But those who worship the imperishable, the indefinable, the unmanifest, the omnipresent, the inconceivable, the immutable, and the eternal,
The unmanifest path is introduced as one of abstraction and detachment. Krishna acknowledges this as a legitimate pursuit but subtly underscores its difficulty, particularly for those still deeply connected to worldly attachments.
Having restrained all the senses, remaining even-minded everywhere, engaged in the welfare of all beings—such persons attain Me alone.
Krishna praises the qualities needed for the unmanifest path—self-restraint and universal goodwill. This commentary reinforces the idea that devotion to the unmanifest requires profound inner discipline and selflessness.
Greater is the trouble of those whose minds are set on the unmanifest; for the unmanifest goal is very difficult for the embodied to reach.
Krishna stresses the hardships faced by those who pursue the unmanifest path. He gently steers attention toward the more practical path of devotion to the manifest divine, which is less arduous for the embodied soul.
But those who, dedicating all actions to Me and holding Me as their supreme goal, worship Me, meditating on Me with an undistracted mind—
Selfless action dedicated to Krishna is portrayed as a viable and fulfilling path. This commentary expands on how such actions, performed without desire for results, help devotees remain connected and focused on their spiritual goals.
To these whose minds are set on Me, O Partha, I become ere long the savior from the ocean of the mortal world.
Krishna assures that unwavering devotion transforms mortal struggles into liberation. This builds on the earlier discussion, promising divine intervention for those who surrender their minds and actions to Him.
Fix your mind on Me, let your intellect dwell in Me; thereafter you shall live in Me alone. There is no doubt of this.
Krishna advocates for wholehearted surrender of the mind and intellect. The commentary deepens the understanding of surrender as not only a practice but a state of being that ensures liberation.
If you cannot fix your mind steadily on Me, then, by the practice of Yoga, seek to reach Me, O Arjuna.
For those struggling with surrender, Krishna offers the alternative of consistent practice. This commentary reassures devotees that spiritual progress is gradual and adaptable to individual capacities.