Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 15.13

“Entering the earth, I sustain all beings with My energy; becoming the sapid moon, I nourish all plants.”
Key Teaching: Krishna sustains beings and nourishes plants as the moon’s sap.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Bhakti Yoga.
Description:
Krishna states that He enters the earth to sustain beings with His energy and, as the sapid moon, nourishes all plants. This verse, continuing 15.12, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9, 13.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna reveals His sustenance, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes wisdom, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he points to liberation, and Bhakti Yoga, as he links Himself to creation, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s reliance on Krishna (1.28–46) reflects this divine sustenance, contrasting Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). The teaching aligns with Bhakti Yoga (10.20) and Jnana Yoga (7.4), emphasizing divine support. Krishna builds on His cosmic role (15.12), detailing sustenance.

Philosophically, the verse highlights Krishna’s role in creation, a theme refined with teachings on divinity (7.4). Arjuna’s path is clarified by recognizing Krishna’s energy. The themes of Moksha Sannyasa Yoga and Bhakti Yoga underscore the Gita’s focus on divine sustenance.

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s sustenance, where Krishna nourishes all. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to see divine support, aligning with liberation.