“I am the enjoyer and lord of all sacrifices, but those who do not know Me truly fall.”
Key Teaching: Krishna is the enjoyer of sacrifices; ignorance of him leads to failure.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that he is the enjoyer and lord of all sacrifices, but those who do not know him truly fall. This verse, continuing 9.23, addresses Arjuna’s need for true worship (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies divine lordship, and Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga, as he emphasizes his supremacy, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s ritualistic confusion (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). Krishna urges Arjuna to recognize him as the lord of sacrifices for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 9.23). Ignorance leads to spiritual failure.
Philosophically, this verse addresses the human ignorance of divine lordship, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on worship (9.23). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to know him truly. The theme of Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine recognition.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its cautionary clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s sacrifices, where knowing Krishna ensures success. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine awareness, aligning with liberation.