Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 4.39

Shloka 4.39

“One with faith, devoted, and sensecontrolled attains knowledge; gaining it, they soon reach supreme peace.”

Key Teaching: Faith, devotion, and sense control lead to knowledge and supreme peace.

Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Jnana Yoga.

Description:
Krishna teaches that one with faith, devotion, and sense control attains knowledge, quickly reaching supreme peace. This verse, concluding 4.34–38, addresses Arjuna’s doubts (3.1–2). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies the path to peace, and Jnana Yoga, as he emphasizes knowledge through faith, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s lack of faith (1.28–46) hinders his peace. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s lack of devotion (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to control senses for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma and Jnana Yoga (2.47, 4.34).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human quest for peace, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on faith and discipline (2.58–61). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to attain knowledge through devotion. The theme of Jnana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on peace through wisdom.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its peaceful promise. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s turmoil, where faith ensures peace. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with devotion, aligning with supreme peace.