Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 2.46

Shloka 2.46

“As a reservoir is of little use when water flows everywhere, so the Vedas are of little use to one who knows the Supreme.”
Key Teaching: Knowledge of the Supreme surpasses the need for Vedic rituals.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Spirituality.
Description: Krishna compares Vedic rituals to a reservoir’s limited use when water is abundant, stating that one who knows the Supreme transcends the Vedas’ ritualistic guidance. This verse continues 2.45, urging Arjuna to seek higher wisdom over rituals (2.42–44). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies spiritual duty, and spirituality, as he emphasizes the Supreme, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s ritual concerns (1.42–44) reflect attachment to material outcomes. Krishna’s analogy contrasts with Duryodhana’s material focus (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to pursue spiritual knowledge to fulfill his Kshatriya duty without ritualistic attachment. This shifts his focus to the eternal self.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human reliance on rituals for material gains, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on selfless action (2.47). Arjuna’s concerns complicate his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to prioritize spiritual wisdom. The theme of spirituality underscores the Gita’s focus on the Supreme over temporary rituals.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, highlighting its metaphorical clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s pursuits, where true knowledge surpasses limited practices. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with spiritual insight, transcending ritualistic constraints.