“Therefore, remember Me at all times and fight; with mind and intellect fixed on Me, you will come to Me.”
Key Teaching: Constant remembrance of Krishna while performing duty leads to him.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Akshara Brahma Yoga.
Description:
Krishna instructs Arjuna to remember him at all times and fight, assuring that with mind and intellect fixed on him, Arjuna will reach him. This verse, continuing 8.6, addresses Arjuna’s need for balancing duty and devotion (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies action with devotion, and Akshara Brahma Yoga, as he emphasizes divine focus, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s hesitation (1.28–46) conflicts with his Kshatriya duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s lack of devotion (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to fight with remembrance, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 8.5). Devotion integrates with duty.
Philosophically, this verse addresses the human challenge of integrating action and spirituality, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on devotion (7.30). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to focus on him. The theme of Akshara Brahma Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine union.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its practical clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s duties, where remembrance ensures union. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with constant devotion, aligning with liberation.
Discover more from Online Gita
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.