Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 9.13

“But great souls, of divine nature, worship Me with unwavering minds, knowing Me as the eternal origin of beings.”
Key Teaching: Great souls worship Krishna, knowing him as the eternal origin.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that great souls, of divine nature, worship him with unwavering minds, knowing him as the eternal origin of beings. This verse, continuing 9.12, addresses Arjuna’s need for divine devotion (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies divine worship, and Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga, as he emphasizes eternal origin, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s wavering devotion (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s lack of divinity (1.3–11). Krishna urges Arjuna to emulate great souls for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 7.18). Divine nature ensures worship.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human potential for divine devotion, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on great souls (7.18). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to worship unwaveringly. The theme of Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine worship.

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