10.5 - Bhagavad Gita - Chapter 10, Verse 5

In Bhagavad Gita 10.5, Krishna continues to elaborate on how His divine essence is the origin of all the qualities that manifest in living beings. This verse identifies a spectrum of attributes—both positive and negative—ranging from intelligence and wisdom to satisfaction and even infamy, all of which have their source in Krishna. The context for these declarations lies in Krishna’s earlier affirmation that He is the Supreme Lord and the primal cause behind both the animate and inanimate universe.

Krishna begins by naming intellect (buddhi) and wisdom (jnana) as qualities emanating from Him. Intellect is the capacity for clear discernment and understanding, essential for making balanced decisions and prioritizing actions in life. Wisdom, on the other hand, is the deep knowledge that encompasses discerning the true nature of reality, particularly the difference between the soul and the material world. Freedom from delusion (asammoha) follows, signifying the clarity that arises when ignorance is dispelled and spiritual truth becomes evident. Through recognizing Krishna as the origin of these essential faculties, the verse invites us to see that the power to think clearly and act wisely is itself a divine gift, not merely a product of personal effort.

Krishna further highlights the emergence of qualities like forgiveness (kshama) and truthfulness (satyam) from Him. Forgiveness is the capacity to endure and let go of hurts, fostering peace and social harmony. Truthfulness is not simply refraining from falsehood, but courageously speaking what is beneficial, even when it is challenging. Through these attributes, Krishna points to a moral framework, suggesting that the highest ethical standards are not arbitrary but anchored in the divine nature of God Himself.

Self-control manifests in two forms: control over the senses (dama) and control of the mind (shama). While dama is the external restraint that prevents the senses from chasing transient pleasures or committing harmful acts, shama is the internal mastery that enables serenity of mind. These are complemented by happiness (sukha) and distress (duhkha), which Krishna asserts also arise from Him. Recognizing that the experiences of pleasure and pain in life are rooted in a divine source allows for a more balanced perspective on the vicissitudes of human existence.

The verse also points to the cycle of birth (bhava) and death (abhava) as manifestations of Krishna’s energy. He is the giver of life and the force behind dissolution, affirming His all-encompassing sovereignty. Further, the dualities of fear (bhaya) and fearlessness (abhaya) are explained as springing from the same divine origin: fear arises from attachments and ignorance, while fearlessness is the result of spiritual clarity and surrender to the Supreme. Both these states are not independent phenomena but reflections of one’s relationship with Krishna.

Nonviolence (ahimsa) and equanimity (samata) are other prominent qualities listed in this verse. Nonviolence is more than refraining from physical harm—it includes a compassionate disposition and the proactive intent to promote the well-being of others. Equanimity is the art of remaining balanced amid success and failure, pleasure and pain. Together, these qualities reflect a mind that is both sensitive and steady, capable of acting with compassion and composure regardless of circumstances.

Satisfaction (tushti), austerity (tapas), and charity (dana) are also mentioned among divine qualities. Satisfaction pertains to being content with what is received, austerity involves willingly accepting discomfort for spiritual growth, and charity is the selfless offering of one’s resources. Through such virtues, Krishna reinforces the idea that both inner contentment and outward generosity are ultimately facets of divine will made manifest. These, along with fame (yashas) and infamy (ayashas), highlight Krishna’s statement that every aspect of character, reputation, and experience is connected to the Supreme.

Thus, Bhagavad Gita 10.5 presents a profound vision of the universe and human nature, one in which all qualities—whether considered auspicious or challenging—are expressions of Krishna’s boundless opulence. By understanding that all these attributes emanate from the Supreme, the devotee gains a more comprehensive appreciation for the divine presence in every dimension of life. This recognition cultivates humility, gratitude, and a spiritual connection, seeing every aspect of existence as a manifestation of Krishna’s divine energy.