anantaśh chāsmi nāgānāṁ varuṇo yādasām aham
pitṝīṇām aryamā chāsmi yamaḥ sanyamatām aham
anantaḥ — Anant;
cha — and;
asmi — I am;
nāgānām — amongst snakes;
varuṇaḥ — the celestial god of the ocean;
yādasām — amongst aquatics;
aham — I;
pitṝīṇām — amongst the departed ancestors;
aryamā — Aryama;
cha — and;
asmi — am;
yamaḥ — the celestial god of death;
sanyamatām — amongst dispensers of law;
aham — I
In this verse, Krishna is explaining his presence in key aspects of the universe. Let's break it down:
1. **Ananta among Naga snakes**: Ananta is a type of serpent that is important in Hindu mythology. Imagine Ananta as a very special and mighty snake that represents strength and infinity. When Krishna says he is Ananta, he is saying that he embodies the qualities of this powerful creature, showing that he is also vast and limitless.
2. **Varuna among water beings**: Varuna is a god associated with water, especially the oceans. Think of him like a king of the sea. When Krishna identifies himself as Varuna, it signifies that he controls water and everything in it. So, in every drop of water, in every wave of the ocean, Krishna's presence can be felt.
3. **Aryama among ancestors**: Aryama is a deity that represents respect and care for our forebearers—our ancestors who have passed away. He oversees a realm where these departed souls can find peace. By identifying as Aryama, Krishna highlights the connection between the living and their respectful remembrance of those who have come before us. It reminds us to honor our ancestors and learn from their experiences.
4. **Yama among law enforcers**: Yama is known as the god of death and the one who ensures justice in the afterlife. After people die, they are taken to Yama, who assesses their lives and decides how they should be treated in the next realm based on their deeds. By identifying as Yama, Krishna emphasizes the importance of moral living and justice. It serves as a reminder that our actions have consequences, and that we should strive to live righteously.
So, overall, Krishna is explaining that he embodies significant beings in our world and beyond. He shows that in various forms—whether it's the cycles of life and death, the mighty oceans, or the respect we owe to our ancestors—he is present and powerful. This verse teaches us about the governing principles of life, such as the importance of remembering the past, the vastness of nature, and the necessity of justice.