11-1

Arjuna said: Out of your grace, You have revealed to me the most confidential teachings about the Supreme Spirit, and with these words, You have dispelled my delusion.

Explanation: In this verse, Arjuna expresses gratitude to Krishna for the spiritual teachings that have dispelled Arjuna's ignorance and delusions. Arjuna asks Krishna to reveal to him the most confidential teaching about the Supreme Spirit. Arjuna acknowledges that the knowledge of spiritual reality he has received is profound and has revealed the true essence of life.

11-2

I have heard from You about the origin and dissolution of all beings, O lotus-eyed one (Krishna), and I have also heard about Your unending greatness.

Explanation: In this verse, Arjuna indicates that he has received profound knowledge from Krishna, in which the cycle of creation and destruction has been explained to him, as well as Krishna's unending greatness. He expresses gratitude and admiration for this wisdom. Here, Arjuna addresses Krishna as the lotus-eyed one with a respectful and admiring address, symbolizing beauty, purity, and peace.

11-3

That is exactly as You have said, O Supreme Divine Being. I wish to see Your Majestic form, O Supreme Person.

Explanation: In this verse, Arjuna confirms that Krishna has spoken the truth, but he wishes to see Krishna's Majestic form. Arjuna is convinced of Krishna's divine nature and wishes to experience His divine form, which symbolizes His omnipotence. The Supreme Person indicates Krishna's status as the Supreme Person or Divine personality, who possesses complete power and control over the Universe.

11-4

If You think I am capable of seeing it, O Lord, O Teacher of Great Wisdom, please show me Your eternal, infinite Self, if He deems Arjuna capable of seeing it.

Explanation: In this verse, Arjuna expresses his desire to see Krishna's divine form, but he also expresses humility and respect, indicating that this experience is possible only if Krishna considers it appropriate. Arjuna realizes that it is the deity's decision, and he asks Krishna to show him His eternal, infinite Self, if He deems Arjuna capable of seeing it. Krishna is addressed as Lord and Teacher of Great Wisdom, emphasizing His mastery over the spiritual discipline, which means Divine consciousness and control over all existence.

11-5

The All-Blessed Lord said: Behold, O son of Kunti, My forms in hundreds and thousands of diverse divine colors and shapes.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna begins to show Arjuna his cosmic form, in which He expresses the diversity and breadth of divinity. Krishna invites Arjuna to behold His countless, diverse, and divine forms. Krishna indicates that His form of divinity is not simple or limited – it encompasses hundreds and thousands of different expressions that differ in both colors and shapes. Son of Kunti is an address for Arjuna.

11-6

Behold, O descendant of Bharata, the Sun's Divine Beings, the Celestial Forces, the Storm Gods, the Divine Twins, and the Wind Gods. Behold many other wondrous forms that you have never seen before.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna continues to show Arjuna his cosmic form, which includes many divinities and wondrous phenomena that Arjuna has never seen before. Arjuna is given the opportunity to see wondrous forms that he has never seen before. These divinities and forms represent various forces that guide the world and the Universe. • Behold, O descendant of Bharata – Krishna urges Arjuna to observe carefully, emphasizing that what he sees is something extraordinary and divine. Descendant of Bharata is a title for Arjuna that indicates his connection to the Bharata dynasty. • Sun's Divine Beings, Celestial Forces, Storm Gods, Divine Twins, and Wind Gods – These are various deities that represent forces in nature and the Universe: • Sun's Divine Beings – Solar deities that represent the source of life and radiance. • Celestial Forces – Deities that control the elements of nature, such as fire and water. • Storm Gods – Deities associated with destruction and transformation. • Divine Twins – Twin deities that represent health and well-being. • Wind Gods – Wind deities that control the forces and movement of air. • Wondrous forms that you have never seen before – Krishna shows Arjuna not only these known deities but also many other wonders that Arjuna has never seen before. These wonders represent Krishna's immeasurable divine power and majesty.

11-7

Here, in My body, see the entire Universe united as one, with all moving and non-moving beings, O Conqueror of Sleep, and everything else you may wish to see.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna indicates to Arjuna that the entire Universe is visible in His cosmic form. Arjuna can see the entire Universe in one place with all its moving and non-moving beings. Krishna allows Arjuna to see all moving and non-moving beings, as well as everything else Arjuna may wish to see. This experience transcends ordinary human perception and reveals Krishna's universal nature. • Here, in My body, see the entire Universe – Krishna invites Arjuna to see the entire Universe as a unified whole, manifested in Krishna's cosmic body. This indicates that Krishna is the source and support of all that exists, and all creation exists within His body. • With all moving and non-moving beings – Krishna includes both moving and non-moving creatures in His cosmic form, which symbolizes all living and non-living existence. • O Conqueror of Sleep – This is an address to Arjuna, meaning one who has conquered sleep or one who is awake. It symbolizes Arjuna's focused mind and spiritual alertness. • And everything else you may wish to see – Krishna offers Arjuna to see not only the Universe in its current form but also any other aspect he may wish to understand or see. This symbolizes Krishna's unlimited abilities.

