Is Knowing God Truly Possible?
Often, we get so lost in the hustle of modern life that we forget where we are actually heading. In the previous sixth chapter, Lord Krishna explained the peak of meditation, where a yogi completely masters the mind. Now, in the seventh chapter, Sri Krishna opens a new door. Many people think that knowing God means simply reading stories or visiting temples. They assume that spirituality implies running away from the world. This is a misconception that distances us from our real goal.
Look at the world today—office stress, career anxiety, the constant pressure to appear better than others on social media. Amidst all this, have you ever felt a deep void? As if, even after having everything, something is missing? That emptiness exists because we are disconnected from the source. Krishna, at the start of this seventh chapter, invites us to a knowledge that isn't just academic—it's experiential.
Notice carefully; in the previous chapter, Krishna spoke of the characteristics of a 'yogi'. Now, he talks about 'Jñana-Vijñana Yoga' (Knowledge and Wisdom). Here, Krishna's tone shifts. He isn't just teaching a technique; he is introducing Himself. He says, "Know Me." But the question arises: can the infinite be known by a finite intellect? People often give up, thinking God-realization is for saints, not for common working professionals. But Krishna says—No! You, too, can know Me, provided you listen to Me in the right way.
We try to learn so many things in our daily lives—stock markets, new technology, what others are thinking. But have we ever tried to know the power behind every heartbeat? The first verse of the seventh chapter is an invitation to ignite that curiosity. This isn't just a sermon; it is a direct invitation to look beyond your limited perspective into the infinity of the universe.
Many young people ask me—"Is devotion just about being emotional? Does logic have a place?" In this chapter, Krishna explains how devotion and knowledge merge. He gives you a formula to know God while doing your job and fulfilling family responsibilities. This chapter is for those who seek logic, evidence, and a deeper meaning to their lives.
So, get ready. Today, we are embarking on a journey where we will understand Krishna not just as a guide, but as the 'Absolute Truth'. Knowing who God is will solve all your life's problems because once you know the source, the fear of the waves naturally vanishes.
॥ ७.१ ॥
श्रीभगवानुवाच
मय्यासक्तमनाः पार्थ योगं युञ्जन्मदाश्रयः ।
असंशयं समग्रं मां यथा ज्ञास्यसि तच्छृणु ॥
Simple Meaning and Analysis
In this verse, Lord Krishna addresses Arjuna. He says—'O Partha! With your mind attached to Me, taking refuge in Me, and practicing yoga, listen to how you will know Me completely, without any doubt.' Krishna sets three primary conditions here: 'Mayy-asakta-manah' (mind attached to Me), 'Mad-ashrayah' (taking refuge in Me), and 'Yogam yunjan' (practicing yoga).
Let’s break it down: Mayi (in Me), Asakta-manah (mind attached), Partha (O Arjuna), Yogam yunjan (practicing yoga), Mat-ashrayah (taking refuge in Me), Asamshayam (without doubt), Samagram (completely), Mam (Me), Yatha jnasyasi (how you will know), Tat shrinu (listen to that).
Krishna's message is profound. He suggests that if you treat God as just a small part of your life, you will never truly know Him. You must know Him 'samagram' (completely). And how is this possible? Only when you surrender your mind to Him and turn every action into a form of yoga.
Perspectives from the Acharyas
Swami Ramsukhdas Ji: Swami-ji emphasizes 'Mad-ashrayah'. He explains that until you fully surrender to God, the wanderings of the mind will not cease. He interprets 'Asamshayam' as a knowledge that leaves no room for doubt—a knowledge that stems from experience. He says, "As soon as you drop your ego, God reveals Himself to you."
A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada: Prabhupada views 'Mayy-asakta-manah' as Bhakti Yoga. He explains that being 'Krishna conscious' is the only way. He argues that we cannot know God through our material senses because He is divine. When we engage our minds in His service, He reveals Himself from within. For him, this verse is a scientific process of connecting human consciousness with the Divine.
Swami Mukundananda Ji: Swami-ji looks at it as practical training. He notes that we often treat God as a 'part-timer'. However, Krishna is asking for 'Mayy-asakta-manah'—a 24-hour connection. He uses the gym analogy—like building muscle requires repetitive exercise, steady practice of fixing the mind on God is 'Yoga'. He states— "Unless you bring God into your daily chores, your devotion remains incomplete."
Real-Life Application
Imagine you are under a deadline at the office. Your boss is yelling. Usually, you would get stressed. But if you adopt 'Mad-ashrayah' (refuge in God), what would you do? You work, you do it with all your might, but you don't worry about the outcome because you know your foundation is God. This is Yoga. It provides a protective shield against office politics and anxiety.
The same applies to meditation. When you try to sit and the mind wanders, don't scold yourself. Gently tell the mind—'I am sitting here for Krishna.' These small moments will gradually lead you to absolute knowledge.
Self Q&A
Q: Is knowing God difficult? A: Swami Ramsukhdas ji says—No, our ego makes it difficult. Surrender is the simplest path. Q: Do I have to leave everything? A: Swami Mukundananda ji says—No, just change your mindset. The work is the same; only the sense of 'doer' changes. Q: What does 'knowing completely' mean? A: Prabhupada explains—it means understanding both His universal form and His personal form. Q: Why does the mind wander? A: It's a lack of practice. Treat it as Yoga. Q: Is this practical? A: Absolutely, because it is the most powerful tool to reduce your daily stress.
🙏 Hare Krishna — Jai Shri Krishna 🙏
📖 Also Read: Feeling Lost? This is the Ultimate Path to Connect with Krishna 🧘♂️