Chapter 10 Verse 36
Vibhūti Yog
द्यूतं छलयतामस्मि तेजस्तेजस्विनामहम्। जयोऽस्मि व्यवसायोऽस्मि सत्त्वं सत्त्ववतामहम्।।10.36।।
dyūtaṁ chhalayatām asmi tejas tejasvinām aham jayo ’smi vyavasāyo ’smi sattvaṁ sattvavatām aham
Word Meanings
| dyūtam | gambling |
| chhalayatām | of all cheats |
| asmi | I am |
| tejaḥ | the splendor |
| tejasvinām | of the splendid |
| aham | I |
| jayaḥ | victory |
| asmi | I am |
| vyavasāyaḥ | firm resolve |
| asmi | I am |
| sattvam | virtue |
| sattva-vatām | of the virtuous |
| aham | I |
Translation
I am the gambling of the deceitful; I am the splendor of the splendid; I am victory; I am the resolve of the resolute; I am the goodness of the good.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse shows that the divine is present in many human tendencies—both dark and bright. Even the urge for quick gain or trickery (the "gambling" of the deceitful) comes from the same source and can be seen, named, and understood.
At the same time, the divine is the visible power in those who shine (splendor), the inner strength that wins (victory), and the steady determination that carries action through (resolve). These are qualities to develop through right effort.
Finally, goodness itself is a divine quality. Recognizing the divine spark in our virtues and faults invites us to choose and cultivate what leads to growth, while gently restraining what leads us astray.
Life Application
- When tempted by shortcuts or dishonest gain, pause and ask what you really want; naming the impulse helps you avoid it.
- Build resolve with small, steady steps—set one clear goal and do one consistent action each day.
- Use your talents and success to serve others; let your “splendor” be humble and useful.
Reflection Question
Which quality do I most need to strengthen or restrain in my life today?