11-8

With your temporal eyes, you cannot see Me. Therefore, I grant you divine eyes. Behold My divine majesty.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna explains that ordinary human eyes cannot perceive His cosmic form and the greatness of divinity. Krishna bestows divine eyes upon Arjuna so that he can see His divine majesty. For Arjuna to be able to see Krishna's divine nature, he needs divine vision. Therefore, Krishna grants Arjuna special, divinity-given eyes so that he can perceive this manifestation of divinity. • With your temporal eyes, you cannot see Me – Krishna indicates that Arjuna's human eyes cannot see His cosmic form because it is supernatural and beyond ordinary human perception. This indicates a spiritual limitation that exists in human perception. • Therefore, I grant you divine eyes – So that Arjuna can see the manifestation of divinity, Krishna grants him divine eyes or spiritual vision that allows him to perceive what is beyond the ordinary and material. • Behold My divine majesty – Krishna invites Arjuna to use these divinity-given eyes to see His divine power and majesty, which encompasses the entire Universe. Krishna points to His unlimited power, which cannot be perceived with ordinary senses.

11-9

Sanjaya said: Thus speaks Sanjaya to Dhritarashtra, and that Krishna reveals to Arjuna His Supreme, All-Encompassing Form as the Great Teacher of Wisdom, the Almighty.

Explanation: In this verse, Sanjaya describes how, according to Krishna's words, He shows Arjuna His Supreme, All-Encompassing Form. Sanjaya says this to Dhritarashtra and that Krishna reveals to Arjuna His Supreme, All-Encompassing Form as the Great Teacher of Wisdom, the Almighty. Sanjaya is the narrator who tells Dhritarashtra about the conversation between Krishna and Arjuna. At this moment, Krishna moves from speaking to acting, showing Arjuna His cosmic form. Sanjaya refers to Krishna as the Great Teacher of Wisdom and the Almighty, emphasizing Krishna's power and ability to guide spiritual forces and the laws of the Universe.

11-10

With countless mouths and eyes, revealed in wondrous forms, adorned with many divine ornaments and holding many raised divine weapons.

Explanation: In this verse, Sanjaya continues to describe Krishna's cosmic form, which is shown to Arjuna. The form is adorned with many divine ornaments and raises many divine weapons. This cosmic form reveals Krishna's divine manifestations, which exceed the perceptual abilities of ordinary humans. Krishna's form is described as diverse and wondrous, with countless faces, eyes, ornaments, and weapons that reflect the power and diversity of the Universe. • Countless mouths and eyes – Krishna appears with many faces and eyes, symbolizing His presence throughout the Universe and the ability to see everything and speak to everyone. • Revealed in wondrous forms – Krishna appears in various divine forms that are filled with wonders and surprises, indicating His unlimited ability to manifest in different forms. • Many divine ornaments – Krishna is adorned with many divine ornaments that symbolize His divine status and majesty. • Raised divine weapons – Krishna holds divine weapons that are ready for action. These weapons symbolize His power and ability to defend and maintain cosmic order.

11-11

Clothed in divine garments and adorned with divine garlands, fragrant with divine scents, dazzling with wonders, radiant, boundless, with a face turned in all directions.

Explanation: This verse describes Krishna's cosmic form, which is shown to Arjuna. The form was dressed in divine garments, adorned with divine garlands, fragrant with divine scents, full of wonders, radiant, boundless, and with a face in all directions. Krishna's divine form is described as completely extraordinary, wondrous, and boundless. This manifestation exceeds the limits of human understanding, as Krishna manifests in all directions, symbolizing God's presence throughout the Universe. • Divine garments and garlands – Krishna is dressed in divine garments and adorned with flower garlands, symbolizing His majesty and divinity. This indicates a Divine status and glory that bestows special spiritual power. • Divine scents – Krishna emits a scent of divinity, symbolizing purity and blessing, indicating His spiritual nature. • Dazzling with wonders, radiant – Krishna is full of wondrous powers that are unusual and amazing. This indicates His infinite abilities and the ability to manifest the wonders of the Universe. • Boundless, with a face in all directions – Krishna is boundless, and He has faces in all directions, which means that He sees everything, is present throughout the Universe, and guides all creation.

11-12

If hundreds of thousands of suns were to rise simultaneously in the sky, their brilliance might resemble the light of the Great Lord's majesty.

Explanation: In this verse, Sanjaya attempts to describe Krishna's cosmic form, whose brilliance is so immense and astonishing that it could be compared to hundreds of thousands of suns rising simultaneously in the sky. Even if a thousand suns were to rise in the sky at the same time, their brilliance could only slightly resemble the light of the Great Lord's majesty. Krishna's divine power and radiance exceed any imaginable power and light that a human could perceive.

11-13

At that moment, Arjuna saw the entire Universe in countless manifestations, existing as a unified whole within the body of the God of Gods.

Explanation: In this verse, Sanjaya describes how Arjuna saw Krishna's cosmic form, in which the entire Universe was united, divided into countless parts, but still being in a unified form. Arjuna saw the entire Universe in countless manifestations, existing as a unified whole within the body of the God of Gods. This indicates that Krishna is the source and sustainer of the Universe, in whom everything exists simultaneously and is interconnected. • At that moment – Arjuna saw how the entire Universe is united in one place. This unity symbolizes that everything that exists is part of Krishna and His cosmic form. • The entire Universe in countless manifestations – Arjuna saw the entire Universe, consisting of different parts and forms. This indicates the diversity of the world, which exists in unity with the Divine. • Within the body of the God of Gods – Here Krishna is called the God of Gods, which indicates His supreme position and power over all other gods. The Universe is manifested and united directly in Krishna's cosmic body.

11-14

Then, overcome with amazement, bewildered, with his hair standing on end, Arjuna bowed reverently before God and, folding his hands in prayer, began to speak.

