“Thus, I have taught you the most secret wisdom; reflect on it fully, then do as you wish.”
Key Teaching: Krishna imparts secret wisdom, leaving Arjuna to choose.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga.
Description:
Krishna declares that he has taught the most secret wisdom, urging Arjuna to reflect and act as he wishes. This verse, continuing 18.62, addresses Arjuna’s inquiry (2.9, 13.1, 18.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna summarizes his teaching, dharma, as he supports Arjuna’s role, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he discusses liberation, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes wisdom, and Bhakti Yoga, as he implies devotion, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s reflection (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s impulsiveness (1.3–11). This teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (13.12) and Bhakti Yoga (9.34), emphasizing reflection. Krishna builds on teachings about wisdom (18.50), granting autonomy.
Philosophically, this verse marks the Gita’s culmination, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on choice (2.47). Arjuna’s path is clarified by reflecting on wisdom. The themes of Moksha Sannyasa Yoga and Jnana Yoga underscore the Gita’s focus on informed action for liberation.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s words objectively, emphasizing their culminating clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s choice, where wisdom guides action. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to perform duties with divine reflection, aligning with liberation.
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