“Those who know Me as the essence of beings, divinities, and sacrifice, with steadfast mind, know Me even at death.”
Key Teaching: Knowing Krishna as the essence ensures realization at death.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Jnana Vijnana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that those who know him as the essence of beings, divinities, and sacrifice, with a steadfast mind, know him even at the time of death. This verse, concluding Chapter 7, addresses Arjuna’s need for eternal knowledge (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies divine essence, and Jnana Vijnana Yoga, as he emphasizes steadfast realization, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s fear of loss (1.28–46) hinders his duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to know Krishna’s essence for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 7.29).
Philosophically, this verse addresses the human quest for eternal knowledge, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on divine essence (7.29). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to know him at death. The theme of Jnana Vijnana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on ultimate realization.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its eternal clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s end, where steadfast knowledge ensures union. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine realization, aligning with liberation.