tvam ādi-devaḥ puruṣhaḥ purāṇas
tvam asya viśhvasya paraṁ nidhānam
vettāsi vedyaṁ cha paraṁ cha dhāma
tvayā tataṁ viśhvam ananta-rūpa
tvam — you;
ādi-devaḥ — the original Divine God;
puruṣhaḥ — personality;
purāṇaḥ — primeval;
tvam — you;
asya — of (this);
viśhwasya — universe;
param — Supreme;
nidhānam — resting place;
vettā — the knower;
asi — you are;
vedyam — the object of knowledge;
cha — and;
param — Supreme;
cha — and;
dhāma — Abode;
tvayā — by you;
tatam — pervaded;
viśhwam — the universe;
ananta-rūpa — posessor of infinite forms
In this verse, Arjuna is acknowledging Krishna as the ultimate source of everything. When he calls Krishna the 'original Personality,' he means that Krishna is the first and most important being—He is the main character in the story of existence.
Arjuna emphasizes that everything in the universe depends on Krishna. By saying 'You are the only sanctuary,' he means that Krishna is like a safe place where everything finds its support and rest. Imagine a cozy home where you feel safe and protected. That's how Krishna is described here for the universe. Everyone and everything in the world can find their peace and purpose in Krishna.
Now, when Arjuna says, 'You know everything,' it indicates that Krishna is aware of all that happens in the world. He understands everything that exists and is happening, just like a wise teacher knows every detail about the subject they are teaching. Furthermore, Krishna is not just knowledgeable; He is also the ultimate goal of all knowledge. If you learn about the world and want to find out what is truly significant, it leads to understanding Krishna.
Krishna is described as 'above the material modes,' meaning He is not affected or influenced by the imperfect and changing aspects of the world, like fear, greed, or anger. Instead, He exists in a state of peace and purity, beyond the ups and downs of life. Just like water flows but can be calm or turbulent, Krishna remains steady irrespective of the challenges around Him.
The term 'limitless form' suggests that Krishna has no boundaries; He is everywhere, in everything, and can take on many different forms at the same time. It's like imagining a vast ocean that is deep and wide, where all creatures and elements exist within it.
Finally, the idea that 'the whole cosmic manifestation is pervaded by You' stresses that Krishna is the essence of everything. Just as the air surrounds us and is vital for life, Krishna's presence is essential for the universe to function.
In summary, this verse expresses that Krishna is the ultimate source of all existence and knowledge, and He provides safety and understanding to everything in the universe. He transcends the limitations of material life and is forever present in all that exists.