“Worshippers of gods go to gods, of ancestors to ancestors, of spirits to spirits, but My devotees come to Me.”
Key Teaching: Worship determines destiny; Krishna’s devotees reach him.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that worshippers of gods, ancestors, or spirits reach them, but his devotees reach him. This verse, continuing 9.24, addresses Arjuna’s need to prioritize devotion (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies worship’s outcomes, and Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga, as he emphasizes his supremacy, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s misdirected attachments (1.28–46) contrast with Duryodhana’s material pursuits (1.3–11). Krishna urges Arjuna to devote to him for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 9.24). Devotion to Krishna ensures liberation.
Philosophically, this verse addresses the human diversity in worship, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on outcomes (7.23). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to choose him. The theme of Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on eternal devotion.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its discerning clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s worship, where devotion to Krishna ensures union. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with supreme devotion, aligning with liberation.