पितासि लोकस्य चराचरस्य त्वमस्य पूज्यश्च गुरुर्गरीयान्। न त्वत्समोऽस्त्यभ्यधिकः कुतोऽन्यो लोकत्रयेऽप्यप्रतिमप्रभाव
Arjuna addresses Krishna as the father of all moving and non-moving beings, acknowledging Him as the origin and caretaker of the entire universe. By doing so, Arjuna expresses his deep realization of Krishna's supreme position and divine authority. He recognizes Krishna not only as his own guide but as the universal parent of all existence. This marks a turning point in Arjuna's understanding, as he now sees Krishna as the ultimate source of creation and protection for everything.
Awe can make us notice where familiarity became carelessness. If a relationship matters, consider whether an apology, a gentler tone, or more attentive presence is needed.
Go deeper into this verse
According to this teaching on There, what qualities does Arjuna attribute to Krishna using the terms 'greatest of gurus' and 'eminently worthy of worship'?
Arjuna attributes to Krishna the qualities of being the highest teacher and a being most deserving of reverence. By calling Krishna the greatest of gurus, Arjuna acknowledges that Krishna's wisdom and guidance surpass all others. Describing Him as eminently worthy of worship emphasizes Krishna's exalted status and the respect He commands from all living beings. Arjuna sees Krishna as the ultimate spiritual authority.
What is meant by the phrase 'there is no one superior to You; how then can there be anyone equal to You in the three worlds'?
This phrase means that Krishna stands above all other beings in existence, with no one surpassing Him in power, wisdom, or glory. By stating that no one is superior, Arjuna affirms Krishna's unrivaled position. He further reasons that if there is none superior, it is impossible for anyone to even be equal to Krishna in all the realms, highlighting Krishna's unique and unparalleled greatness.
How does Arjuna describe Krishna's influence in relation to the three worlds in this teaching on There?
Arjuna describes Krishna as having unmatched influence and power across the three worlds, which typically refer to heaven, earth, and the underworld. He emphasizes that Krishna's greatness cannot be matched or exceeded by anyone in any of these realms. This description reflects Arjuna's realization of Krishna's universal supremacy and all-encompassing presence.
Why does Arjuna emphasize the idea of Krishna being 'without equal or superior' and what lesson does this hold for spiritual seekers?
Arjuna emphasizes Krishna's uniqueness to express the highest form of devotion and surrender. For spiritual seekers, this teaches the importance of recognizing and honoring the supreme reality, seeing it as the ultimate source of guidance, protection, and wisdom. It suggests that true spiritual progress comes from acknowledging and connecting deeply with the divine, realizing that nothing else compares or stands above that ultimate truth.
Father of worlds, of all that moves and stands, Worthier of reverence than the Guru's self, There is none like to Thee. Who passeth Thee? Pre-eminent Thy power in all the worlds.
What do “thy” and “thou” mean?
“Thy” means “your”; “thou” and “thee” mean “you”; “thine” means “yours.” This historical translation is preserved as published.