अन्तकाले च मामेव स्मरन्मुक्त्वा कलेवरम्। यः प्रयाति स मद्भावं याति नास्त्यत्र संशयः
The verse specifies that one must remember Krishna alone at the time of death and leave the body with this consciousness. This dedicated remembrance leads the soul to attain Krishna's own nature or being. The emphasis is on single-minded focus upon Krishna at the final moment.
Questions about mortality can clarify how we live now. Make room to consider what you want your attention and relationships to stand for, without treating spiritual belief as a substitute for medical care.
What would I give more care to if I stopped assuming there is unlimited time?
Write a private reflectionGo deeper into this verse
In Chapter 8, Verse 5, who is promising that there is 'no doubt' about attaining His being if remembered at death?
It is Krishna Himself who is making this promise. He assures that anyone who remembers Him alone when leaving the body will certainly attain His divine state. This assurance comes directly from Krishna, the Supreme Being, to guide Arjuna and all seekers.
What does 'quitting the body while remembering Me alone' suggest about the importance of one's final thoughts in this teaching on Whoever?
This phrase highlights the profound significance of one’s last thoughts at the moment of death. The verse teaches that the consciousness with which a person departs from the world shapes their ultimate spiritual destination. Remembering Krishna alone signifies total devotion, suggesting that one's lifelong practice of remembrance culminates in the final moment, which determines liberation.
In Chapter 8, Verse 5, what does 'attains My being' mean in the context of this teaching on Whoever?
'Attains My being' means reaching Krishna's divine state or union with Him after leaving the physical body. It implies liberation from the cycle of birth and death, merging with the supreme consciousness. The soul no longer undergoes material existence but becomes one with the divine essence of Krishna.
Why does the verse emphasize that there is 'no doubt' about the result of remembering Krishna at the time of death?
The statement 'no doubt' is meant to reassure and encourage unwavering faith in the spiritual path. By removing uncertainty, Krishna strengthens the resolve of seekers to cultivate remembrance and devotion. This certainty inspires confidence that sincere effort, especially at life’s end, will surely lead to liberation and union with the divine.
And he who, casting off the body, goeth forth thinking upon Me only at the time of the end, he entereth into My being: there is no doubt of that.