Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 8.10

“At death, with unwavering devotion and yoga power, fixing the lifebreath between the eyebrows, one attains the Supreme Divine.”
Key Teaching: Focused devotion and yoga at death lead to the Supreme Divine.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Akshara Brahma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that at death, with unwavering devotion and yoga power, fixing the lifebreath between the eyebrows, one attains the Supreme Divine. This verse, continuing 8.9, addresses Arjuna’s query about death (8.2, 2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies yogic practice, and Akshara Brahma Yoga, as he emphasizes divine attainment, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s fear of death (1.28–46) clouds his duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s lack of focus (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to practice yoga for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 8.8). Yoga ensures divine union.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human fear of death, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on yoga (6.26, 8.8). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to master lifebreath. The theme of Akshara Brahma Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on yogic liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its practical clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s final moments, where yoga ensures attainment. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with yogic devotion, aligning with liberation.