Next Shlok Previous Shlok
Bhagwad Gita (English) | Chapter 11 | Verse 42

Chapter 11, Verse 42

The Universal Form

In whatever way I may have insulted You for the sake of fun, while at play, reposing, sitting, or at meals, when alone (with You), O Krishna, or in company, that I implore You, immeasurable one, to forgive.


Verse

यच्चावहासार्थमसत्कृतोऽसि
विहारशय्यासनभोजनेषु।
एकोऽथवाप्यच्युत तत्समक्षं
तत्क्षामये त्वामहमप्रमेयम्।।11.42।।


yach chāvahāsārtham asat-kṛito ’si
vihāra-śhayyāsana-bhojaneṣhu
eko ’tha vāpy achyuta tat-samakṣhaṁ
tat kṣhāmaye tvām aham aprameyam

Meaning of each word

yat — whatever;
cha —
also;
avahāsa-artham —
humorously;
asat-kṛitaḥ —
disrespectfully;
asi —
you were;
vihāra —
while at play;
śhayyā —
while resting;
āsana —
while sitting;
bhojaneṣhu —
while eating;
ekaḥ —
(when) alone;
athavā —
or;
api —
even;
achyuta —
Krishna, the infallible one;
tat-samakṣham —
before others;
tat —
all that;
kṣhāmaye —
beg for forgiveness;
tvām —
from you;
aham —
I;
aprameyam —
immeasurable

Interpretation

In this verse, Arjuna is talking to Krishna and asking for forgiveness. He reflects on how, while they have shared many moments together—like playing games, resting, sitting down, or eating meals—he may have disrespected Krishna. This disrespect wasn't intentional, but sometimes, during those friendly and casual moments, he might have forgotten about Krishna's true divine nature.

Arjuna recognizes that he might have joked around or behaved lightly, thinking of Krishna just as a friend and not fully appreciating how significant and powerful Krishna really is. He feels regret for any humorous comments or casual behavior that might have come off as disrespectful.

By using the phrase 'immeasurable one,' Arjuna acknowledges Krishna's greatness. He sees Krishna as someone who is far beyond the understanding of any human and asks Him to forgive any unintentional wrongdoings.

This verse beautifully captures how even in close friendships, it’s easy to forget the true nature of the other person, especially when one of them is divine. Arjuna’s request for forgiveness shows his humility and recognition of Krishna’s greatness, reminding us that it’s important to respect and acknowledge the significant qualities of the people we are close to.

Overall, it highlights the special bond between Arjuna and Krishna. Despite Arjuna's playful attitudes or moments of casualness, Krishna has always treated him with kindness, showing that true friendships can withstand misunderstandings and that love and respect are key components in any relationship.


Other Verses of Chapter 11
Download as Image