Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 7.16

“Four types of virtuous men worship Me, O Arjuna: the distressed, the knowledgeseeker, the wealthseeker, and the wise.”
Key Teaching: Four types of virtuous devotees worship Krishna.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Jnana Vijnana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that four types of virtuous men worship him: the distressed, the knowledgeseeker, the wealthseeker, and the wise. This verse, continuing 7.15, addresses Arjuna’s need for understanding devotion (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies virtuous devotion, and Jnana Vijnana Yoga, as he emphasizes worship, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s distress (1.28–46) aligns with the distressed devotee. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s lack of devotion (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to worship Krishna for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 7.14).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human motivations for devotion, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on worship (7.14). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to understand virtuous devotion. The theme of Jnana Vijnana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine worship.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its inclusive clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s motivations, where virtuous worship leads to Krishna. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with devotion, aligning with liberation.