“I am the goal, sustainer, lord, witness, abode, refuge, friend, origin, dissolution, foundation, treasurehouse, and imperishable seed.”
Key Teaching: Krishna is the ultimate goal and foundation of existence.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that he is the goal, sustainer, lord, witness, abode, refuge, friend, origin, dissolution, foundation, treasurehouse, and imperishable seed. This verse, continuing 9.17, addresses Arjuna’s need for divine clarity (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies his allencompassing role, and Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga, as he emphasizes his supremacy, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s confusion (1.28–46) obscures Krishna’s role, unlike Duryodhana’s ignorance (1.3–11). Krishna urges Arjuna to see him as the ultimate goal for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 9.17). Krishna is existence’s foundation.
Philosophically, this verse addresses the human search for ultimate purpose, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on his pervasion (9.4–5). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to recognize him as all. The theme of Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine totality.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its comprehensive clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s purpose, where Krishna is the goal. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with divine focus, aligning with liberation.