Much Is Possible – In Gita Verse 18.63 Thus I have explained to you knowledge still more confidential. Deliberate on this fully, and then do what you wish to do.
In Bhagavad Gita Verse 18.63, Krishna imparts to Arjuna profound and confidential knowledge, urging him to deliberate thoroughly before making any decisions. This verse encapsulates the essence of Krishna’s teachings and the sacred relationship between a Guru and disciple.
Krishna refers to this knowledge as “the most secret of all secrets,” highlighting its profound and esoteric nature. Unlike common religious teachings that are more straightforward and accessible, this knowledge requires deep intimacy and understanding between the Guru and the disciple. It is not something that can be easily comprehended by everyone, which is why it remains confidential and is only shared in a close, respectful relationship.
The term “Upanishad” signifies this secret knowledge. Each chapter of the Gita concludes with a reference to the Upanishad, emphasising the deep connection and unity between the Guru and the disciple, where the same consciousness flows through both. This intimate bond allows for the transmission of the most profound truths of life.
Krishna advises Arjuna to contemplate this knowledge in its entirety, without haste or partiality. Our minds often have the tendency to accept what resonates with us and dismiss what does not, leading to confusion and erroneous decisions. Krishna emphasises the importance of considering the whole teaching before acting upon it.
Krishna does not impose his will on Arjuna. Instead, he provides a comprehensive understanding and urges Arjuna to think deeply and make his own decision. This approach reflects the true essence of a Guru’s guidance, which is to illuminate the path and then step aside, allowing the disciple to choose their course of action.
The concept of thought and contemplation is crucial here. When the mind is cluttered with numerous thoughts, true contemplation becomes impossible. It is only in a state of thoughtlessness, akin to a calm, reflective lake, that genuine insight and understanding can arise. This state of thoughtlessness is akin to meditation, where the mind is free from the chaos of thoughts and can clearly reflect the truth.
True understanding and action arise from a state of inner clarity and thoughtlessness. Krishna has imparted all knowledge, holding nothing back, to ensure that Arjuna has a complete understanding of the situation. This knowledge is considered secret because it carries inherent dangers if misunderstood or misapplied. For instance, one might live a worldly life while deceiving oneself into believing they have renounced desires, leading to hypocrisy and self-deception.
The Guru’s role is to clarify and then step back, allowing the disciple to see and act from their own understanding. Krishna’s happiness lies in Arjuna’s ability to see clearly and make his own decision, whether it be to fight or renounce the war. This clarity of vision is what Krishna aims to impart to Arjuna.
After deep contemplation, Arjuna understood that events are not solely driven by individual actions. This realisation dispelled the illusion that personal effort alone determines outcomes. He recognized that everything unfolds as part of a greater whole, beyond his control. If war was destined, it would happen; otherwise, he would choose asceticism. True renunciation or Sanyas, lies in surrendering to a higher will, aligning with the divine, and letting go of personal desires, whether engaged in worldly activities or withdrawn from them.
Krishna emphasises that surrender is crucial, not as submission to an external force but as profound inner trust and relaxation. It involves viewing life as an ally, merging with its natural flow. This trust fundamentally transforms life, fostering joy and a sense of unity with the universe.
Different religious traditions approach the concept of surrender in various ways. Some, like Christianity and Islam, emphasise surrender to God, while others, like Buddhism and Jainism, focus on the inner state of surrender without the need for an external deity. The essence of surrender remains the same: it is about relaxing, accepting, and trusting the flow of life. Much is possible if you allow it. However, to allow is arduous, because to allow, you must surrender. Emptiness means surrender.
True surrender entails releasing the mind’s resistance and calculations, allowing the authentic self to surface. It is a process of shedding the false self to reveal the true self, leading to a state of being unbound by individual limitations and becoming a conduit for the infinite power of existence. In this state, actions are performed without resistance or judgement, even in conflict, as they align with the greater flow of life.
Krishna urges Arjuna to follow his inner emptiness and make a choice based on his own understanding and clarity. This profound teaching highlights the importance of inner surrender and trust in navigating the complexities of life and making meaningful decisions.
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