Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 11.17

“I see You with crowns, maces, discs, shining everywhere, blazing like fire and sun, immeasurable, hard to behold.”
Key Teaching: Krishna’s cosmic form is radiant, armed, and immeasurable.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga.
Description:
Arjuna describes Krishna’s cosmic form with crowns, maces, discs, shining everywhere, blazing like fire and sun, immeasurable, and hard to behold. This verse, continuing 11.16, addresses Arjuna’s vision (2.9, 11.3). The themes of guidance, as Krishna reveals, dharma, as Arjuna describes radiance, 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 radiant vision supports Arjuna’s Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 11.16). Krishna’s form is blazingly divine.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human awe of divine radiance, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on his splendor (10.41). Arjuna’s vision reflects Krishna’s guidance overcoming reluctance. The theme of Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine brilliance.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Arjuna’s words objectively, emphasizing their radiant clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s brilliance, where Krishna’s form blazes. Krishna’s revelation prepares readers for performing duty with divine reverence, aligning with liberation.