Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 8.16

“All worlds, up to Brahma’s, are subject to return, O Arjuna; but reaching Me, there is no rebirth.”
Key Teaching: All worlds lead to rebirth, but attaining Krishna ends it.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Akshara Brahma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that all worlds, including Brahma’s, are subject to rebirth, but those who reach him escape it. This verse, continuing 8.15, addresses Arjuna’s concern for liberation (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies eternal freedom, and Akshara Brahma Yoga, as he emphasizes nonreturn, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s fear of loss (1.28–46) ties to cyclic existence. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s material pursuits (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to aim for Krishna for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 8.15). Krishna’s abode is final.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human fear of cyclic rebirth, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on liberation (8.15). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to escape rebirth. The theme of Akshara Brahma Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on eternal liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its definitive clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s cycles, where Krishna offers permanence. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with eternal aim, aligning with liberation.