Explanation: This verse describes Arjuna's reaction after he has seen Krishna's cosmic form. Arjuna, overcome with amazement, bewildered, with his hair standing on end, bowed reverently before God and, folding his hands in prayer, began to speak. He is overwhelmed with wonder and confusion, which is so intense that his body reacts, raising his hair. Arjuna feels deep respect and humility, bows before God, and folding his hands in prayer, prepares to address Krishna.

11-15

Arjuna said: My Lord, I see within Your body all the gods and various other beings. I see the Lord of Spirit seated on a lotus flower, as well as all the great and divine sages.

Explanation: In this verse, Arjuna begins to describe what he sees in Krishna's cosmic form. Arjuna sees all the gods, various beings, the Lord of Spirit on a lotus flower, as well as all the great and divine sages. In Krishna's body, he sees not only divine forces, but also all living beings, the Lord of Spirit who is the creator, and many great and divine forces, including sages who represent ancient deities and forces of nature. • I see within Your body, My Lord – Arjuna indicates that he sees all the gods within Krishna's body, which indicates Krishna's cosmic nature, encompassing all the forces of divinity and the Universe. • Various other beings – Arjuna also sees various groups of beings representing the diversity of the Universe and life forms that are connected to Krishna's being. • The Lord of Spirit seated on a lotus – The Lord of Spirit, who is the creator and sits on a lotus flower, is described as part of Krishna's cosmic form, symbolizing creation and divine manifestation. • All the great and divine sages – Arjuna also sees all the great and divine sages, who symbolize wisdom and the manifestations of natural forces in Krishna's cosmic form.

11-16

I see You with countless arms, bellies, mouths, and eyes, omnipresent, in a boundless form. I see no end to You, no middle, or beginning, O Lord of the Universe, O Form of the Universe.

Explanation: In this verse, Arjuna describes Krishna's cosmic form, in which he sees countless manifestations – arms, bellies, mouths, eyes, extending in all directions. Arjuna is unable to see the end, middle, or beginning of Krishna's cosmic form. Arjuna understands that this form is infinite, and he cannot find its beginning, middle, or end point. This experience shows the state of Krishna, the Lord of the Universe, who encompasses everything and exists beyond any limitations. • I see You with countless arms, bellies, mouths, and eyes – Arjuna beholds Krishna's cosmic form, which has countless organs distributed in all directions. This symbolizes that Krishna is present throughout the Universe, and his influence encompasses all aspects of the world. • Omnipresent, in a boundless form – Krishna manifests as a boundless form that is omnipresent and transcends human understanding of boundaries and limitations. Krishna's form is infinite and therefore cannot be seen with ordinary senses. • I see no end to You, no middle, or beginning – Arjuna acknowledges that he cannot find the beginning, middle, or end point of Krishna's form, indicating Krishna's infinity. This emphasizes the boundlessness of the Divine form, which exists beyond the limits of time and space. • O Lord of the Universe, O Form of the Universe – Arjuna addresses Krishna as the Lord of the Universe, who governs the entire cosmos and is present in every part of it. Krishna's cosmic form is recognized as boundless and all-encompassing.

11-17

I see You with a crown, a mace, and a disc, radiating brilliance on all sides. You are difficult to behold in the radiance that resembles blazing fire or the immeasurable brilliance of the sun.

Explanation: In this verse, Arjuna continues to describe Krishna's cosmic form, in which he sees Krishna radiating brilliance on all sides, and that He is difficult to behold in the radiance that resembles blazing fire or the immeasurable brilliance of the sun. Krishna as a warrior-god, armed with a crown, a mace, and a divine disc, symbolizing the divine manifestations of war. Krishna radiates an extraordinary light that resembles flames of fire or the brilliance of the sun. This brilliance is difficult to look at because it is blindingly bright and immeasurable. • With a crown, a mace, and a disc – Krishna is described as a deity wearing a crown and equipped with a mace and a chakra (disc-shaped weapon). These symbols show Krishna's power and the majesty of the kingdom as the cosmic ruler. • Radiating brilliance on all sides – Krishna emits a powerful light and energy that comes from all sides, symbolizing his divine power and strength that encompasses the entire Universe. • Difficult to behold in the radiance that resembles blazing fire or the immeasurable brilliance of the sun – Krishna's light is so bright that it is difficult to look at, similar to looking at a blazing fire or the sun. This light is beyond the human ability to perceive directly.

11-18

You are the Indestructible, the Supreme Truth to be known. You are the refuge of all beings, the supreme refuge of the entire Universe. You are inexhaustible, the guardian of the eternal law. You are the Eternal Divine Being.

Explanation: In this verse, Arjuna recognizes Krishna as the Indestructible, the Supreme Truth to be known, the refuge of all beings, the inexhaustible, the guardian of the eternal law, and the Eternal Divine Being. It emphasizes Krishna's divine nature as indestructible, the source of supreme knowledge, the foundation of the Universe, and the guardian of the eternal law. He expresses his deep respect and gratitude, recognizing Krishna's eternal presence and unchanging nature. • You are the Indestructible, the highest to be known – Arjuna understands that Krishna is indestructible and is the highest being to be known and understood. This indicates the eternity and immutability of the Divine nature. • You are the supreme refuge of the entire Universe – Krishna is described as the foundation and refuge of the Universe, in whom everything exists and from whom everything originates. He is the source and stability in the entire Universe. • You are inexhaustible, the guardian of the eternal law – Krishna is inexhaustible and eternal, and he protects the eternal law. This points to Krishna's role as the upholder of justice and order. • You are the Eternal Divine Being – Arjuna perceives Krishna as the eternal being, who is the Supreme Person, the ruler of the Universe and the Divine manifestation.

