Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 7.26

“I know all beings—past, present, and future—but no one knows Me, O Arjuna.”
Key Teaching: Krishna knows all beings, but none fully know him.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Jnana Vijnana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that he knows all beings—past, present, and future—but no one fully knows him. This verse, continuing 7.25, addresses Arjuna’s need for divine omniscience (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies his supreme knowledge, and Jnana Vijnana Yoga, as he emphasizes divine mystery, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s limited understanding (1.28–46) contrasts with Krishna’s omniscience, unlike Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). Krishna urges Arjuna to trust his knowledge for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 7.25). Omniscience sets Krishna apart.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human limitation in knowing the divine, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on his supremacy (7.7). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to trust divine knowledge. The theme of Jnana Vijnana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine realization.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its omniscient clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s unknowable divine, where trust in Krishna prevails. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine reliance, aligning with liberation.