Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 11.41

“Whatever I have said rashly, thinking You a friend, addressing You as ‘O Krishna, O Yadava, O friend,’ unaware of Your greatness.”
Key Teaching: Arjuna apologizes for addressing Krishna casually, unaware of his greatness.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga.
Description:
Arjuna apologizes for rashly addressing Krishna as a friend, calling him “Krishna,” “Yadava,” or “friend,” unaware of his divine greatness. This verse, continuing 11.40, addresses Arjuna’s humility before Krishna’s cosmic form (2.9, 11.3). The themes of guidance, as Krishna’s revelation humbles, dharma, as Arjuna seeks forgiveness, and Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga, as he reflects on the form, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s familiarity (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). His apology supports his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 11.40), recognizing Krishna’s divinity.

Philosophically, this verse addresses human ignorance of divine majesty, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on his glory (10.15). Arjuna’s humility reflects Krishna’s guidance overcoming familiarity. The theme of Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine reverence.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Arjuna’s words objectively, emphasizing their humble clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s humility, where Krishna’s greatness corrects. Krishna’s revelation prepares readers for performing duty with divine respect, aligning with liberation.