Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 9.30

“Even if a great sinner worships Me with undivided devotion, they should be considered righteous, for they are rightly resolved.”
Key Teaching: Even sinners, with true devotion, are righteous.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that even a great sinner who worships him with undivided devotion should be considered righteous, as they are rightly resolved. This verse, continuing 9.29, addresses Arjuna’s need for divine grace (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies universal redemption, and Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga, as he emphasizes devotion’s power, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s guilt (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s unrepentant sin (1.3–11). Krishna urges Arjuna to trust devotion’s redemption for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 9.29). Devotion redeems sinners.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human fear of unworthiness, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on grace (9.29). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to embrace devotion’s righteousness. The theme of Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on redemptive devotion.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its inclusive clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s redemption, where devotion ensures righteousness. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with redemptive devotion, aligning with liberation.