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Bhagwad Gita (English) | Chapter 11 | Verse 22

Chapter 11, Verse 22

The Universal Form

The different forms of Lord Shiva, the solar deities, the elemental gods, the gods of meditation, the universal gods, the twin gods of health, the storm gods, our ancestors, celestial musicians, nature spirits, demons, and perfected beings are all looking at You with amazement.


Verse

रुद्रादित्या वसवो ये च साध्या
विश्वेऽश्िवनौ मरुतश्चोष्मपाश्च।
गन्धर्वयक्षासुरसिद्धसङ्घा
वीक्षन्ते त्वां विस्मिताश्चैव सर्वे।।11.22।।


rudrādityā vasavo ye cha sādhyā
viśhve ’śhvinau marutaśh choṣhmapāśh cha
gandharva-yakṣhāsura-siddha-saṅghā
vīkṣhante tvāṁ vismitāśh chaiva sarve

Meaning of each word

rudra — a form of Lord Shiv;
ādityāḥ —
the Adityas;
vasavaḥ —
the Vasus;
ye —
these;
cha —
and;
sādhyāḥ —
the Sadhyas;
viśhve —
the Vishvadevas;
aśhvinau —
the Ashvini kumars;
marutaḥ —
the Maruts;
cha —
and;
uṣhma-pāḥ —
the ancestors;
cha —
and;
gandharva —
Gandharvas;
yakṣha —
the Yakshas;
asura —
the demons;
siddha —
the perfected beings;
saṅghāḥ —
the assemblies;
vīkṣhante —
are beholding;
tvām —
you;
vismitāḥ —
in wonder;
cha —
and;
eva —
verily;
sarve —
all

Interpretation

In this verse, Arjuna is sharing what he sees and feels as he observes Krishna's incredible universal form. He talks about all the divine beings around him – these are powerful spiritual entities mentioned in Hindu beliefs, like Lord Shiva, who is known for his creative and destructive powers, and the Adityas, who are related to the sun. There are also the Vasus, who are associated with elements like earth and water, and the Sadhyas, who are connected to spiritual practices and meditation. Each of these groups of beings represents different aspects of the universe and divinity.

Arjuna is saying that even these mighty and wise beings are staring at Krishna in wonder. Imagine the most famous and accomplished people you can think of, people who have extraordinary abilities or knowledge – now, picture them being amazed and in awe of something amazing. This shows us just how extraordinary Krishna's form truly is.

It's like if a master artist or a brilliant scientist comes up with something so astonishing that even their peers or those who look up to them can't believe what they've witnessed. The reaction of these powerful entities highlights Krishna’s incredible nature. They are not just casual observers; they are spiritual beings who are wise and powerful in their own right, but they still feel a sense of awe. It shows that no matter how high one's skills and abilities are, there is always something greater to appreciate in the universe.

This verse teaches us that humility in the face of greatness is important. Even the most powerful beings, who are usually revered and respected, recognize that there is an even greater power above them. This acknowledgement of Krishna's universal form emphasizes not only the divine nature of Krishna but also the idea that there are layers of divinity and greatness in the universe. No one ever reaches the point where they should feel that they are the greatest, as there will always be something or someone greater to admire.

In summary, Arjuna is depicting this scene to express just how magnificent and supreme Krishna is, making it clear that his universal form brings together and captivates everyone, no matter how powerful or enlightened they may be.


Other Verses of Chapter 11
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