dyūtaṁ chhalayatām asmi tejas tejasvinām aham
jayo ’smi vyavasāyo ’smi sattvaṁ sattvavatām aham
dyūtam — gambling;
chhalayatām — of all cheats;
asmi — I am;
tejaḥ — the splendor;
tejasvinām — of the splendid;
aham — I;
jayaḥ — victory;
asmi — I am;
vyavasāyaḥ — firm resolve;
asmi — I am;
sattvam — virtue;
sattva-vatām — of the virtuous;
aham — I
In this verse from the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna is explaining his presence in various aspects of life. He talks about different kinds of people and situations in the world. When he says, 'I am also the gambling of cheats,' it means that he acknowledges that gambling, which can often involve cheating and tricks, is a part of human behavior. It's a mischievous aspect that some people might engage in. However, Krishna isn't promoting cheating or gambling; he is simply stating that he embodies everything, even things that might seem negative or wrong.
Next, when he refers to himself as 'the splendor of the splendid,' he acknowledges the beauty and greatness found in remarkable things or people. For example, think of a shining star in the night sky; it represents beauty and brilliance. Krishna is saying that he is the essence of that brightness and magnificence.
When he says, 'I am victory,' he emphasizes that true success and triumph come from him. Victory is a common goal for everyone, whether in sports, academics, or personal challenges. Krishna reminds us that behind all victories, there is a divine force that helps us achieve our goals. Similarly, he mentions that he is 'the strength of the strong,' meaning that even the strongest individuals draw their strength from him and, ultimately, from a higher source.
In daily life, we encounter reflections of these ideas. For example, when someone wins an important game, they often express gratitude not just for their hard work but also to the support and guidance from others. Krishna is saying that everyone, no matter how strong or capable, has a connection to something greater.
Overall, this verse teaches us that Krishna, as the Supreme Being, is not limited to just good or bad; he encompasses all experiences and attributes in life. This understanding encourages us to see the divine in every situation, whether it's honorable or challenging, reminding us that everything in the universe is connected through a larger reality.