Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 4.34

Shloka 4.34

“Know this by prostration, inquiry, and service; the wise, who see truth, will teach you knowledge.”

Key Teaching: Knowledge is gained through humility, inquiry, and service to the wise.

Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Jnana Yoga.

Description:
Krishna advises Arjuna to gain knowledge through prostration, inquiry, and service to the wise, who will impart truth. This verse, continuing 4.33, addresses Arjuna’s doubts (3.1–2). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies learning, and Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes acquiring wisdom, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s confusion (2.9) reflects a lack of inquiry. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s arrogance (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to seek wisdom humbly to fulfill his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma and Jnana Yoga (2.47, 4.3).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human need for humble learning, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on devotion (4.3). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to approach the wise. The theme of Jnana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on knowledge through humility.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its practical wisdom. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s learning, where humility ensures knowledge. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with wisdom from the wise, aligning with liberation.