“Uttering Om, the singlesyllable Brahman, meditating on Me, one who departs, leaving the body, attains the supreme goal.”
Key Teaching: Chanting Om and meditating on Krishna at death leads to the supreme goal.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Akshara Brahma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that one who utters Om, the singlesyllable Brahman, meditates on him, and departs the body attains the supreme goal. This verse, continuing 8.12, addresses Arjuna’s query about death (8.2, 2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies meditative practice, and Akshara Brahma Yoga, as he emphasizes supreme 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 chant Om for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 8.10). Om ensures liberation.
Philosophically, this verse addresses the human quest for liberation at death, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on meditation (8.10). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to focus on Om. The theme of Akshara Brahma Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on supreme liberation.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its sacred clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s final act, where meditation ensures the supreme goal. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine meditation, aligning with liberation.
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