आदित्यानामहं विष्णुर्ज्योतिषां रविरंशुमान्। मरीचिर्मरुतामस्मि नक्षत्राणामहं शशी
Krishna identifies himself as Vishnu among the twelve Adityas, as the radiant sun among all luminaries, as Marichi among the Maruts, and as the moon among the stars. This shows his presence in the most prominent forms within each group mentioned.
The descriptions of excellence and nature offer a practice of noticing. Pause to appreciate skill, beauty, or courage without turning admiration into the thought that you are inadequate.
Go deeper into this verse
How does Krishna describe his manifestation among the luminaries and the stars in this teaching on Visnu?
Krishna describes himself as the radiant sun among all the luminaries and as the moon among the stars. By highlighting these brilliant celestial bodies, he emphasizes his supreme and illuminating presence in the universe.
What is the significance of Krishna calling himself Vishnu among the Adityas and Marichi among the Maruts?
By identifying himself as Vishnu among the Adityas and Marichi among the Maruts, Krishna conveys that his divine essence pervades the most distinguished and powerful entities within each group. This helps Arjuna understand that the divine can be recognized in the most excellent aspects of creation.
In Chapter 10, Verse 21, what does it mean when Krishna says he is the moon (shashi) among the nakshatras?
When Krishna says he is the moon among the nakshatras, he means that among all the stars, his presence is like that of the moon—brightest, most influential, and a guide through the night. This symbolizes his role as a guiding and nourishing force in the cosmos.
Why does Krishna use examples like the sun, moon, and Vishnu to illustrate his divine manifestations?
Krishna uses these examples to help Arjuna recognize the divine in forms that are universally acknowledged as powerful, radiant, and sustaining. By choosing the sun, moon, and Vishnu, Krishna teaches that divinity expresses itself through the most luminous and vital aspects of life, encouraging us to see the sacred in the extraordinary elements of our world.
Of the Adityas I am Vishnu; of radiances the glorious sun; I am Marîchi of the Maruts; of the asterisms the Moon am I.