“Of horses, I am Uchchaishravas; of elephants, Airavata; of men, I am the king; of weapons, the thunderbolt.”
Key Teaching: Krishna is Uchchaishravas, Airavata, the king, and the thunderbolt.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Vibhuti Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that among horses, he is Uchchaishravas; among elephants, Airavata; among men, the king; and among weapons, the thunderbolt. This verse, continuing 10.26, addresses Arjuna’s need to understand Krishna’s glories (2.9, 10.16). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies divine forms, and Vibhuti Yoga, as he lists his manifestations, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s warrior role (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s misuse of power (1.3–11). Krishna urges Arjuna to see him in regal and powerful forms for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 10.26). Krishna is supreme power.
Philosophically, this verse addresses the human quest for divine authority, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on his pervasion (10.19). Arjuna’s eagerness reflects Krishna’s guidance overcoming reluctance. The theme of Vibhuti Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine manifestations.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its powerful clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s power, where Krishna is the king and thunderbolt. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine strength, aligning with liberation.
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