Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 4.35

Shloka 4.35

“Knowing this, you will not fall into delusion again, O Arjuna, seeing all beings in the self and in Me.”

Key Teaching: True knowledge prevents delusion, seeing all beings in the self and Krishna.

Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Jnana Yoga.

Description:
Krishna teaches that true knowledge prevents delusion, enabling Arjuna to see all beings in the self and in him. This verse, continuing 4.34, addresses Arjuna’s doubts (3.1–2). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies spiritual vision, and Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes liberating knowledge, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s delusion (1.28–46) clouds his duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s deluded ambition (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to gain knowledge to fulfill his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma and Jnana Yoga (2.47, 4.19).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human propensity for delusion, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on unity (2.12–25). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to see divine unity. The theme of Jnana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on knowledge dispelling delusion.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its unifying clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s illusions, where knowledge ensures clarity. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with spiritual vision, aligning with liberation.