Chapter 4, Verse 42
तस्मादज्ञानसम्भूतं हृत्स्थं ज्ञानासिनात्मन: | छित्त्वैनं संशयं योगमातिष्ठोत्तिष्ठ भारत ॥42॥
tasmād ajñāna-sambhūtaṁ hṛt-sthaṁ jñānāsinātmanaḥ | chittvainaṁ saṁśayaṁ yogam ātiṣṭhottiṣṭha bhārata ||
"Therefore, O scion of Bharata, cutting asunder with the sword of wisdom this doubt of yours in the heart, born of ignorance, take recourse to yoga and arise."
Key Insight:
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 4.42 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 4.42 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
Detailed Meaning
In this concluding verse of the fourth chapter, Krishna identifies the root of Arjun's paralysis: doubt (samshaya) born from ignorance (ajnana). The 'heart' (hridaya) represents the seat of the subtle mind where emotions and convictions reside. Krishna commands the use of the 'sword of knowledge' (jnana-asi) to sever these doubts. He then urges Arjun to 'arise' (uttistha) and establish himself in 'Yoga' (karm-yoga), which is the integration of wisdom and action. This is a call to move from confusion to clarity and from stagnation to purposeful duty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core message of Gita 4.42?
Therefore, O scion of Bharata, cutting asunder with the sword of wisdom this doubt of yours in the heart, born of ignorance, take recourse to yoga and arise.