Compassion – In Gita Verse 4.7 Whenever and wherever there is a decline in religious practice, O descendant of Bharata, and a predominant rise of irreligion – at that time I descend Myself.
In the Bhagavad Gita Verse 4.7, Krishna speaks of descending to earth whenever there is a decline in righteousness and a rise in unrighteousness. This profound statement is not merely about a physical descent but signifies the emergence of a divine consciousness that transcends time and form. It’s a reminder that the universe responds to imbalance with a force of compassion, a force that manifests in various forms, be it Krishna, Buddha, or any enlightened being.
Compassion, as opposed to lust, is the driving force behind these manifestations. While lust is self-centred, focusing on personal desires and ego, compassion is selfless, extending outward to embrace others. It’s akin to a flower blooming, spreading its fragrance far and wide, or a stone cast into a lake, creating ripples that reach distant shores. Compassion expands, while lust contracts; it is the antidote to the world’s ills.
Krishna’s message is clear: when dharma, or righteousness, falters, and adharma, or unrighteousness, prevails, a divine presence emerges to restore balance. This presence is not confined to a single identity; it encompasses all enlightened beings who work towards the upliftment of humanity. The ‘I’ that Krishna refers to is a universal consciousness, one that includes Buddha, Mahavira, Jesus, and Mohammed. It is not a personal identity but a collective force of enlightenment.
When individuals transcend their desires and ego, they become vessels for this divine consciousness. They return to the world out of compassion, not for personal gain but to serve a greater purpose. Names and identities are tied to desires; once these are shed, one’s true nature is revealed. Thus, when Krishna speaks of his return, it is not about his physical presence but the emergence of any soul who embodies compassion and righteousness.
In Krishna’s perspective, irreligion manifests when individuals are ensnared by duality and their primal instincts. To elevate human consciousness, he incarnates to guide and nurture. Compassion alone serves as the true path to healing.
The story of Angulimal and Buddha beautifully illustrates the transformative power of compassion. Angulimal, a notorious killer, was transformed by Buddha’s compassion and wisdom. Buddha’s encounter with Angulimal was not just a meeting of two individuals but a clash between darkness and light, ignorance and enlightenment. Through compassion, Buddha was able to reach the heart of Angulimal, showing him the futility of his actions and guiding him towards a path of righteousness.
Compassion is the ultimate healer. It has the power to transform even the most hardened hearts, as seen in Angulimal’s case. Buddha’s refusal to turn away from Angulimal was not an act of defiance but an expression of boundless compassion. He saw beyond Angulimal’s actions to the potential for change within him. This is the essence of divine compassion – seeing the light within the darkness and nurturing it until it shines brightly.
The return of enlightened beings like Krishna, Buddha, or Mahavira is not bound by time or place. They arise whenever there is a need for guidance and transformation. Their presence is a beacon of hope, illuminating the path for those lost in ignorance and despair. They create opportunities for growth and enlightenment, turning even the direst circumstances into moments of profound learning and transformation.
The message is one of hope and empowerment. If a person like Angulimal can transform, so can we. The potential for change exists within each of us, waiting to be awakened by the light of compassion. The divine consciousness that Krishna speaks of is not an external force but an inner awakening that each of us can experience. It calls us to rise above our base instincts, to embrace compassion, and to contribute to the restoration of balance and harmony in the world.
The timeless message of the Bhagavad Gita and the teachings of enlightened beings remind us that compassion is the key to overcoming darkness and restoring dharma. It urges us to look beyond ourselves, to see the interconnectedness of all life, and to act with love and understanding. In doing so, we become part of the divine force that Krishna speaks of, contributing to the creation of a world where righteousness prevails.
Tags: Compassion
