“As You have declared Yourself, O Supreme Lord, so it is; yet I wish to see Your divine form, O Supreme Person.”
Key Teaching: Arjuna accepts Krishna’s supremacy but seeks his divine form.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga.
Description:
Arjuna accepts Krishna’s selfdeclared supremacy but requests to see his divine form as the Supreme Person. This verse, continuing 11.2, addresses Arjuna’s desire for direct experience (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna inspires, dharma, as Arjuna seeks divine vision, and Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga, as he requests Krishna’s cosmic form, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s reverence (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). Arjuna’s request supports his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 10.15). Arjuna seeks Krishna’s divine form.
Philosophically, this verse addresses the human desire for divine experience, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on his nature (10.15). Arjuna’s eagerness reflects Krishna’s guidance overcoming reluctance. The theme of Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine vision.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Arjuna’s request objectively, emphasizing its devotional clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s vision, where Krishna’s form reveals truth. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine aspiration, aligning with liberation.
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