11-19

I see that You have no beginning, no middle, no end, with infinite glory, countless arms, and Your eyes are like the sun and the moon, and from Your mouth comes blazing fire that burns the entire Universe with its brilliance.

Explanation: In this verse, Arjuna describes Krishna's cosmic form, in which he sees infinite power and immeasurable qualities. Arjuna sees Krishna without beginning, middle, and end, with infinite glory, countless arms, and His eyes are like the sun and the moon, and from His mouth comes blazing fire that burns the entire Universe with its brilliance. Krishna is without beginning, middle, or end, which indicates his eternity. His eyes are like the sun and the moon, symbolizing bright light and the ability to illuminate the entire Universe. Krishna's blazing mouth indicates the fire of his divinity, capable of burning the Universe with its brilliance. • Without beginning, middle, and end – Krishna is characterized as eternal, having no beginning, middle, or end, symbolizing his boundlessness in time and infinite nature. • Your glory is infinite – Krishna's power is infinite; he is capable of governing and creating the entire Universe. Infinite power indicates the might of God, which knows no limits. • With countless arms – In Krishna's cosmic form, he has countless arms, indicating his presence throughout the Universe and the ability to act everywhere simultaneously. • The sun and the moon are Your eyes – Krishna's eyes are compared to the sun and the moon, which means that he sees everything, illuminates the entire world, and symbolizes the divinity's ability to both give life and destroy. • From Your mouth comes blazing fire – Krishna's mouth emits flames of fire, indicating his ability to destroy and purify, symbolizing the fiery nature of divinity. • Burns the entire Universe with its brilliance – Krishna's light is so bright that it burns or encompasses the entire Universe, indicating his infinite power and brilliance that covers all existence.

11-20

Although You are one, You fill the heavens and the earth, and all the space between them. Seeing this wondrous and terrifying form of Yours, all three planetary systems are shaken, O Great One.

Explanation: Arjuna sees that Krishna alone fills the heavens, the earth, and all the space between them, and that all three planetary systems are shaken upon seeing this wondrous and terrifying form. • Although You are one, You fill the heavens and the earth, and all the space between them – Arjuna points out that Krishna is present everywhere, encompassing all the space between the heavens and the earth. This symbolizes God's infinite presence. • Seeing this wondrous and terrifying form of Yours – Krishna's cosmic form is both wondrous and powerful, inspiring both respect and fear. Krishna's greatness is so immense that it is difficult to comprehend. • All three planetary systems are shaken – The three worlds – the physical, astral, and celestial – are shaken and afraid because Krishna's mighty form exceeds any previously seen divine manifestation.

11-21

All the hosts of gods surrender to You and enter into You. Some, overcome with fear, pray to You with folded hands. The great sages and the perfected ones exclaim: May there be peace! and praise You with wise hymns.

Explanation: All the hosts of gods surrender to Krishna and enter into Him, some of them, overcome with fear, pray with folded hands, while the great sages and the perfected ones praise Krishna with wise prayers, expressing their respect and recognition. • All the hosts of gods surrender to You and enter into You – The gods enter Krishna's cosmic form, which symbolizes that the Divine is the source of all gods and their truly present form. • Some, overcome with fear, pray to You with folded hands – Some of the gods see Krishna's cosmic form and feel fear in the face of his greatness. They fold their hands in prayer, expressing prayers with deep respect and fear. • The great sages and the perfected ones exclaim: May there be peace! and praise You with wise hymns – The wise and holy, who have achieved perfection, praise Krishna with wise prayers, expressing their respect and admiration for the Divine power and wishing for peace.

11-22

All the Storm Gods, the Solar Deities, the Celestial Forces, the World Gods, the Divine Twins, the Wind Gods, the Spirits of the Forefathers, as well as the Celestial Singers, the Guardians of Treasures, the Divine People, and the Perfected Ones - all gaze upon You with amazement.

Explanation: All the Storm Gods, the Solar Deities, the Celestial Forces, the World Gods, the Divine Twins, the Wind Gods, the Spirits of the Forefathers, as well as the Celestial Singers, the Guardians of Treasures, the Divine People, and the Perfected Ones watch Krishna with amazement. • Storm Gods – Deities associated with destruction and transformation, they are manifestations of Shiva. • Solar Deities – Sun deities, symbolizing the life force and light. • Celestial Forces – Deities representing the elements of nature, such as fire, wind, water. • World Gods – Deities of the Universe, representing world order. • Divine Twins – Two gods associated with healing and medicine. • Wind Gods – Wind gods, symbolizing the power and dynamics of nature. • Spirits of the Forefathers – Spirits of ancestors associated with ancestor worship. • Celestial Singers – Heavenly musicians, symbolizing art and music. • Guardians of Treasures – Beings associated with wealth and prosperity. • Divine People – Beings who resist the gods, sometimes symbolizing evil. • Perfected Ones – Saints who have achieved spiritual perfection and enlightenment.

11-23

O All-Powerful One, seeing Your Great Form with many mouths, eyes, arms, thighs, feet, stomachs, and terrible teeth, all the worlds are shaken, and so am I.

