18.70 - Bhagavad Gita - Chapter 18, Verse 70

Bhagavad Gita verse 18.70 presents Krishna's declaration about the sacred nature of studying the divine dialogue between Himself and Arjuna. In the original Sanskrit, Krishna states: "adhyeṣyate ca ya imaṃ dharmyaṃ saṃvādam āvayoḥ, jñāna-yajñena tenāham iṣṭaḥ syām iti me matiḥ" – which translates to "One who studies our sacred dialogue will thereby worship Me through the sacrifice of transcendental knowledge. This is My opinion."

This verse appears near the conclusion of the Bhagavad Gita, where Krishna emphasizes the importance of not just hearing or teaching these divine instructions, but deeply studying them. The term "adhyeṣyate" is significant as it refers not to casual reading but to sincere, reverent study with a genuine desire to understand the deeper meanings contained within this conversation. Krishna describes this dialogue as "dharmyam" – righteous and aligned with eternal dharma – highlighting its sacred nature.

What makes this verse particularly profound is that Krishna equates the sincere study of the Gita to a form of worship. He introduces the concept of "jñāna-yajñena" – the sacrifice of knowledge or transcendental knowledge. Just as traditional worship might involve offering flowers, incense, or other material items, Krishna elevates the dedicated application of one's intelligence to understanding His teachings as a supreme form of sacrifice. By engaging our intellect in contemplating these divine truths, we are performing a sacred act of devotion.

Krishna then makes a remarkable statement: "tenāham iṣṭaḥ syām" – by that (study), I am worshipped. This places sincere study of the Gita on par with direct devotional service to Krishna Himself. It's as if Krishna is opening a direct channel of connection through the medium of His words. When He adds "iti me matiḥ" – "this is My opinion" – He establishes this not as a debatable point but as divine truth. When the Supreme Lord declares something as His conviction, it stands as absolute.

This verse reveals Krishna's compassion and accessibility. He's creating multiple pathways for souls to connect with Him. Not everyone can be a teacher or explain the philosophy to others, but sincere study is available to anyone willing to engage with the text. The verse suggests that even if we cannot teach others, we can worship Krishna through our own dedicated study and contemplation of His words. This creates a personal, intimate connection between the reader and Krishna through the medium of sacred knowledge.

The verse also implies that the Bhagavad Gita isn't merely philosophical discourse but a living conversation that continues to exist beyond its historical context. When Krishna refers to "this sacred conversation between us," He's inviting readers across time to enter into this sacred space where eternal truths are revealed. In studying the Gita, we're not merely analyzing ancient wisdom but participating in an ongoing dialogue between the divine and the seeking soul.

Ultimately, verse 18.70 reveals that the path to Krishna isn't limited to external rituals or specific qualifications. It's accessible through sincere engagement with divine knowledge. As we study these conversations with devotion, we're not just accumulating information – we're performing an act of worship that Krishna Himself declares as supremely valuable. This verse offers profound encouragement to seekers at all levels, affirming that dedicated study of sacred wisdom is itself a powerful spiritual practice that brings us closer to the divine.