“Others, ignorant of this, worship other gods; they too reach Me, though by indirect paths.”
Key Teaching: Even those worshipping other gods reach Krishna indirectly.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Bhakti Yoga.
Description:
Krishna explains that those ignorant of His supreme nature, worshipping other gods, still reach Him, though indirectly. This verse, continuing 15.24, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9, 13.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna clarifies worship, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes wisdom, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he points to liberation, and Bhakti Yoga, as he includes all devotion, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s exclusive devotion (1.28–46) contrasts with others’ practices, unlike Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). The teaching aligns with Bhakti Yoga (9.23) and Jnana Yoga (13.12), emphasizing universal liberation. Krishna builds on His supremacy (15.24), including indirect paths.
Philosophically, the verse broadens devotion’s scope, a theme refined with teachings on Bhakti (9.23). Arjuna’s path is clarified by focusing on Krishna, though others reach Him indirectly. The themes of Moksha Sannyasa Yoga and Bhakti Yoga underscore the Gita’s inclusive liberation.
Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s paths, where all devotion leads to Krishna. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to embrace universal devotion, aligning with liberation.
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