Explanation: Seeing this mighty and terrifying form, all the worlds, including Arjuna, are shaken and frightened. • Great Form – Krishna's form is so huge and extensive that it encompasses the entire Universe, showing the greatness of his divinity. • Many mouths and eyes – Krishna's cosmic form manifests with many mouths and eyes, which symbolize his ability to see and express himself everywhere. • Arms, thighs, feet – Krishna has many arms, legs, and thighs, which symbolize his infinite power and control over the entire Universe. • Many stomachs and terrible teeth – Many stomachs symbolize Krishna's ability to encompass everything, and his terrible teeth indicate his role as a destroyer who can destroy and purify. • All the worlds are shaken, and so am I – The might of Krishna's cosmic form is so frightening that both the Universe and Arjuna are scared and shaken by this wonder.

11-24

When I see You reaching up to the heavens, radiant in various colors, with Your mouth wide open and immense, blazing eyes, my heart is shattered with fear, and I lose courage and peace, O Protector of the Universe!

Explanation: Seeing this form with a wide-open mouth and huge, blazing eyes, Arjuna's heart is shattered with fear, and he loses courage and peace. • Reaching up to the heavens – Krishna's form is so immense that it stretches to the heavens, which symbolizes his infinity and power. • Radiant in various colors – Krishna radiates multicolored light, which indicates his infinite nature and diverse manifestations. • With Your mouth wide open – Krishna's cosmic form is seen with wide-open mouths, symbolizing his ability to devour everything and encompass the Universe. • Immense, blazing eyes – Krishna's eyes are large and blazing, they shine brightly, showing his divine power and might. • My heart is shattered with fear – Arjuna experiences deep shock and fear upon seeing this form. His soul is shaken because he cannot comprehend Krishna's infinite form. • I lose courage and peace – Arjuna admits that he can no longer find inner peace or balance because Krishna's form is so immense and frightening. • O Protector of the Universe – Arjuna addresses Krishna as the Protector of the Universe, which symbolizes the all-encompassing nature of divinity and the guardian of the Universe.

11-25

Seeing Your mouths with terrible teeth that glow like the Time's Destroying Fire, I lose my sense of direction and am unable to find peace. Be merciful to me, O God of Gods, Refuge of the Universe!

Explanation: Seeing this terrifying form, Arjuna feels confused, loses his sense of direction, and is unable to find peace, therefore he asks Krishna for mercy. • Terrible teeth and mouths – Krishna's form with teeth and mouths evokes fear and respect. This manifestation symbolizes destruction and the inevitable flow of time. • Glow like the Time's Destroying Fire – Krishna's mouths are compared to the Time's Destroying Fire, which indicates the cycle of destruction and transformation that time creates. It reminds us that time is all-encompassing and destroys everything. • I lose my sense of direction – Arjuna is so bewildered that he can no longer orient himself in space, indicating his deep shock and spiritual confusion. • Unable to find peace – Arjuna admits that he cannot find inner peace in this wondrous but terrifying form that he sees. • Be merciful to me, O God of Gods – Arjuna pleads for Krishna to be merciful; he makes a request for Krishna to lessen his fear and shock. • Refuge of the Universe – Arjuna addresses Krishna as the Refuge of the Universe, emphasizing his presence throughout the Universe and his governance over all that exists.

11-26

All these sons of Dhritarashtra, together with the hosts of allied rulers, as well as our chief warriors, are rushing into Your terrible mouths.

Explanation: Arjuna sees not only the sons of Dhritarashtra but also the hosts of allied rulers, as well as Bhishma, Drona, Karna, and other leading warriors rushing into Krishna's terrible mouths. • All these sons of Dhritarashtra, together with the hosts of allied rulers, as well as our chief warriors – Arjuna sees the sons of Dhritarashtra, their allied rulers, and his own chief warriors. • Rushing into Your terrible mouths – They are being swiftly devoured by the mouths of Krishna's cosmic form.

11-27

The heads of some warriors are seen crushed between Your teeth.

Explanation: Arjuna sees that some of the warriors are being crushed between Krishna's teeth, and their heads are being shattered. • The heads of some warriors are seen – Arjuna observes the heads of individual warriors. • Crushed between Your teeth – The heads are pressed and crushed between Krishna's teeth, which symbolizes destruction.

11-28

As the streams of rivers hasten to the sea, so do these heroes of the world rush into Your blazing mouths.

Explanation: Arjuna compares the demise of the heroes to the streams of rivers rushing to the sea, indicating their inevitable fate. • As the streams of rivers hasten to the sea – The streams of rivers flow continuously and inevitably to the sea. • So do these heroes of the world rush into Your blazing mouths – Similarly, the heroes of the world inevitably rush into Krishna's blazing mouths, which symbolize death.

11-29

As moths rush towards a bright light to perish, so do all these people at great speed enter Your mouths for destruction.

Explanation: Arjuna compares the warriors' demise to the demise of moths that rush into a flame, indicating the inevitable destruction that awaits those who come near Krishna. • As moths rush towards a bright light to perish – Moths instinctively gravitate towards light, which leads to their destruction. • So do all these people at great speed enter Your mouths for destruction – Similarly, the warriors rush towards their destruction in Krishna's mouths.

11-30

O Sustainer of the universe, You devour all people with Your blazing mouths, licking Your lips. You fill the entire universe with Your bright radiance, which burns everything.

