“Controlling all senses, evenminded, devoted to the welfare of all beings, they too attain Me.”
Key Teaching: Unmanifest worshipers with sense control and universal welfare attain Krishna.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Bhakti Yoga.
Description:
Krishna states that those who worship the unmanifest, controlling all senses, evenminded, and devoted to the welfare of all beings, also attain him. This verse, continuing 12.3, addresses Arjuna’s question about worship (2.9, 12.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna elaborates, dharma, as he defines spiritual qualities, and Bhakti Yoga, as he includes disciplined devotees, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s confusion (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s selfishness (1.3–11). Krishna’s description supports Arjuna’s Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47) and Bhakti Yoga (12.3), emphasizing disciplined devotion.
Philosophically, this verse addresses the discipline required for impersonal worship, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on selfcontrol (6.16). Arjuna’s clarity is enhanced by Krishna’s guidance on spiritual qualities. The theme of Bhakti Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on disciplined devotion for liberation.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s words objectively, emphasizing their disciplined clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s discipline, where Krishna rewards controlled devotion. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine discipline, aligning with liberation.
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