The Blessed Lord said: Out of compassion for you, O Arjuna, I have revealed My universal form through My divine power. It is an infinite, effulgent, and original form that no one has seen before.
Arjuna’s desire to see Krishna’s four-armed form reflects the human need for an approachable aspect of divinity. It signifies a transition from awe and fear of the universal form to devotion and comfort in a familiar divine image.
Not through the Vedas, austerities, charity, or sacrifices can I be seen in this universal form by anyone other than you, O Arjuna.
Krishna reveals the uniqueness of the experience granted to Arjuna, emphasizing that such divine visions are rare and beyond the reach of ordinary perception, even for celestial beings or those with extensive spiritual practice.
Do not be disturbed or bewildered by seeing this terrible form of Mine. With a fearless and joyful heart, behold My human form again.
The assurance that austerities, rituals, or sacrifices alone cannot lead to such visions highlights the indispensability of grace and devotion. Krishna underscores that witnessing divinity requires both effort and divine favor.
Sanjaya said: After speaking thus to Arjuna, Krishna displayed His human form once again. Becoming gentle in His appearance, He comforted the terrified Arjuna.
Krishna’s reassurance to Arjuna, paired with His return to a gentle human-like form, signifies compassion. This transition conveys that divinity encompasses both the cosmic and personal aspects, making it accessible to human understanding.
Arjuna said: Seeing this gentle human form of Yours, O Janardana, I have regained my composure and my mind is restored to its natural state.
Krishna’s shift from His universal form to His human-like form soothes Arjuna’s troubled heart. This moment underscores the compassionate nature of divinity, emphasizing its ability to adapt to the devotee’s needs.
The Blessed Lord said: It is extremely difficult to behold this form of Mine, which you have seen. Even the gods are ever eager to behold this form.
Arjuna’s sense of relief and regained composure after witnessing the gentle form of Krishna underscores the human mind’s struggle to comprehend the infinite. This moment signifies the reconciliation of fear and devotion.
Not by study of the Vedas, austerity, charity, or sacrifice can one see Me as you have seen Me.
Krishna explains that even the gods yearn to witness His universal form, underlining the rarity and privilege of Arjuna’s experience. This shloka highlights the exclusivity of such divine revelations and their spiritual significance.