Chapter 10, Verse 34
मृत्यु: सर्वहरश्चाहमुद्भवश्च भविष्यताम् | कीर्ति: श्रीर्वाक्च नारीणां स्मृतिर्मेधा धृति: क्षमा ॥34॥
mṛtyuḥ sarva-haraśh chāham udbhavaśh cha bhaviṣhyatām | kīrtiḥ śhrīr vāk cha nārīṇāṁ smṛti rmedhā dhṛtiḥ kṣhamā ||
"I am death, the all-devouring, and the origin of future beings; among women I am fame, fortune, speech, memory, intelligence, steadfastness, and patience."
Key Insight:
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 10.34 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 10.34 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
Detailed Meaning
In this verse, Shri Krishna reveals His presence in both the inevitable end and the promising beginning. He is 'Sarva-haraḥ' (the all-devourer), representing the destructive power of time. Simultaneously, He is the 'Udbhavaḥ' (source of evolution) for all that is yet to be. He specifically identifies with seven divine feminine virtues—Kirti (fame), Shri (prosperity/beauty), Vak (speech), Smriti (memory), Medha (intelligence), Dhriti (fortitude), and Kshama (forgiveness). These are not merely abstract concepts but are personified as the daughters of Daksha and Bhrigu, serving as the presiding deities of these psychological and social excellences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core message of Gita 10.34?
I am death, the all-devouring, and the origin of future beings; among women I am fame, fortune, speech, memory, intelligence, steadfastness, and patience.