Explanation: Krishna devours all people with His blazing mouths, licking His lips, and fills the entire universe with His bright radiance, which burns everything. • You devour all people with Your blazing mouths, licking Your lips – Krishna is depicted as the destroyer who devours people. • You fill the entire universe with Your bright radiance, which burns everything – Krishna's brilliance is so intense that it burns the entire universe.

11-31

Reveal to me who You are in this terrifying form. I bow down humbly before You, O Great God, be merciful to me. I wish to know You, the original one, for I do not understand Your actions.

Explanation: Arjuna asks Krishna to reveal His identity in this terrifying form and expresses humility by bowing down before God and asking for His mercy. • Reveal to me who You are in this terrifying form – Arjuna wants to know Krishna's identity in His frightening form. • I bow down humbly before You, O Great God, be merciful to me – Arjuna expresses humility and asks for mercy. • I wish to know You, the original one, for I do not understand Your actions – Arjuna admits that he does not understand Krishna's actions and wishes to know Him.

11-32

The Supreme Lord said: I am Time, the mighty destroyer of the worlds, and I have come here to destroy all people. Except for you, the Pandavas, all the warriors assembled here will perish.

Explanation: In this verse, Krishna reveals Himself as Time, which is the inevitable destroyer, and that He has come to destroy all people, and that all the warriors, except for the Pandavas, will perish. • I am Time, the mighty destroyer of the worlds – Krishna reveals His identity as time, which destroys worlds. • I have come here to destroy all people – Krishna announces His intention to destroy the warriors. • Except for you, the Pandavas, all the warriors assembled here will perish – Krishna clarifies that only the Pandavas will survive.

11-33

Therefore, arise and prepare for battle. By gaining glory, conquering your enemies, you will enjoy a flourishing kingdom. By My will they are already dead, and you, O left-handed archer, are but an instrument.

Explanation: Arjuna must arise and fight to gain glory by conquering his enemies, and that he is only an instrument in Krishna's plan. • Therefore, arise and prepare for battle – Krishna gives Arjuna the command to fight. • By gaining glory, conquering your enemies, you will enjoy a flourishing kingdom – Krishna points out the consequences if Arjuna obeys. • By My will they are already dead, and you, O left-handed archer, are but an instrument – Krishna reveals that fate is already decided and Arjuna is an instrument.

11-34

Drona, Bhishma, Jayadratha, Karna, and other great warriors have already been destroyed by Me. Therefore, fight and do not doubt. Know for certain that you will conquer your enemies in battle.

Explanation: Krishna urges Arjuna to fight because Drona, Bhishma, Jayadratha, Karna, and other great warriors have already been destroyed by Krishna, and Arjuna only needs to fight to conquer his enemies on the battlefield. • Drona, Bhishma, Jayadratha, Karna, and other great warriors have already been destroyed by Me – Krishna announces that these warriors have already been destroyed by Him. • Therefore, fight and do not doubt – Krishna urges Arjuna to fight without doubt. • Know for certain that you will conquer your enemies in battle – Krishna guarantees Arjuna's victory.

11-35

Sanjaya said to Dhritarashtra: O ruler, having heard these words of the Supreme Lord, the trembling Arjuna again and again bowed down humbly before Him with folded hands, and, overcome with fear, pleaded with Krishna in a faltering voice.

Explanation: Arjuna, trembling and overcome with fear, again and again bowed down humbly before Krishna with folded hands and pleaded with Him in a faltering voice. • Having heard these words of the Supreme Lord – Arjuna has heard what Krishna said. • The trembling Arjuna again and again bowed down humbly before Him with folded hands – Arjuna's reaction is humble and full of awe. • And, overcome with fear, pleaded with Krishna in a faltering voice – Arjuna's plea is expressed in fear and with a trembling voice.

11-36

Arjuna said: O Lord of the senses, the world rejoices upon hearing Your name, and thus all become attached to You. Those who have attained perfection bow down respectfully before You, but the demons, overcome with fear, flee in all directions. All this is justified.

Explanation: Those who have attained perfection glorify Krishna, but demons flee, overcome with fear. • The world rejoices upon hearing Your name, and thus all become attached to You – People rejoice and become devoted upon hearing Krishna's name. • Those who have attained perfection bow down respectfully before You – Spiritually advanced people respectfully bow down before Krishna. • But the demons, overcome with fear, flee in all directions – Evil beings fear Krishna and flee. • All this is justified – Arjuna confirms that this reaction is reasonable.

11-37

O Great One, who are greater even than the Lord of the Spirit, how could they not worship You? O Infinite One, God of gods, Refuge of the universe, You are the Imperishable, the cause of all causes, beyond everything that is in this temporal world.

Explanation: Arjuna emphasizes Krishna's infinity, eternity, and the fact that He is the refuge for all beings. • O Great One, who are greater even than the Lord of the Spirit, how could they not worship You? – Arjuna asks how people could not worship Krishna, who is even greater than the Lord of the Spirit. • O Infinite One, God of gods, Refuge of the universe – Arjuna addresses Krishna using His epithets indicating infinity and the supreme position. • You are the Imperishable, the cause of all causes, beyond everything that is in this temporal world – Arjuna describes Krishna as imperishable, the cause of all things, and beyond the temporal world.

11-38

You are the Original God, the Eternal Divine Being, the oldest refuge for all this world. You are the knower of everything, and You are everything that needs to be known. You are the supreme abode, oh, Infinite Form. You fill the entire Universe!

