Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 13.23

“The supreme purusha in this body is the witness, approver, supporter, enjoyer, great Lord, and supreme self.”
Key Teaching: Purusha is the supreme self, witnessing and supporting.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Bhakti Yoga.
Description:
Krishna describes the supreme purusha in the body as the witness, approver, supporter, enjoyer, great Lord, and supreme self. This verse, continuing 13.22, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna exalts purusha, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes discernment, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he points to liberation, and Bhakti Yoga, as he implies divinity, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s reverence for Krishna (11.9–46) aligns with this supreme self, contrasting Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). The teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (2.20) and Bhakti Yoga (9.34), emphasizing purusha’s divinity. Krishna builds on rebirth (13.22).

Philosophically, the verse elevates purusha as divine, a theme refined with teachings on the self (2.20). Arjuna’s path is clarified by recognizing the supreme self. The Gita’s focus on Moksha Sannyasa Yoga underscores liberation through knowledge. The verse connects to teachings on Krishna’s presence (15.15).

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s divine core, where purusha witnesses. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to see the supreme self, aligning with moksha. The description resonates with Arjuna’s cosmic vision.