mammals), Swedaj (born from sweat, like lice and ticks), and Udbhij (sprouting from the earth, including plants and crops). Additionally, he acknowledges the existence of other life forms, like ghosts and spirits, all of which trace their origin back to Shree Krishna.
Gita 10.40
नान्तोऽस्ति मम दिव्यानां विभूतीनां परन्तप |
एष तूद्देशत: प्रोक्तो विभूतेर्विस्तरो मया || 40||
nānto ’sti mama divyānāṁ vibhūtīnāṁ parantapa
eṣha tūddeśhataḥ prokto vibhūter vistaro mayā
In this verse, Shree Krishna is elucidating the idea of his omnipresence and the relationship between himself and the entirety of creation, both the spiritual and material realms.
1. Infinite Opulences: Shree Krishna mentions that his glory or opulence is infinite. However, in his discourse to Arjuna, he has only highlighted a selection (82) of these opulences. This indicates that while he has shared some examples of his divine qualities and powers, there are innumerable others that exist beyond what can be expressed or understood.
2. Context of the Discussion: The mention of these opulences arises from Arjuna's query about how to conceive of and connect with Krishna. In response, Krishna lists specific manifestations of his glory as a way to help Arjuna—and the devotees—understand and relate to the divine presence.
3. Mind's Attachment to Specialties: Human beings are naturally drawn to things that stand out or are exceptional. By revealing certain extraordinary aspects of his divinity, Krishna is providing tangible reference points that can elevate the devotees' minds and feelings towards him. When people encounter greatness or beauty in the world, recognizing it as part of Krishna's divine nature can deepen their spiritual connection.
4. Encouraging Devotion Through Recognition: Krishna emphasizes that all things in the world reflect his opulence in some manner. Therefore, any beautiful or magnificent sight can serve as a reminder to think of him.
The analogy of the paint company illustrates this point: just as the company wishes to be associated with colours, Krishna desires to be recognized in every manifestation of splendour and grandeur.
5. Holistic Spiritual Perspective: Ultimately, the larger teaching here is that every aspect of the world can be viewed as interconnected with the divine. This perspective encourages devotees to elevate their consciousness by seeing Krishna's presence in everything around them—big or small. By doing so, they can cultivate a continual awareness and devotion to God.
In summary, Krishna’s message is about recognizing his presence and opulence in the world, which can help foster a deeper, more personal connection between him and his devotees. This practice of seeing the divine in all forms promotes an abiding devotion and constant remembrance.
Gita 10.41
यद्यद्विभूतिमत्सत्त्वं श्रीमदूर्जितमेव वा |
तत्देवावगच्छ त्वं मम तेजोंऽशसम्भवम् || 41||
yad yad vibhūtimat sattvaṁ śhrīmad ūrjitam eva vā
tat tad evāvagachchha tvaṁ mama tejo ’nśha-sambhavam
In this verse, Shree Krishna explains the relationship between himself and the various manifestations of opulence and greatness seen in the world.
1. Context of the Verse: In this verse, Shree Krishna continues his discussion about his divine manifestations, known as vibhūtis. These manifestations are various displays of grandeur, glory, and excellence throughout the universe. The context is a conversation between Krishna and Arjuna, where Krishna reveals his supreme nature and the ways he permeates the universe.
2. Understanding "Opulent, Beautiful, and Glorious Creations": In the verse, Krishna acknowledges that various forms of beauty, power, and splendour found in the world originate from him. This includes everything we find remarkable—nature’s beauty, the brilliance of a masterpiece, exceptional moral qualities, and any greatness we admire in the world. Krishna wants Arjuna (and us) to recognize that these are not separate from him but are expressions of his divine energy.
3."A Spark of My Splendor": The phrase "a spark of my splendour" signifies that while there may be many glorious creations in the world, they are only a fraction, or a small reflection, of Krishna's infinite opulence. This implies that the magnificence we see around us is limited compared to the boundless glory of God himself.
We can understand this by using the analogy of how sound is produced in a speaker. Electricity flows through the speaker, causing vibrations that create sound waves. However, a person unfamiliar with this process might mistakenly believe that the sound originates from the speaker itself, rather than understanding it is a result of an underlying principle (the conversion of electrical energy into sound).
Gita 10.42
अथवा बहुनैतेन किं ज्ञातेन तवार्जुन |
विष्टभ्याहमिदं कृत्स्नमेकांशेन स्थितो जगत् || 42||
atha vā bahunaitena kiṁ jñātena tavārjuna
viṣhṭabhyāham idaṁ kṛitsnam ekānśhena sthito jagat
In this verse, Shree Krishna emphasizes the vastness of his divine nature by stating that the entirety of creation, including countless universes, exists within just a fraction of his being. He asserts that the material universe constitutes only one-fourth of his total manifestation, while the remaining three-fourths encompass the eternal spiritual realms.
We can understand this concept through the story of Lord Shiv and his sons, Kartikeya and Ganesh.
Once, Sage Narad presented a special fruit to Lord Shiv, which led to a dispute between his two sons, Kartikeya and Ganesh, as both wanted the fruit. To resolve this, Lord Shiv announced a competition: whoever circumambulated the entire universe first would win the fruit.
Kartikeya eagerly set off to physically traverse the universe, taking advantage of his athletic build. In contrast, Ganesh, feeling at a disadvantage due to his plump physique, decided to use his intelligence. Instead of travelling far, he circumambulated Lord Shiv and Parvati three times and then declared that he had completed the task. When Lord Shiv questioned how he could claim to have gone around the universe while still present, Ganesh cleverly replied that since the entire universe exists within his parents, circumambulating them meant he had circled the entire universe. Impressed by Ganesh's clever reasoning, Lord Shiv recognised him as the true winner of the competition.
This analogy reinforces the idea that, like Lord Shiv, Shree Krishna embodies an all-encompassing divinity, where the entire universe resides within him, highlighting the boundless and interconnected nature of spiritual existence.
Summary: JKYog India Online Class- Bhagavad Gita [English]- 29.3.2025
