Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 11.16

“I see You with countless forms, many arms, bellies, mouths, eyes, boundless on all sides; I see no end, middle, or beginning, O Lord of all.”
Key Teaching: Arjuna sees Krishna’s boundless, infinite cosmic form.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga.
Description:
Arjuna describes Krishna’s cosmic form as having countless forms, arms, bellies, mouths, eyes, boundless, with no end, middle, or beginning. This verse, continuing 11.15, addresses Arjuna’s vision (2.9, 11.3). The themes of guidance, as Krishna reveals, dharma, as Arjuna describes infinity, and Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga, as he details the form, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s awe (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). The boundless vision supports Arjuna’s Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 11.15). Krishna’s form is infinite.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human awe of divine infinity, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on his boundlessness (10.40). Arjuna’s vision reflects Krishna’s guidance overcoming reluctance. The theme of Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine vastness.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Arjuna’s words objectively, emphasizing their infinite clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s vastness, where Krishna’s form is boundless. Krishna’s revelation prepares readers for performing duty with divine awe, aligning with liberation.