“He who hates no being, who is friendly and compassionate, free from attachment and ego, balanced in pleasure and pain, and forgiving,”
Key Teaching: Krishna describes the devotee as nonhating, compassionate, and balanced.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Bhakti Yoga.
Description:
Krishna describes a devotee as one who hates no being, is friendly, compassionate, free from attachment and ego, balanced in pleasure and pain, and forgiving. This verse, continuing 12.12, addresses Arjuna’s spiritual ideal (2.9, 12.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna defines devotee qualities, dharma, as he supports Arjuna’s duty, and Bhakti Yoga, as he outlines devotional traits, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s compassion (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s enmity (1.3–11). These qualities support Arjuna’s Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47) and Bhakti Yoga (12.12), shaping his character.
Philosophically, this verse addresses the ideal devotee’s nature, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on equanimity (6.7). Arjuna’s path is clarified by Krishna’s guidance on compassionate devotion. The theme of Bhakti Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on loving devotion for liberation.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s words objectively, emphasizing their virtuous clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s compassion, where Krishna’s devotee embodies love. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine compassion, aligning with liberation.