Bhagavad Gita Chapter 13 Verse 17 Meaning

Undivided yet, It exists as if divided in beings; It is to be known as the supporter of beings; It devours and It generates.

BG 13.17

अविभक्तं च भूतेषु विभक्तमिव च स्थितम्।भूतभर्तृ च तज्ज्ञेयं ग्रसिष्णु प्रभविष्णु च

avibhaktaṁ cha bhūteṣhu vibhaktam iva cha sthitam bhūta-bhartṛi cha taj jñeyaṁ grasiṣhṇu prabhaviṣhṇu cha

Meaning

Undivided yet, It exists as if divided in beings; It is to be known as the supporter of beings; It devours and It generates.

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What Does Bhagavad Gita 13.17 Mean?

Undivided yet, It exists as if divided in beings; It is to be known as the supporter of beings; It devours and It generates. This verse from Kshetra Kshetrajna Vibhaga Yoga speaks directly to the theme of nature and spirit, offering insight that deepens our understanding of the Gita's teaching. The verse operates on multiple levels. On the surface, it addresses Arjuna's immediate situation. At a deeper level, it articulates a universal principle about knowledge that applies to every person navigating the complexities of moral and spiritual life.

For the modern practitioner, this verse suggests a concrete experiment: approach today's responsibilities with the awareness this teaching describes. The Gita's promise is that even imperfect practice in the right direction yields real results.

— Explained by the Nitya Team

What Is the Context of Bhagavad Gita 13.17?

Understanding the body (field) and the soul (knower of the field).

Key themes in this chapter include Body and soul, Knowledge, Nature.

How Can I Apply Bhagavad Gita 13.17 in Daily Life?

  • When you need steadiness while dealing with body and soul
  • When practicing knowledge amid uncertainty
  • When applying nature to real-life choices

Verse FAQs

What is the main idea of Bhagavad Gita 13.17?
Undivided yet, It exists as if divided in beings; It is to be known as the supporter of beings; It devours and It generates. This verse from Kshetra Kshetrajna Vibhaga Yoga speaks directly to the theme of nature and spirit, offering insight that deepens our understanding of the Gita's teaching. The...
How can I apply Bhagavad Gita 13.17 in daily life?
Apply this teaching when making choices or doing your duties. Focus on knowledge and keep your mind steady regardless of outcomes.

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← Back to Chapter 13: The Yoga of the Field and Knower

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