Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 13.16

“Outside and inside beings, inanimate and animate; subtle, hard to know; far, yet near.”
Key Teaching: Brahman is within and beyond all, subtle yet accessible.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga.
Description:
Krishna describes Brahman as existing outside and inside beings, inanimate and animate, subtle yet hard to know, far yet near. This verse, continuing 13.15, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna details Brahman, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes knowledge, and Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he points to liberation, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s vision (11.9–46) reflects Brahman’s omnipresence, contrasting Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (7.7), emphasizing Brahman’s subtlety, and builds on transcendence (13.15). Krishna highlights Brahman’s paradoxical nature.

Philosophically, the verse portrays Brahman’s allpervasiveness, a theme refined with teachings on divinity (7.7). Arjuna’s path is clarified by seeking Brahman’s presence. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga underscores liberation through knowledge. The verse connects to teachings on omnipresence (11.9).

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s divine presence, where Brahman is near yet subtle. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to seek Brahman, aligning with moksha. The description resonates with Arjuna’s cosmic understanding.