
13
CHAPTER
VERSE
18
ज्योतिषामपि तज्ज्योतिस्तमस: परमुच्यते |
ज्ञानं ज्ञेयं ज्ञानगम्यं हृदि सर्वस्य विष्ठितम् || 13.18 ||
Jyotiṣāmapi tajjyotistamasaḥ paramucyate |
Jñānaṁ jñeyaṁ jñānagamyam hṛdi sarvasya viṣṭhitam ||
That which is the light even among lights, which is said to be beyond darkness, and is knowledge, the knowable, and the goal of knowledge, is seated in the hearts of all.
Lesson:
Krishna describes it as the supreme light that illuminates even the brightest of lights and transcends the realm of darkness. This knowledge is not merely intellectual understanding but encompasses the essence of existence itself. His analogy of light symbolizes the illuminating power of true knowledge. Just as light dispels darkness and reveals objects hidden in the shadows, true knowledge eradicates ignorance and unveils the ultimate reality. It surpasses the limitations of sensory perception and intellectual analysis, penetrating the depths of consciousness.
Moreover, Krishna emphasizes that true knowledge is not confined to external sources or intellectual pursuits alone. It is not merely acquired through the study of scriptures or philosophical discourses. Rather, true knowledge is innate, existing within the hearts of all beings. It is the eternal truth that underlies the universe, waiting to be discovered through introspection and self-realization.
The verse also highlights the transformative nature of true knowledge. It is not merely theoretical or speculative but is experiential and transformative. True knowledge leads to self-awareness, enabling individuals to recognize their divine essence and the interconnectedness of all existence.
Furthermore, Krishna identifies true knowledge as the ultimate goal of human life. It is not merely a means to an end but is the end in itself. The pursuit of true knowledge leads to liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death, as it unveils the eternal reality beyond the transient world of phenomena.
By stating that true knowledge is seated in the hearts of all beings, Krishna emphasizes the universality of spiritual wisdom. It transcends the boundaries of caste, creed, or nationality, and is accessible to all who earnestly seek it. This assertion underscores the inherent divinity within every individual and the potential for spiritual enlightenment inherent in all beings.
In essence, this verse from the Bhagavad Gita underscores the profound nature of true knowledge and its transformative power. It invites seekers to look within their hearts and discover the eternal truth that lies beyond the realm of appearances. Through the pursuit of self-awareness and spiritual realization, one can attain the supreme goal of life and experience the everlasting joy of union with the divine.