“The seven great sages, the four ancient ones, and the Manus, born of My mind, are the ancestors of this world’s beings.”
Key Teaching: Krishna’s mind is the source of sages, ancients, and Manus.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Vibhuti Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that the seven great sages, four ancient ones, and Manus, born of his mind, are the ancestors of the world’s beings. This verse, continuing 10.5, addresses Arjuna’s need for cosmic origins (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies divine creation, and Vibhuti Yoga, as he reveals his glories, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s ignorance (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s material focus (1.3–11). Krishna urges Arjuna to see his creative power for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 9.8). Krishna’s mind originates creation.
Philosophically, this verse addresses the human ignorance of cosmic origins, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on creation (9.8). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to understand divine ancestry. The theme of Vibhuti Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine glories.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its cosmic clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s origins, where Krishna’s mind creates all. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with cosmic awareness, aligning with liberation.