ईश्वरः सर्वभूतानां हृद्देशेऽर्जुन तिष्ठति।भ्रामयन्सर्वभूतानि यन्त्रारूढानि मायया
In this verse, the Supreme Lord is described as residing in the hearts of all beings. He is the inner controller who directs the activities of every living entity.
Letting go of the need to control everything can coexist with care, help-seeking, and responsible action. A devotional reading of surrender should not require giving up your safety or agency.
Where could I accept support without abandoning responsibility?
Write a private reflectionGo deeper into this verse
What does it mean that living entities are seated 'as on a machine' in this teaching on Arjuna?
The phrase 'as on a machine' suggests that living beings are operating within the body which is like a vehicle or machine. It implies that their actions and movements are directed by the Supreme Lord, similar to how a driver controls a vehicle.
How does the Supreme Lord influence living entities according to this teaching on Arjuna?
According to this verse, the Supreme Lord directs the wanderings and actions of all living entities. He does so by being situated within their hearts and influencing them through His divine energy, guiding their paths and decisions.
Why does the verse refer to the Supreme Lord's influence as 'maya'?
The term 'maya' in this context refers to the divine energy or illusion through which the Supreme Lord orchestrates the movements and experiences of living entities. It signifies His power to manage and direct the material world and the souls within it.
How can understanding the Supreme Lord's role in our lives, as described in this teaching on Arjuna, impact our actions?
Understanding that the Supreme Lord resides in our hearts and directs our actions can lead to a sense of surrender and trust. Recognizing His guiding presence may inspire us to act with humility and alignment to divine will, reducing ego-driven actions and focusing on our spiritual growth.
The Lord dwelleth in the hearts of all beings, O Arjuna, by His illusive Power causing all beings to revolve, as though mounted on a potter's wheel.