Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 15.4

“Then seek that place from which none return, saying, ‘I take refuge in the Primal Person, whence flowed the ancient stream.’”
Key Teaching: Seek the nonreturning state by taking refuge in the Primal Person.
Theme: Guidance, Jnana Yoga, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Bhakti Yoga.
Description:
Krishna instructs to seek the state from which none return, taking refuge in the Primal Person, the source of creation’s ancient stream. This verse, continuing 15.3, addresses Arjuna’s quest (2.9, 13.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna points to liberation, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes wisdom, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he discusses the ultimate state, and Bhakti Yoga, as he introduces refuge, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s quest (1.28–46) aligns with seeking liberation, contrasting Duryodhana’s attachment (1.3–11). The teaching aligns with Bhakti Yoga (9.34) and Jnana Yoga (13.12), emphasizing divine refuge. Krishna builds on detachment (15.3), pointing to the Purushottama.

Philosophically, the verse defines the ultimate goal, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on the divine (10.20). Arjuna’s path is clarified by seeking refuge in the Supreme. The themes of Moksha Sannyasa Yoga and Bhakti Yoga underscore the Gita’s focus on divine liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s goal, where refuge ensures liberation. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to seek the divine, aligning with liberation.