“Some, with heads crushed, are seen stuck between Your teeth; they rush into Your fearful mouths with terrible tusks.”
Key Teaching: Warriors are crushed in Krishna’s terrifying mouths.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga.
Description:
Arjuna sees warriors with crushed heads stuck between Krishna’s teeth, rushing into his fearful mouths with terrible tusks. This verse, continuing 11.26, addresses Arjuna’s vision (2.9, 11.3). The themes of guidance, as Krishna reveals, dharma, as Arjuna sees destruction, and Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga, as he details the terrifying form, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s fear of war (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s aggression (1.3–11). The destructive vision supports Arjuna’s Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 11.26). Krishna’s form embodies destruction.
Philosophically, this verse addresses the human fear of death’s violence, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on his role as death (10.34). Arjuna’s vision reflects Krishna’s guidance overcoming reluctance. The theme of Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine power.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Arjuna’s words objectively, emphasizing their grim clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s destruction, where Krishna’s form consumes. Krishna’s revelation prepares readers for performing duty with divine acceptance, aligning with liberation.