Explanation: Arjuna acknowledges Krishna as the knower of all and everything that needs to be known, as the supreme abode and the one who fills the entire Universe with His infinite form. • You are the Original God, the Eternal Divine Being, the oldest refuge for all this world – Arjuna acknowledges Krishna as the original God, the eternal being, and refuge. • You are the knower of everything, and You are everything that needs to be known – Krishna is the one who knows everything and is the object of knowledge. • You are the supreme abode, oh, Infinite Form – Krishna is the supreme dwelling place. • You fill the entire Universe! – Krishna is omnipresent.

11-39

You are the Wind, You are the Supreme Controller! You are Fire, You are Water, and You are the Moon! You are the First Creator, and You are the Great-Grandfather! Therefore, I humbly bow down before You thousands of times, again and again!

Explanation: Arjuna acknowledges Krishna as the Wind, Fire, Water, Moon, the First Creator, and the Great-Grandfather, and expresses his humility by bowing down before Him thousands of times. • You are the Wind, You are the Supreme Controller! You are Fire, You are Water, and You are the Moon! – Arjuna lists Krishna’s various manifestations in the elements of nature. • You are the First Creator, and You are the Great-Grandfather! – Krishna is the creator of all things and the father of all ancestors. • Therefore, I humbly bow down before You thousands of times, again and again! – Arjuna repeatedly expresses his humility.

11-40

I bow down before You from all sides - from the front, from the back, and from the sides! Oh, Infinite Power, You are the possessor of immeasurable might! You fill everything, and therefore You are everything!

Explanation: Arjuna bows down before Krishna from all sides, acknowledging His infinite power and that Krishna fills everything. • I bow down before You from all sides - from the front, from the back, and from the sides! – Arjuna shows complete surrender by bowing down from all directions. • Oh, Infinite Power, You are the possessor of immeasurable might! – Arjuna acknowledges Krishna's infinite power and might. • You fill everything, and therefore You are everything! – Krishna is omnipresent and all-encompassing.

11-41

Considering You my friend, I carelessly addressed You: Oh, Krishna!, Oh, Yadava!, Oh, my friend!, not realizing Your greatness.

Explanation: Arjuna admits that he carelessly addressed Krishna as a friend, not realizing His greatness. • Considering You my friend, I carelessly addressed You: Oh, Krishna!, Oh, Yadava!, Oh, my friend! – Arjuna recalls his informal addresses. • Not realizing Your greatness – Arjuna admits that he did not fully realize Krishna's true nature.

11-42

Whatever way I have offended You, jesting, playing, resting, sitting, or eating together, sometimes alone, sometimes in the presence of others - for all of that I ask for forgiveness, oh, Immeasurable One.

Explanation: Arjuna asks for forgiveness for all the times he has offended Krishna, jesting, playing, resting, sitting, or eating together, alone or in the presence of others. • Whatever way I have offended You, jesting, playing, resting, sitting, or eating together – Arjuna lists situations in which he might have offended Krishna. • Sometimes alone, sometimes in the presence of others - for all of that I ask for forgiveness, oh, Immeasurable One – Arjuna asks for forgiveness regardless of the circumstances.

11-43

You are the Father of the entire Universe, the venerable Teacher, the greatest of all. No one is equal to You, and who could surpass You in all three worlds, oh, Lord with immeasurable power?

Explanation: No one is equal to Him, and no one can surpass Him. • You are the Father of the entire Universe, the venerable Teacher, the greatest of all – Arjuna acknowledges Krishna as the creator of all, the teacher, and the most powerful. • No one is equal to You, and who could surpass You in all three worlds, oh, Lord with immeasurable power? – Arjuna emphasizes Krishna’s uniqueness and unsurpassable nature.

11-44

Therefore, I fall before You, honoring You, and ask for Your grace. As a father tolerates a son, a friend a friend, and a lover the imperfections of a beloved, please forgive me, oh, Lord.

Explanation: Arjuna compares his plea with the patience of a father towards a son, a friend's forgiveness towards a friend, and a lover's forgiveness towards a beloved. • Therefore, I fall before You, honoring You, and ask for Your grace – Arjuna shows complete surrender and asks for grace. • As a father tolerates a son, a friend a friend, and a lover the imperfections of a beloved, please forgive me, oh, Lord – Arjuna asks for forgiveness, comparing the relationship to various forms of love.

11-45

Having seen Your Universal Form, which I have never seen before, I rejoice, yet at the same time my mind is stricken with fear. Therefore, please have mercy on me and show me again Your Divine Being's Form, oh, God of Gods, Refuge of the Universe.

Explanation: He asks Krishna to show His Divine Being's Form again because, although he rejoices at what he has seen, at the same time his mind is stricken with fear. • Having seen Your Universal Form, which I have never seen before, I rejoice, yet at the same time my mind is stricken with fear – Arjuna expresses mixed emotions about the cosmic form he has witnessed. • Therefore, please have mercy on me and show me again Your Divine Being's Form, oh, God of Gods, Refuge of the Universe – Arjuna asks Krishna to return to a more familiar and peaceful form.

11-46

Oh, Universal Form, thousand-armed Lord, I wish to see You in Your four-armed form with a helmet on Your head and a mace, disc, conch shell, and lotus flower in Your hands. I long to see You in that form.

