Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 9.3

“Those without faith in this knowledge, O Arjuna, not reaching Me, return to the cycle of birth and death.”
Key Teaching: Lack of faith in Krishna’s knowledge leads to rebirth.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that those without faith in his knowledge, failing to reach him, return to the cycle of birth and death. This verse, continuing 9.2, addresses Arjuna’s need for faith (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies faith’s role, and Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga, as he emphasizes liberation, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s doubts (1.28–46) risk faithlessness, unlike Duryodhana’s rejection (1.3–11). Krishna urges Arjuna to embrace faith for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 9.2). Faithlessness traps in rebirth.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human lack of faith, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on devotion (7.17). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to foster faith. The theme of Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on faithful liberation.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its cautionary clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s cycles, where faith ensures liberation. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with faithful wisdom, aligning with liberation.