“They, weakening the body’s elements, also torment Me, the dweller in the body; know them as demonic in resolve.”
Key Teaching: Unscriptural austerities harm the body and Krishna within.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Bhakti Yoga.
Description:
Krishna warns that those weakening the body’s elements through unscriptural austerities also torment Him, the indweller, and are demonic in resolve. This verse, continuing 17.5, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9, 13.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna critiques harmful acts, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes discernment, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he warns of bondage, and Bhakti Yoga, as he highlights His presence, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Duryodhana’s destructive acts (1.3–11) align with this, contrasting Arjuna’s devotion (1.28–46). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (13.9) and Bhakti Yoga (15.15), emphasizing divine presence. Krishna builds on unscriptural austerities (17.5).
Philosophically, the verse underscores Krishna’s indwelling, a theme refined with teachings on divine presence (15.15). Arjuna’s path is clarified by respecting the body’s sanctity. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga warns against demonic acts. The verse connects to teachings on reverence (9.34).
Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s sanctity, where harmful acts offend Krishna. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to act reverently, aligning with moksha. The warning resonates with Arjuna’s spiritual duty.
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