Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 11.25

“Seeing Your mouths with terrible tusks, like the fires of cosmic dissolution, I lose my sense of direction and find no refuge; be gracious, O Lord of gods.”
Key Teaching: Krishna’s terrifying form disorients Arjuna, seeking grace.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga.
Description:
Arjuna describes Krishna’s mouths with terrible tusks, like fires of cosmic dissolution, causing him to lose direction and seek refuge, pleading for grace. This verse, continuing 11.24, addresses Arjuna’s vision (2.9, 11.3). The themes of guidance, as Krishna reveals, dharma, as Arjuna seeks mercy, and Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga, as he details the terrifying form, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s fear (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). The terrifying vision challenges Arjuna’s Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 11.24). Arjuna seeks Krishna’s grace.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human need for divine mercy, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on his compassion (10.11). Arjuna’s disorientation reflects Krishna’s guidance pushing past reluctance. The theme of Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine awe.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Arjuna’s words objectively, emphasizing their desperate clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s chaos, where Krishna’s form prompts refuge. Krishna’s revelation prepares readers for performing duty with divine surrender, aligning with liberation.