What is the Real Meaning of Knowledge and Science?
In the previous verse, Lord Krishna assured Arjuna that focusing the mind exclusively on Him removes all doubts. Today, in the second verse of the seventh chapter, Krishna takes a step further. We often think that 'knowledge' is merely academic or spiritual information. But here, Krishna talks about something that touches every aspect of modern life. Have you ever felt that your career, studies, or relationships are just parts of life, yet something feels deeply incomplete? We think that if we gain a bit more 'knowledge,' everything will be perfect. But Krishna is talking about a knowledge that, once known, leaves nothing left to be known.
We often remain entangled in what is important and what is not. The noise of social media, the rat race of the corporate world, and the complexities of relationships consume our minds so much that we forget the fundamental purpose of existence. We feel we know everything. We know how to earn money, how to survive in society, and how to get our way. We call this 'knowledge.' But is this truly knowledge? Or is it just a pile of information?
Today's youth are in a state of mental confusion. We watch 'how-to' videos, but we have lost the 'why'—the core purpose of life. Krishna is teaching us exactly that. When you seek refuge in Krishna, He doesn't just give you mantras; He gives you the lens of 'knowledge' and 'science' to see the world as it truly is. This verse is for those who are seeking truth but are wandering in the wrong direction.
Many people believe that spirituality means renouncing the world. This is the biggest misconception. People think that to follow Krishna, one must leave their job or abandon their loved ones. The truth is that Krishna Himself says, 'I will give you knowledge after which nothing remains unknown.' This means you can attain that supreme truth while working, studying, and living your life.
When you dive deep into this verse, you will realize that Krishna is not asking for a heavy sacrifice, but for a shift in perspective—a perspective where you see every action as an offering. This verse is the answer to all your worries and anxieties—it is about completeness. Let us journey today where we use Krishna's words to direct our lives toward a new path.
ज्ञानं तेऽहं सविज्ञानं इदं वक्ष्याम्यशेषतः।
यज्ज्ञात्वा नेह भूयोऽन्यज्ज्ञातव्यमवशिष्यते॥ ७.२ ॥
Simple Meaning and Depth
In this verse, the Lord says: 'Gyanam te aham savijnanam' (I shall explain to you knowledge along with science), 'Idam vakshyami asheshatah' (I will tell you this completely), 'Yat jnatva' (by knowing which), 'Iha' (in this world), 'Bhuyah anyat jnatavyam' (anything else that needs to be known) 'Na avashishyate' (does not remain). The simple meaning is that by knowing this supreme knowledge, one will have nothing left to know in this entire world.
Here, Krishna uses two terms: 'Gyan' (Knowledge) and 'Vijnan' (Science/Realization). 'Gyan' refers to theoretical understanding—realizing that I am the soul and a part of the Divine. 'Vijnan' refers to the practical experience—feeling this truth in every moment of life. This is not just bookish knowledge; it is an experience. When you face stress in the office but remain calm internally, you have applied the 'science' of knowledge correctly.
There are three main aspects: First, Krishna's assurance—He says He will speak 'asheshatah,' meaning without hiding anything. Second, the harmony of knowledge and science—not just memorizing, but realizing. Third, the sense of completeness—once you have this knowledge, you stop wandering because you have reached the source.
The Perspective of Swami Ramsukhdas Ji
Swami Ramsukhdas Ji Maharaj places special emphasis on the word 'asheshatah' in this verse. He says the Lord is not giving partial knowledge; He is talking about completeness. According to Swamiji, whatever we learn in this world—engineering, medicine, or any other skill—is 'incomplete' because it changes over time. But the knowledge Krishna gives is eternal.
Swamiji explains that 'Vijnan' means the direct experience of the Lord's form. When we say 'savijnanam,' it means that merely accepting the Lord's existence is not enough. We must experience Him everywhere and in every situation. Swamiji says that the day you realize this world is a manifestation of the Lord, all your worldly desires vanish because you no longer crave anything else.
