As the fire of digestion in the bodies of all living beings, I digest the four kinds of food by uniting with the vital air.
Krishna further deepens this connection by explaining that he is present in digestion itself. The act of nourishment is not independent of the divine but part of a greater cosmic order. This highlights that even the most fundamental processes of survival are connected to spiritual reality.
I dwell in the hearts of all beings, and from Me come memory, knowledge, and forgetfulness. I am the object of the Vedas and the knower of the Vedas.
As the indwelling presence in all beings, Krishna is the source of knowledge, memory, and forgetfulness. He also establishes himself as the ultimate goal of the Vedas, not just as an intellectual pursuit but as the very essence of wisdom that leads to liberation.
There are two kinds of beings—the perishable and the imperishable. All beings in the material world are perishable, while the eternal soul is imperishable.
Now, Krishna categorizes existence into two—perishable (material world) and imperishable (soul). While everything in the material realm is subject to decay, the eternal essence remains unchanged. This distinction lays the foundation for understanding the supreme reality beyond both.
Beyond these two is the Supreme Person, the unchanging Lord who pervades and sustains the three worlds.
Beyond both perishable and imperishable, Krishna describes himself as the ultimate being, sustaining everything. This verse marks the transition from understanding the temporary and eternal to recognizing the Supreme as the source of both, emphasizing his transcendence.
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.