“Know Me as the eternal seed of all beings, O Arjuna; I am the intelligence of the intelligent, the splendor of the splendid.”
Key Teaching: Krishna is the eternal seed, intelligence, and splendor of all.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Jnana Vijnana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that he is the eternal seed of all beings, the intelligence of the intelligent, and the splendor of the splendid. This verse, continuing 7.9, addresses Arjuna’s need for divine clarity (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies divine origin, and Jnana Vijnana Yoga, as he emphasizes omnipresence, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s confusion (1.28–46) obscures divine origins. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s lack of insight (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to see Krishna’s seed for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 7.8).
Philosophically, this verse addresses the human ignorance of divine origin, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on omnipresence (7.8–9). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to recognize divine essence. The theme of Jnana Vijnana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine realization.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its radiant clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s origins, where Krishna is the seed. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine awareness, aligning with liberation.
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