Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 11.46

“I wish to see You as before, with crown, mace, and disc, in Your fourarmed form; assume that form, O thousandarmed universal Lord.”
Key Teaching: Arjuna requests Krishna’s fourarmed form over the cosmic form.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga.
Description:
Arjuna wishes to see Krishna as before, with crown, mace, and disc in his fourarmed form, urging the thousandarmed universal Lord to assume it. This verse, continuing 11.45, addresses Arjuna’s desire for familiarity (2.9, 11.3). The themes of guidance, as Krishna’s form impacts, dharma, as Arjuna seeks comfort, and Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga, as he requests a change, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s fear (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). His request supports his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 11.45), preferring Krishna’s familiar form.

Philosophically, this verse addresses human need for accessible divinity, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on his forms (10.19). Arjuna’s request reflects Krishna’s guidance addressing fear. The theme of Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine accessibility.

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