Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 8.5

“One who, at the time of death, remembers Me alone, leaving the body, attains My state; there is no doubt.”
Key Teaching: Remembering Krishna at death ensures attaining his state.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Akshara Brahma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that one who remembers him alone at the time of death, leaving the body, attains his state without doubt. This verse, continuing 8.4, addresses Arjuna’s query about knowing Krishna at death (8.2, 2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies liberation, and Akshara Brahma Yoga, as he emphasizes divine remembrance, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s fear of death (1.28–46) clouds his duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s material pursuits (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to focus on Krishna for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 7.30). Remembrance ensures liberation.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human fear of mortality, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on divine focus (7.30). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to remember him at death. The theme of Akshara Brahma Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on eternal union.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its assuring clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s end, where divine focus ensures liberation. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine remembrance, aligning with liberation.