आब्रह्मभुवनाल्लोकाः पुनरावर्तिनोऽर्जुन। मामुपेत्य तु कौन्तेय पुनर्जन्म न विद्यते
Krishna explains that those who attain Him are no longer subjected to rebirth. He assures Arjuna that reaching His divine abode means liberation from the cycle of birth and death, which binds all other beings.
The contrast between what passes and what endures invites a look at priorities. Notice whether your schedule serves only immediate rewards or also reflects your deeper commitments.
Go deeper into this verse
How does Krishna describe the nature of all worlds up to Brahmaloka in this teaching on Great?
Krishna describes all worlds, even up to Brahmaloka, as places where beings are subject to returning, meaning they experience repeated birth and death. These realms are temporary, and no matter how high one ascends, the cycle of rebirth continues unless one attains Him.
Why does Krishna emphasize that even Brahmaloka is not free from the return to birth?
Krishna emphasizes this point to show that material achievements, no matter how grand, are still within the bounds of impermanence and suffering. He wants Arjuna to understand that true liberation lies not in reaching higher worlds, but in uniting with the Divine, which transcends all cycles of existence.
What is meant by 'punarāvartinaḥ' (subject to rebirth) according to the verse?
'Punarāvartinaḥ' refers to the repeated cycle of birth and death experienced by all beings in worldly existence. According to Krishna, unless one attains union with Him, this cycle continues endlessly, causing sorrow and impermanence.
In Chapter 8, Verse 16, how can one practically strive to reach the state where 'punarjanma na vidyate' (no rebirth occurs), as mentioned in this teaching on Great?
To reach the state where rebirth no longer occurs, one should focus on sincere devotion, selfless action, and constant remembrance of the Divine. Cultivating detachment from material desires and seeking knowledge of the Self can help transcend the cycle of birth and death. Regular practice of meditation and living a life of righteousness lead the soul closer to liberation.
The worlds, beginning with the world of Brahmâ, they come and go, O Arjuna; but he who cometh unto Me, O Kaunteya, he knoweth birth no more.