Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 8.24

“Fire, light, day, the bright fortnight, the six months of the northern solstice—departing then, knowers of Brahman reach Brahman.”
Key Teaching: Departing in auspicious times leads knowers of Brahman to Brahman.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Akshara Brahma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that those who depart during fire, light, day, the bright fortnight, or the six months of the northern solstice, knowing Brahman, reach Brahman. This verse, building on 8.23, addresses Arjuna’s query about death (8.2, 2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies the path of light, and Akshara Brahma Yoga, as he emphasizes liberation, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s fear of death (1.28–46) prompts this question. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to understand auspicious departure for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 8.23). The path of light leads to liberation.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human concern for the afterlife, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on cosmic paths (8.23). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to know auspicious times. The theme of Akshara Brahma Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on eternal liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its cosmic clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s end, where auspicious timing aids liberation. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with cosmic awareness, aligning with liberation.