Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 18.70

“And he who studies this sacred dialogue of ours, by him I am worshipped through the sacrifice of knowledge, so I declare.”
Key Teaching: Studying the Gita is worship through the sacrifice of knowledge.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga.
Description:
Krishna declares that one who studies their sacred dialogue worships Him through the sacrifice of knowledge. This verse, continuing 18.69, addresses Arjuna’s inquiry (2.9, 13.1, 18.1). The themes of guidance, as Krishna praises study, dharma, as he supports Arjuna’s role, Moksha Sannyasa Yoga, as he discusses liberation, Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes knowledge, and Bhakti Yoga, as he links study to worship, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s inquiry (1.28–46) aligns with this study, contrasting Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). This teaching aligns with Jnana Yoga (13.12) and Bhakti Yoga (9.34), equating study with worship. Krishna builds on teachings about knowledge (18.63), linking it to devotion.

Philosophically, this verse elevates study as worship, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on Jnana (13.12). Arjuna’s path is clarified by studying the Gita. The themes of Moksha Sannyasa Yoga and Bhakti Yoga underscore the Gita’s focus on knowledge as devotion.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s words objectively, emphasizing their reverent clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s learning, where study is worship. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers to perform duties with divine knowledge, aligning with liberation.