Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 8.22

“That Supreme Person, in whom all beings abide, pervading all, is attained by unswerving devotion, O Arjuna.”
Key Teaching: Unswerving devotion attains Krishna, the Supreme Person.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Akshara Brahma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that the Supreme Person, in whom all beings abide and who pervades all, is attained through unswerving devotion. This verse, continuing 8.21, addresses Arjuna’s need for divine union (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies devotion, and Akshara Brahma Yoga, as he emphasizes divine attainment, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s wavering devotion (1.28–46) hinders his duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s lack of devotion (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to devote unswervingly for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 8.14). Devotion attains the Supreme.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human need for divine connection, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on devotion (8.14). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to devote unswervingly. The theme of Akshara Brahma Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine union.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its devotional clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s pursuit, where devotion ensures union. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with unswerving devotion, aligning with liberation.