He further adds that when the Lord says 'nothing remains to be known,' it means that after knowing this supreme truth, you will never need to seek answers from anyone else. This knowledge makes you aware of your own 'Self.' The core of Swamiji's teachings is to build a relationship with the Lord, and everything else will become clear by itself.
A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada’s Devotional Angle
Prabhupada keeps this verse at the center of Bhakti Yoga. According to him, 'Gyan' means understanding the Lord's glories, and 'Vijnan' means engaging in His service. Prabhupada emphasizes that Krishna is self-manifested and is the source of all knowledge. He says that without taking refuge in Krishna, one's knowledge can never be complete.
Prabhupada often calls this 'Guhyatam' knowledge—it is the most confidential, yet Krishna is revealing it for Arjuna. He explains that those who are materialistic remain limited to 'Gyan,' but devotees experience 'Vijnan'—they feel the personal, loving relationship with Krishna.
Prabhupada emphasizes that Krishna Consciousness is the science. When you perform all your duties for Krishna, you automatically become wise. This is not a difficult penance; it is the science of love. According to him, the day a person understands that 'Krishna is everything,' all their inquisitiveness ends.
Modern Application by Swami Mukundananda
Swami Mukundananda explains this verse in a very practical way. He says our mind is always looking for 'more.' We think if we get another degree or another promotion, we will be satisfied. But Krishna says that by knowing His knowledge, you will have no desire left to attain anything else. This is the science of 'satisfaction.'
Mukundananda compares this to a 'software update.' He says our life's 'hardware' is material, but our 'software' (knowledge) is incomplete. When we apply Krishna's knowledge to our lives, our entire perspective gets updated. You will do the same work—go to the office, take care of your family—but your viewpoint will have changed.
He says 'Vijnan' means 'how to apply.' If you know that the Divine resides within you, you will never fall into loneliness or depression. This is the biggest mantra for today's youth. According to Swamiji, this knowledge gives you 'inner strength' so that you remain steady even during the ups and downs of life.
Applying in Daily Life
Imagine you are working on a tough project at the office. There is pressure from the boss and deadlines are looming. You are panicked inside. What is 'knowledge' here? Understanding that you are not just a body or a job title; you are a soul. And what is 'science'? Bringing that peace into your work. When you drop the anxiety and work as an 'offering to Krishna,' the quality of your work changes.
The second example is meditation. You sit with your eyes closed, and the mind wanders. You bring it back. The cycle repeats. When you repeatedly bring your mind back to the form of the Divine, that is 'science.' This practice will lead you to the day where you can say, 'I have nothing else to know.'
The same applies to relationships. When you are angry at someone, remember that 'science' says—the other person also has a spark of Krishna. This thought will free you from anger. This is not a theoretical concept; it must be tested every single moment.
Your Questions, Our Answers
1. Can this knowledge really free me from office stress?
Yes. Swami Mukundananda says that when you perform your duty as a 'service to God,' you are not worried about the results. You give your best, and leave the rest to Krishna.
2. What is the specific meaning of the term 'Vijnan' here?
According to Swami Ramsukhdas Ji, it is not just information. It is the direct experience of the Divine. It is like reading about a fruit (knowledge) vs. tasting that fruit (science).
3. Is this knowledge incomplete without Bhakti?
Prabhupada clarifies that many people attain knowledge, but without Bhakti, it remains dry logic. Bhakti is the energy that translates knowledge into life.
4. How long do I have to practice this?
Until your mind is completely stabilized in Krishna. This is a journey, not a destination. Progress happens gradually; just don't turn back.
5. Do I have to leave everything and go to seclusion?
Not at all. This knowledge is meant to connect you with the Divine 'right where you are.' Your household is your place of practice.
🙏 Hare Krishna — Jai Shri Krishna 🙏
📖 Also Read: Is Knowing God Really Possible? Starting Your Journey with 7.1 🚩