Chapter 10 Verse 33
Vibhūti Yog
अक्षराणामकारोऽस्मि द्वन्द्वः सामासिकस्य च। अहमेवाक्षयः कालो धाताऽहं विश्वतोमुखः।।10.33।।
अहमेवाक्षय: कालो धाताहं विश्वतोमुख: || 33|| akṣharāṇām a-kāro ’smi dvandvaḥ sāmāsikasya cha aham evākṣhayaḥ kālo dhātāhaṁ viśhvato-mukhaḥ
Word Meanings
| akṣharāṇām | amongst all letters |
| a-kāraḥ | the beginning letter “A” |
| asmi | I am |
| dvandvaḥ | the dual |
| sāmāsikasya | amongst grammatical compounds |
| cha | and |
| aham | I |
| eva | only |
| akṣhayaḥ | endless |
| kālaḥ | time |
| dhātā | amongst the creators |
| aham | I |
| viśhwataḥ-mukhaḥ | Brahma |
Translation
Among the letters of the alphabet, I am the letter 'A' and the dual among compounds. I am verily the inexhaustible and everlasting time; I am the dispenser of the fruits of actions, having faces in all directions.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
The verse points to the Lord as the original source. Calling Himself the letter "A" shows He is the first sound, the starting point of all words and all creation. Being the "dual among compounds" suggests He is the principle that joins and balances pairs — beginnings and endings, pleasure and pain.
He also says He is endless time and the maker of results. Time is the force that changes everything and brings about the consequences of our actions. As "having faces in all directions," He is present everywhere and carries out the law of cause and effect.
Spiritually, this teaches that the divine is both the origin and the operating law of life. Recognizing this helps us stay humble, aware, and steady in how we live.
Life Application
- Use time wisely: prioritize what truly matters today, because time brings results you cannot stop.
- Be mindful of speech and choices: small beginnings and words shape bigger outcomes.
- Act responsibly without clinging to immediate results; trust that right effort ripens over time.
Reflection Question
What one small choice can I make today that will bring steady benefit over time?