Explanation: Arjuna wants to see Krishna with a helmet on His head and a mace, disc, conch shell, and lotus flower in His hands. • Oh, Universal Form, thousand-armed Lord, I wish to see You in Your four-armed form with a helmet on Your head and a mace, disc, conch shell, and lotus flower in Your hands – Arjuna specifies the form he wishes to see. • I long to see You in that form – Arjuna expresses his desire to see Krishna again in his more familiar form.

11-47

The Supreme Lord said: By My grace, Arjuna, I have shown you this Supreme Universal Form through My own internal potency. No one other than you has previously seen this infinite, radiant, all-pervading, original Form.

Explanation: No one other than Arjuna has previously seen this infinite, radiant, all-pervading, and original Form. • By My grace, Arjuna, I have shown you this Supreme Universal Form through My own internal potency – Krishna explains that the cosmic form has been revealed through His grace. • No one other than you has previously seen this infinite, radiant, all-pervading, original Form – Krishna emphasizes that this experience is unique to Arjuna.

11-48

O best of the Kuru warriors, no one but you has seen My Universal Form, for neither by the study of the Vedas, nor by sacrifice, nor by charity, nor by rituals, nor by severe austerities can this form be seen in this material world.

Explanation: It is impossible to see through the study of the Vedas, sacrifice, charity, rituals, or severe austerity. • No one but you has seen My Universal Form – Krishna reiterates Arjuna's unique experience. • For neither by the study of the Vedas, nor by sacrifice, nor by charity, nor by rituals, nor by severe austerities can this form be seen in this material world – Krishna emphasizes that this form cannot be achieved through ordinary spiritual practices.

11-49

You are disturbed and bewildered to see this terrible form of Mine. Now let it cease. My dear one, be free from fear and bewilderment again. With a peaceful mind, you can see the form you desire.

Explanation: Krishna offers Arjuna to see again the form he desires, with a peaceful mind. • You are disturbed and bewildered to see this terrible form of Mine – Krishna notices Arjuna's distress. • Now let it cease. My dear one, be free from fear and bewilderment again – Krishna comforts Arjuna and encourages him to be free from fear. • With a peaceful mind, you can see the form you desire – Krishna offers Arjuna to see the desired form.

11-50

Sanjaya said to Dhritarashtra: Having spoken thus to Arjuna, the Supreme Lord revealed His true four-armed form, and then, assuming a two-armed form, encouraged the apprehensive Arjuna.

Explanation: Sanjaya tells the blind king Dhritarashtra how Krishna, hearing Arjuna's request, ceases to demonstrate His cosmic form and reveals His four-armed and then two-armed form, thus encouraging the apprehensive Arjuna. • Having spoken thus to Arjuna, the Supreme Lord revealed His true four-armed form, and then, assuming a two-armed form, encouraged the apprehensive Arjuna – Sanjaya describes Krishna's transformation. • Sanjaya said to Dhritarashtra – Sanjaya addresses Dhritarashtra.

11-51

When Arjuna saw Krishna in His original form, he said: O pacifier of the people, seeing this human-like form, so beautiful, my mind is peaceful again, and I regain my natural state.

Explanation: Arjuna, seeing Krishna in His original form, says that now his mind is peaceful and he regains his natural state. • When Arjuna saw Krishna in His original form, he said – Arjuna reacts upon seeing Krishna in His usual form. • O pacifier of the people, seeing this human-like form, so beautiful, my mind is peaceful again, and I regain my natural state – Arjuna expresses relief and peace.

11-52

The Supreme Lord said: My dear Arjuna, this form of Mine that you now see is very difficult to behold. Even the demigods are always longing to see this most attractive form.

Explanation: This form is very attractive. • My dear Arjuna, this form of Mine that you now see is very difficult to behold – Krishna emphasizes that His human-like form is not easy to see. • Even the demigods are always longing to see this most attractive form – Krishna reveals that even the demigods desire to see this form.

11-53

This form of Mine that you have just seen with your spiritual eyes cannot be seen by studying the Vedas, nor by severe austerity, nor by charity, nor by sacrifice. By these alone one cannot see Me as I am.

Explanation: It can be seen only through pure devotional service. • This form of Mine that you have just seen with your spiritual eyes – Krishna recalls Arjuna's recent vision. • Cannot be seen by studying the Vedas, nor by severe austerity, nor by charity, nor by sacrifice. By these alone one cannot see Me as I am – Krishna reiterates that this vision cannot be achieved through ordinary spiritual practices.

11-54

My dear Arjuna, only by undivided devotional service can one know Me as I am, standing before you, and thus see Me directly. Only in this way can you enter into the mysteries of My being.

Explanation: Only through such devotion can a person know Krishna, see Him directly, and enter into the mysteries of His being. • My dear Arjuna, only by undivided devotional service can one know Me as I am, standing before you, and thus see Me directly – Krishna points to the importance of devotional service in knowing God. • Only in this way can you enter into the mysteries of My being – Krishna explains that devotional service leads to deeper understanding.

11-55

My dear Arjuna, he who performs pure devotional service, free from the fruits of previous actions and mental speculation, works for Me, makes Me the supreme goal of his life, and is friendly to all beings, certainly comes to Me.

Explanation: Those who act for Him, consider Him their supreme goal, and are friendly to all beings will certainly come to Him. • My dear Arjuna, he who performs pure devotional service, free from the fruits of previous actions and mental speculation – Krishna describes the essence of pure devotional service. • Works for Me, makes Me the supreme goal of his life, and is friendly to all beings, certainly comes to Me – Krishna describes the path to Him.