रूपं महत्ते बहुवक्त्रनेत्रं महाबाहो बहुबाहूरुपादम्। बहूदरं बहुदंष्ट्राकरालं दृष्ट्वा लोकाः प्रव्यथितास्तथाऽहम्
Arjuna is experiencing terror upon seeing the divine form of Lord Krishna. He observes the numerous mouths, eyes, arms, thighs, feet, bellies, and teeth, which contribute to the dreadful appearance that strikes fear into him and the worlds.
The vision of time confronts human limits. You can acknowledge uncertainty and still choose a responsible next action; this passage should not be used to excuse harming someone.
What responsibility remains mine even when the outcome is uncertain?
Write a private reflectionGo deeper into this verse
How is the form described in terms of its physical features?
The form is described as having numerous mouths and eyes, many arms, thighs, feet, bellies, and teeth. This vast and multifaceted form appears stupendous and dreadful, contributing to the terror experienced by Arjuna and the worlds.
What is the reaction of the worlds upon seeing the form with numerous mouths and eyes?
The worlds are terror-struck upon seeing the form with numerous mouths and eyes. The overwhelming and frightening nature of the form causes fear and distress.
Why might Arjuna feel terror upon witnessing the divine form with many arms and teeth?
Arjuna might feel terror because the divine form's sheer scale and ferocity are beyond human comprehension. The numerous arms and teeth symbolize immense power and can represent the destructive aspects of divinity, which are both awe-inspiring and fearsome to behold.
In Chapter 11, Verse 23, what could the many mouths and eyes of the divine form symbolize in a broader spiritual context?
The many mouths and eyes of the divine form could symbolize the omnipresence and omniscience of the divine. They represent the ability to perceive and act in countless ways across the universe, signifying the infinite nature of the divine and its presence in all aspects of creation.
Thy mighty Form, with many mouths and eyes, Long armed, with thighs and feet innumerate, Vast-bosomed, set with many fearful teeth, The worlds see terror-struck, as also I.
What do “thy” and “thou” mean?
“Thy” means “your”; “thou” and “thee” mean “you”; “thine” means “yours.” This historical translation is preserved as published.