Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 11.49

“Be not afraid or bewildered seeing this terrible form of Mine; free from fear and gladhearted, behold again My familiar form.”
Key Teaching: Krishna reassures Arjuna to not fear his cosmic form and see his familiar form.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna reassures Arjuna not to be afraid or bewildered by his terrible cosmic form, urging him to be free from fear and gladhearted while beholding his familiar form again. This verse, continuing 11.48, addresses Arjuna’s fear and request for Krishna’s gentler form (2.9, 11.45–46). The themes of guidance, as Krishna comforts, dharma, as he supports Arjuna’s duty, and Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga, as he shifts from cosmic to familiar form, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s fear of the cosmic form (1.28–46, 11.45) contrasts with Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). Krishna’s reassurance strengthens Arjuna’s Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 11.46), easing his fear to act.

Philosophically, this verse addresses human fear of divine power, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on his compassion (10.11). Arjuna’s relief reflects Krishna’s guidance overcoming terror. The theme of Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine accessibility, showing Krishna’s ability to adapt his form to Arjuna’s needs.

Sanjaya’s narration, framing Krishna’s words, provides objective clarity, emphasizing their comforting tone. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s reassurance, where Krishna’s familiar form restores peace. Krishna’s act prepares readers for performing duty with divine comfort, aligning with liberation through trust in the divine.