Are You Losing Your Essence? Krishna Reveals Who You Truly Are
In the previous verse, Lord Krishna explained to Arjuna that He is the taste in water and the light of the sun and moon. Moving forward from there, today we reach the ninth verse of the seventh chapter. Often, we feel incredibly incomplete in our lives. We feel lonely, misunderstood, or perhaps useless. The emptiness that creeps in during the morning rush to the office or while watching someone else's 'perfect' life on social media is the biggest malady facing today's youth.
We often think that we possess no special talent. People believe that success is only defined by big rewards or a fat bank balance. But have you ever wondered where that 'something' inside you comes from? Whether it is your talent for speaking, your ability to work hard, or your calm temperament—where did it originate? We live under the illusion that we are doing everything on our own or that we are completely alone in this world.
Today's verse is here to shatter that misconception. Krishna reminds us that we are not just mere puppets of clay. Everything 'original' inside you, everything 'pure', and everything 'alive' is actually a spark of His own energy. This verse is not just a religious mantra; it is the key to reclaiming your lost self-confidence. When you realize that the capability within you is a divine power, arrogance vanishes, and inferiority complex disappears.
Many people today are struggling with depression and anxiety because they view themselves as small. They constantly compare themselves with those flaunting their success. They forget that every human being has a divine spark hidden within. This verse teaches us that whatever is sustainable and beautiful in this world finds its foundation in Krishna. Let us delve deep into what Krishna says in this verse.
पुण्यो गन्धः पृथिव्यां च तेजश्चास्मि विभावसौ। जीवनं सर्वभूतेषु तपश्चास्मि तपस्विषु ॥ ७.९ ॥
Simple Meaning: Where Does Krishna Exist Within Us?
In this verse, Lord Krishna describes four main areas where He perceives Himself. First, 'Punyo gandhah prithivyam'—the original, natural fragrance of the earth is Me. Second, 'Tejashchasmi vibhavasau'—the potency of heat within fire is Me. Third, 'Jivanam sarvabhuteshu'—the life force within all living beings is Me. And fourth, 'Tapaschasmi tapasvishushu'—the power of austerity in those who practice it is Me.
Let us break it down word by word: 'Punyah' (pure/original) 'Gandhah' (fragrance) 'Prithivyam' (in the earth). Krishna says that the natural, sweet scent of the earth is His own form. 'Tejah cha' (and the radiance/heat) 'Asmi' (I am) 'Vibhavasau' (in fire). The burning quality of fire is Krishna. 'Jivanam' (life) 'Sarvabhuteshu' (in all living beings). 'Tapah cha' (and austerity) 'Asmi' (I am) 'Tapasvishushu' (in the ascetics).
There are three key takeaways: First, whatever is 'real' and 'pure' in this world is a form of the Divine. Second, the source of life and power is not outside, but deep within us. Third, instead of attributing your talents (whether it be hard work or austerity) to your ego, you should recognize them as divine grace. This is the essence of the verse that transforms you into a better person.
Deep Insights from Great Acharyas
Swami Ramsukhdas Ji Maharaj: Swami Ji explains that 'Punyo gandhah' refers to the fragrance that is inherent and natural. He emphasizes that when Krishna says 'I am', He does not mean He enters the earth from somewhere else; rather, He is already pervading it. Swami Ji highlights that we are often focused on external things, whereas we should recognize the 'quality' within those things as being divine. When we start seeing the Divine in everything, we feel ashamed to commit sins. If the fragrance of the earth is divine, would we pollute it? Swami Ji’s perspective makes us responsible individuals who learn to respect nature and our own lives.
A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada: Prabhupada interprets this through the lens of pure devotion. He notes that the original scent of the earth should remind us of Krishna. He sheds special light on 'Jivanam sarvabhuteshu', explaining that the soul within every living entity is connected to the Supreme. He teaches that all the experiences of life we undergo are manifestations of Krishna’s energy. According to Prabhupada, when a devotee touches the earth or witnesses fire, they should be reminded of Krishna. This is 'Krishna Consciousness'. He teaches us how to turn our daily lives into meditation, where everything reminds us of the Lord.
Swami Mukundananda Ji: Swami Mukundananda provides very practical examples for modern youth. He uses the analogy that electricity is the same, but it produces light in a bulb and heat in a heater; similarly, God is the same, but His power manifests in different forms. He connects 'Tapaschasmi tapasvishushu' to modern life, noting that when you sweat in the gym or work late nights in the office to meet a deadline, the power of that 'resolve' is coming from Krishna. Swami Ji suggests that whenever you feel like giving up, remember that the inner strength you have is a spark of Krishna. This gives you a significant mental boost.
Daily Life and This Verse
Imagine you are sitting in the office. There is a mountain of work, pressure from your boss, and you are feeling drained. You feel like you cannot possibly complete the task. At that moment, remember this verse. 'Jivanam sarvabhuteshu'—the breath running through you, the power to think and process information, is not purely your own; it is divine energy. When you think this way, stress begins to subside. You start viewing yourself as an 'instrument' through which the divine power is working.
Second example: Suppose you are deeply troubled by someone—a relative or a friend who is belittling you. You are burning with anger. At that moment, remember 'Tejashchasmi vibhavasau'. The quality of fire is to burn, but also to provide light. Are you spending your energy on burning (anger) or providing light (positivity)? This verse inspires you to use your energy correctly.
We live in the era of social media. Everyone is showcasing their 'best life'. You may feel inferior in your simplicity. Remember, 'Punyo gandhah prithivyam'—true fragrance lies in simplicity. There is no fragrance in artificiality. When you stay connected to your roots, to your reality, you spread an authentic scent. This verse gives you the courage to move away from the world of pretense and live in your 'originality'.
This is also highly effective during meditation. When the mind wanders, tell yourself that the life within you is a spark of Krishna. I am merely experiencing that spark. This thought brings you back to your center. It is not some arduous penance; it is a simple way of connecting your existence with the Divine.
Your Questions Answered
Question: Is it just my problem that I feel incomplete?
Answer: Swami Ramsukhdas Ji says this is a universal human struggle because we identify primarily with the body. When we look beyond the body to the 'spark' (which is divine), we experience wholeness. You are never alone; you are accompanied by the Creator of the universe.
Question: Does God exist even in evil things?
Answer: Swami Mukundananda clarifies that God exists in qualities (like austerity, life). Evil is merely the absence or misuse of these qualities. God is pure essence. When you succumb to evil, you are distancing yourself from these divine qualities.
Question: Ego creeps in while working hard, how do I stop it?
Answer: Prabhupada suggests accepting that the 'strength for austerity' is not yours. You are merely a medium for that power. When success comes, dedicate it to Krishna. As soon as you replace 'I' with 'Krishna', ego automatically vanishes.
Question: How can I see God in the daily hustle?
Answer: Swami Mukundananda suggests that before starting any task, take a moment to realize that the power to perform that task is being provided by God. This small practice can transform your entire day.
Question: Can I use this verse during difficult times?
Answer: Absolutely. Whenever you feel your courage fading, remember that as 'Jivanam sarvabhuteshu', God is alive within you. He never gives up, so the strength within you can never be exhausted. You just need to re-awaken that power.
🙏 Hare Krishna — Jai Shri Krishna 🙏
📖 Also Read: Is Krishna Really In Everything? Decoding Gita 7.8 🌸