Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 4.2

Shloka 4.2

“Passed through succession, the royal sages knew this yoga; over time, it was lost, O Arjuna.”

Key Teaching: Yoga, known by royal sages, was lost over time.

Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Jnana Yoga.

Description:
Krishna explains that this yoga, passed through royal sages, was lost over time due to broken tradition. This verse, continuing 4.1, addresses Arjuna’s doubts (3.1–2). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies spiritual heritage, and Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes knowledge’s loss, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s ignorance (2.9) reflects the loss of this wisdom. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s material focus (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to revive this knowledge to fulfill his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma and Jnana Yoga (2.47).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human loss of spiritual wisdom, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on reviving knowledge. Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to restore understanding. The theme of Jnana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on knowledge’s role in duty.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its historical context. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s forgotten truths, where wisdom must be revived. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with renewed knowledge, aligning with spiritual heritage.