Since I am beyond both the perishable and the imperishable, I am celebrated in the Vedas and the world as the Supreme Person.
By declaring himself superior to both the temporary and eternal, Krishna positions himself as the highest reality. He is beyond material limitations and is known as Purushottama—the Supreme Person—acknowledged in both scriptures and the world as the highest truth.
One who knows Me, the Supreme Person, without delusion, worships Me with all his heart and devotion.
Recognizing Krishna as the Supreme without doubt is the final realization that leads to total devotion. This is not blind faith but the culmination of wisdom, where the seeker transcends confusion and surrenders completely, understanding Krishna as the ultimate shelter.
Thus, I have revealed the most secret of all knowledge. One who understands this wisdom becomes enlightened and fulfills life’s purpose.
Krishna concludes the chapter by revealing that this knowledge is the most sacred of all teachings. Those who grasp its depth attain true wisdom and fulfill life’s purpose. This verse ties together the entire discourse, emphasizing that understanding and applying this wisdom is the key to liberation.
Chapter 16
{Shri Bhagavan said} Fearlessness, purity of heart, perseverance in pursuit of knowledge and yoga, charity, self-restraint, sacrifice, study of scriptures, austerity, and honesty.
Krishna begins by listing divine qualities, setting the foundation for distinguishing between the righteous and the wicked. Fearlessness and purity of heart are emphasized, suggesting that spiritual growth starts with inner refinement rather than mere rituals. These qualities guide seekers toward self-realization and ultimate liberation.
Non-violence, truthfulness, absence of anger, renunciation, peace, aversion to fault-finding, compassion for all beings, freedom from greed, gentleness, modesty, and absence of fickleness.
Building upon divine virtues, Krishna highlights non-violence and truthfulness as essential traits of the enlightened. The emphasis on restraint and compassion suggests that true strength lies in self-control and benevolence. These qualities create harmony in both individual lives and society, reinforcing the ideal path of dharma.
Vigor, forgiveness, fortitude, cleanliness, absence of hatred, and absence of excessive pride—these are the qualities of those born with divine nature, O Bharata.
Krishna concludes the divine attributes by underscoring perseverance, cleanliness, and humility. Unlike material success, which often fosters arrogance, true spiritual progress is marked by patience and purity. This verse also subtly prepares the reader for the contrast between divine and demoniac natures, which Krishna will explore next.