Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 11.29

“As moths rush into a blazing fire to their destruction, so do these worlds rush into Your mouths to their doom.”
Key Teaching: Worlds rush to destruction in Krishna’s cosmic mouths like moths to fire.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga.
Description:
Arjuna compares the worlds rushing into Krishna’s cosmic mouths to moths drawn to a blazing fire, meeting their doom. This verse, continuing 11.28, addresses Arjuna’s vision of Krishna’s destructive form (2.9, 11.3). The themes of guidance, as Krishna reveals his power, dharma, as Arjuna sees inevitable fate, and Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga, as he describes the terrifying form, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s fear of war’s destruction (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s aggression (1.3–11). The vision of doom supports Arjuna’s Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 11.28), emphasizing Krishna’s role as destroyer.

Philosophically, this verse addresses human fear of mortality, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on his role as death (10.34). Arjuna’s vision reflects Krishna’s guidance overcoming reluctance, showing destruction’s inevitability. The theme of Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine power.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Arjuna’s words objectively, emphasizing their fatalistic clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s impermanence, where Krishna’s form consumes all. Krishna’s revelation prepares readers for performing duty with acceptance of divine will, aligning with liberation.