Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 11.40

“Salutations to You from all sides, O infinite power, infinite arms; You encompass all, therefore You are all.”
Key Teaching: Arjuna offers salutations to Krishna’s allencompassing infinite form.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga.
Description:
Arjuna offers salutations to Krishna from all sides, acknowledging his infinite power and arms, stating that he encompasses and is all. This verse, continuing 11.39, addresses Arjuna’s awe of Krishna’s cosmic form (2.9, 11.3). The themes of guidance, as Krishna inspires, dharma, as Arjuna expresses devotion, and Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga, as he praises the form, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s reverence (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). His salutations support his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 11.39), affirming Krishna’s omnipresence.

Philosophically, this verse addresses human recognition of divine totality, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on his pervasion (10.39). Arjuna’s devotion reflects Krishna’s guidance overcoming fear. The theme of Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine unity.

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