The Revealing of Krishna as the Supreme Being: Arjuna’s Awakening in the Bhagavad Gita

The Bhagavad Gita, a pivotal chapter of the Indian epic Mahabharata, narrates the spiritual journey of the great warrior Arjuna. One significant moment in this journey is when Arjuna comes to realize that Krishna is indeed the Supreme Being. This revelation occurs in Chapter 11, known as the Vishvarupa Darshan (Vision of the Universal Form), where Krishna reveals His divine universal form to Arjuna.

Understanding the Divine through the Vision

Chapter 11 of the Bhagavad Gita is a profound moment in Arjuna's spiritual journey. In this chapter, Krishna reveals His divine universal form to Arjuna, disclosing that He encompasses all aspects of the universe and beyond. Arjuna witnesses Krishna's omnipresence, omnipotence, and the vast all-encompassing nature of His divine form. This vision deeply moves Arjuna, leading him to understand Krishna's true nature as the Supreme Being, the ultimate source of all existence.

Early Realizations about Krishna

Arjuna's understanding of Krishna as the Supreme Being is not immediate. There is no specific scenario mentioned where he first learns about Krishna. With his mother Kunti, Arjuna likely already knew about his divine friend from her blessings. However, the first clear understanding of Krishna’s true identity occurred when Guru Drona informed Arjuna about Krishna's true identity during the Southern subdivision of Mahabharata.

Citation from Mahabharata

(Guru Drona tells Arjuna) The entire universe is dependent on him, dissolves in him, and originates from him. Even Brahma Ishana and others do not know that state. Brahma born from His navel created all beings. He alone is the creator, enjoyer, and destroyer of the universe. He alone is the supreme being, past, present, and future. He is eternal, omnipresent, steady, immovable, and ancient. The one with yogic soul manifests for the sake of protection playfully. For no one like him has been born, is being born, or will be born. He is your maternal uncle's son, and your father, the preceptor of the moving and unmoving world. What man, knowing what is good for himself, would seek to conquer him? Adhyaya 151, Adi Parva, Mahabharata, Kumbhakonam edition.

Direct Revelation from Sri Krishna

Furthermore, Krishna Himself revealed His divine nature in the battleground of Kurukshetra, promising peace and enlightenment. In a well-known verse, Krishna stated:

"I am the god of all preservation, the purifier of all faults, the ultimate abode. Abandon all varieties of religion and just surrender unto Me. I shall deliver thee from all sinful reactions. Do not fear."

Jai Radhey Shyam.

This verse emphasizes the importance of surrender and faith in Krishna, highlighting His transcendent qualities as the Ultimate Reality.

Conclusion

Arjuna's journey of understanding Krishna's true nature as the Supreme Being is a profound chapter in the Bhagavad Gita. From the initial information through Guru Drona to the direct revelation of Sri Krishna Himself, Arjuna comes to see the divine in his friend and mentor. This realization not only deepens his faith but also provides a framework for his spiritual and martial duties.