Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 9.23

“Even those who worship other gods with faith, they too worship Me, O Arjuna, though not in the right way.”
Key Teaching: Worship of other gods indirectly worships Krishna, but imperfectly.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that even those who worship other gods with faith indirectly worship him, though not correctly. This verse, continuing 9.22, addresses Arjuna’s need to understand true worship (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies proper worship, and Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga, as he emphasizes his supremacy, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s confusion about worship (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s misdirected efforts (1.3–11). Krishna urges Arjuna to focus on him for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 7.21–22). Indirect worship is imperfect.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human diversity in worship, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on divine unity (7.21–22). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to worship correctly. The theme of Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on proper devotion.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its corrective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s worship, where Krishna is the true goal. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with proper devotion, aligning with liberation.