11.38 - Bhagavad Gita - Chapter 11, Verse 38

In Bhagavad Gita verse 11.38, Arjuna, profoundly moved by the cosmic revelation of Krishna's universal form, addresses Him with deep reverence: "You are the primal lord, the ancient person. This universe is your supreme abode. You are the knower, the knowable and the supreme abode. By You the whole universe is pervaded, O unlimited form."

This verse marks a significant transformation in Arjuna's understanding of Krishna. Previously seeing Him as a friend and charioteer, Arjuna now recognizes Krishna's true divine nature as the original Supreme God (ādi-devaḥ) and the most ancient spirit (puruṣaḥ purāṇaḥ). The realization that his companion is actually the ultimate foundation and shelter of the entire cosmos overwhelms him with awe.

Arjuna's declaration acknowledges Krishna's threefold supremacy: He is the ultimate knower of everything (vettā), the supreme object of knowledge (vedyam), and the transcendental abode (param dhāma). This comprehensive understanding reflects how Krishna encompasses all aspects of existence—He is simultaneously the source of knowledge, the knowledge itself, and the goal of all knowledge. Nothing exists beyond Him or independent of Him.

The verse culminates with Arjuna's recognition of Krishna's all-pervading nature (tvayā tatam viśvam), addressing Him as "ananta-rūpa" or "of unlimited form." This acknowledgment signifies that every aspect of creation—from the subtlest elements to the grandest cosmic structures—is permeated by Krishna's presence. The entire universe exists within Him, yet He transcends it completely.

The significance of this verse lies in how it captures Arjuna's complete shift in perception. The warrior who once treated Krishna casually now trembles in reverence before the Supreme Personality of Godhead who contains all universes within His form. This moment represents the pinnacle of spiritual realization—recognizing that the seemingly ordinary friend standing before him is actually the source of all creation.

Arjuna's revelation teaches us how our limited human perception often fails to recognize divinity in its midst. Just as Arjuna interacted with Krishna daily without fully comprehending His true nature, we too may overlook the profound spiritual dimensions present in our ordinary lives. This verse invites us to develop the vision to see beyond appearances and recognize the divine presence that pervades all existence.

This verse from Chapter 11 stands as one of the most profound theological declarations in the Gita, establishing Krishna as not merely a powerful deity among many, but as the original source of everything that exists. It forms part of Arjuna's spontaneous prayer upon witnessing the universe within Krishna—a moment where intellectual understanding transforms into direct spiritual perception, forever changing his relationship with both Krishna and the cosmos.