11.37 - Bhagavad Gita - Chapter 11, Verse 37

Verse 11.37 of the Bhagavad Gita represents a pivotal moment in Arjuna's spiritual journey, where he fully recognizes and acknowledges Krishna's supreme position in the cosmos. In this verse, Arjuna questions why anyone would not bow before Krishna, who is greater than even Brahma, the creator of the universe. He addresses Krishna with profound reverence, calling Him "Mahātman" (great soul), "Deveśa" (Lord of the demigods), "Ananta" (the unlimited one), and "Jagan-nivāsa" (the refuge of the world).

The verse captures Arjuna's complete transformation from seeing Krishna as his friend and charioteer to recognizing Him as the Supreme Being who transcends all existence. After witnessing the universal form, Arjuna trembles in awe, his confidence replaced by humility and surrender. This moment marks a fundamental shift in their relationship, as Arjuna now understands that Krishna is not merely powerful but is the source of all power—the original creator who precedes even Brahma.

Arjuna acknowledges Krishna as "akṣaraṁ" (the imperishable) who is beyond both "sat" (cause) and "asat" (effect). This recognition reveals Krishna's position as the absolute reality that exists beyond the material realm of cause and effect. While everything in the material world is subject to creation and destruction, Krishna remains eternal and unchanging. He is both the foundation of the manifest universe and the unmanifest potential that exists beyond perception.

The verse highlights how different beings respond to Krishna according to their nature. Devotees are drawn to Him with love and reverence, while demons flee in terror from His overwhelming presence. The perfected beings, understanding His true nature, offer their respectful obeisances without hesitation. This contrast emphasizes Krishna's absolute influence over all existence and the various ways beings relate to the Supreme depending on their consciousness.

Arjuna's question—"Why should they not offer obeisances to You?"—is rhetorical, emphasizing the obviousness of Krishna's supreme position. In essence, Arjuna is saying that once one truly understands Krishna's nature as the source of everything, including Brahma himself, offering respect and reverence becomes the only natural response. Krishna is described as "garīyase" (greater than) Brahma and "ādi-kartre" (the original creator), establishing His position at the pinnacle of all existence.

This verse also reveals Krishna's omnipresence throughout creation. Arjuna sees that Krishna pervades everything—He is present in all elements, all beings, and all aspects of existence. This realization leads Arjuna to offer obeisances from all directions, acknowledging that Krishna's presence extends infinitely beyond time and space. The Supreme Lord is not confined to a single form or location but exists everywhere simultaneously.

The profound transformation we witness in Arjuna reflects the journey of spiritual awakening that awaits all seekers of truth. From seeing the Divine as a distant concept or a friendly guide, to recognizing the Supreme as the very foundation of our existence, this verse captures that moment of awe and surrender when one truly comprehends the vastness of the Divine. Arjuna's response—humble, reverent, and filled with wonder—shows us how profound spiritual realization naturally evokes an attitude of respect and devotion, not through external demand but through internal recognition of the Supreme Truth that Krishna represents.