Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 7.21

“Whatever form a devotee seeks with faith, I make their faith in that form steadfast.”
Key Teaching: Krishna strengthens the faith of devotees in their chosen forms.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Jnana Vijnana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that he makes steadfast the faith of devotees who worship any form with sincerity. This verse, continuing 7.20, addresses Arjuna’s need to understand diverse worship (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies divine support, and Jnana Vijnana Yoga, as he emphasizes faith, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s confusion (1.28–46) reflects uncertainty about worship. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s misdirected efforts (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to trust divine support for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 7.20).

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human diversity in worship, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on faith (7.20). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to understand divine support. The theme of Jnana Vijnana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on faithful worship.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its inclusive clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s diverse faiths, where Krishna supports sincerity. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with faithful devotion, aligning with liberation.