Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 7.14

“My divine illusion, made of gunas, is hard to surmount; those who take refuge in Me alone cross it.”
Key Teaching: Taking refuge in Krishna overcomes the divine illusion of gunas.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Jnana Vijnana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that his divine illusion (maya), composed of the three gunas, is difficult to overcome, but those who take refuge in him alone can cross it. This verse, building on 7.13, addresses Arjuna’s need for liberation from delusion (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies overcoming maya, and Jnana Vijnana Yoga, as he emphasizes divine refuge, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s delusion (1.28–46) clouds his Kshatriya duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s entrapment in maya (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to seek refuge in Krishna, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 7.13). Maya’s power is surmounted through devotion.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human bondage to illusion, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on transcendence (7.12–13). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to escape maya through refuge. The theme of Jnana Vijnana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its liberating clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s illusions, where refuge in Krishna ensures freedom. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine devotion, aligning with liberation.