Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 15.14

“Becoming the digestive fire in beings’ bodies, united with prana and apana, I digest the four kinds of food.”
Key Teaching: Krishna, as digestive fire, processes food in beings.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Bhakti Yoga.
Description:
Krishna explains that, as the digestive fire (Vaishvanara) in beings’ bodies, united with prana and apana, He digests the four kinds of food. This verse, continuing 15.13, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9, 13.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna reveals His role, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes wisdom, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he points to liberation, and Bhakti Yoga, as he links Himself to life, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s vitality (1.28–46) reflects this divine function, contrasting Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). The teaching aligns with Bhakti Yoga (10.20) and Jnana Yoga (7.4), emphasizing divine presence. Krishna builds on sustenance (15.13), detailing bodily functions.

Philosophically, the verse underscores Krishna’s immanence, a theme refined with teachings on divinity (7.4). Arjuna’s path is clarified by recognizing Krishna in life processes. The themes of Moksha Sannyasa Yoga and Bhakti Yoga underscore the Gita’s focus on divine pervasion.

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s vitality, where Krishna sustains functions. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to see divine presence, aligning with liberation.