In this chapter, Shri Krishna explains to Arjun the events that transpire during the moment of death. He also imparts knowledge about his own divine nature and the magnificence inherent within him. Furthermore, he elaborates on the outcomes of attaining moksha and the contrasting experiences of those caught in the perpetual cycle of life and death.

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Verse 1 and 2

Arjuns question 9: This chapter commences with Arjun posing inquiries prompted by the knowledge imparted in the preceding chapter. He seeks a precise explanation of certain Sanskrit terms previously used by Shri Krishna and seeks clarification on what unfolds during the moment of death for those who hold the Supreme God in their remembrance.

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Shri Krishnas Answer 9: Starting from verse 3 and extending through verse 8, Shri Krishna elaborates on the meanings of the various words that Arjun inquired about. Additionally, he provides insights into the destiny of individuals who hold the Supreme God in their thoughts during the crucial juncture of death.

 

Verse 3 and 4

"Brahman" is one of the names attributed to God, denoting the supreme and indestructible essence that transcends all other entities.

"Adhyatma" refers to one's own self, specifically indicating the individual soul or the inner essence of an individual.

"Karma" signifies one's actions, encompassing deeds and activities that tie individuals to the perpetual cycle of life and death.

"Adhibhuta" encompasses all perishable and transient entities, referring to the material manifestations within the physical world.

"Adhidaiva" denotes the universal form of God, which holds authority over the celestial deities and divine forces present within the creation.

"Adhiyajna" represents the Supreme Lord who resides within the heart of every living being, acting as an inner observer of all actions undertaken by the being.

 

Verse 5 to 8

Concisely, these verses outline the path to achieve moksha. Shri Krishna emphasizes that those who recall him during their final moments are destined to reach him. He further notes that what one remembers at death shapes their next life. Yet, recalling the Supreme God solely during this critical juncture is challenging unless one has deeply immersed themselves in devotion throughout life. Shri Krishna advocates performing duties (Karma) while maintaining a focused mind on God, a practice that should be sustained consistently. This approach prevents becoming ensnared in the cycle of karma and aids in continuously remembering God, culminating in the ability to recall him at death and attain his divine presence thereafter.

 

Verse 9 to 16

Shri Krishna succinctly defines his essence, highlighting that he radiates a brilliance surpassing that of the Sun, yet exists as minuscule as the tiniest particle. This portrayal underscores his transcendence beyond human imagination and understanding. Additionally, he emphasizes that an individual who consistently contemplates him and employs Yogic practices to focus on him during their final moments will undoubtedly attain his divine presence. Complete devotion (Bhakti) to him facilitates this journey, ultimately liberating individuals from the perpetual cycle of life and death.

 

Verse 17 to 19

To elucidate the cycle of life and death, Shri Krishna delves into the concept of Yugas (such as Satyug, Kalyug, etc.). In essence, he explains that a single day in the life of Brahma ji, lasting around 4.32 billion years, encompasses the entire lifespan of humans and the Yugas. At the culmination of Brahma's night, souls reunite with the Supreme Lord. Those who have not achieved Moksha are then reborn when Brahma's new day dawns after the night concludes.

 

Verse 20 to 22

While those who have attained the Supreme Lord get to reside in a realm that Shri Krishna describes as impervious to dissolution within the aforementioned time cycle. This realm stands as the supreme goal for every soul and can solely be reached through wholehearted devotion, referred to as complete bhakti. This sphere is also known as a "Lok" in common parlance. Instances of such realms include Golok, where Lord Krishna dwells, and Devi Lok, the abode of Ma Durga, among others.

 

Verse 23 to 28

Shri Krishna restates what has previously been conveyed regarding Moksha and continues to address the query concerning the consequences of contemplating the Supreme Lord during one's final moments. He employs the allegory of day and night to illustrate his point. The "day" symbolizes knowledge of the Supreme Lord, while the "night" represents ignorance devoid of such knowledge. Those who pass away during the "day" achieve union with him and are liberated from the cycle of life and death. Conversely, those who depart during the "night" return, becoming entwined once again in the cycle.

Shri Krishna underscores that Yogis persistently striving to connect with him and wholeheartedly devoted to his essence ultimately attain him at the moment of death.

 

CONCLUSION: This chapter deepens our understanding of Bhakti and its role in attaining moksha. Shri Krishna emphasizes the significance of consistent Bhakti, highlighting that relying solely on deathbed repentance or devotion is insufficient for attaining the Supreme Lord. Rather, steadfast and unwavering efforts throughout one's life pave the path to realizing him.

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