Chapter 10 Verse 40
Vibhūti Yog
नान्तोऽस्ति मम दिव्यानां विभूतीनां परंतप। एष तूद्देशतः प्रोक्तो विभूतेर्विस्तरो मया।।10.40।।
nānto ’sti mama divyānāṁ vibhūtīnāṁ parantapa eṣha tūddeśhataḥ prokto vibhūter vistaro mayā
Word Meanings
| na | not |
| antaḥ | end |
| asti | is |
| mama | my |
| divyānām | divine |
| vibhūtīnām | manifestations |
| parantapa | Arjun, the conqueror of the enemies |
| eṣhaḥ | this |
| tu | but |
| uddeśhataḥ | just one portion |
| proktaḥ | declared |
| vibhūteḥ | of (my) glories |
| vistaraḥ | the breath of the topic |
| mayā | by me |
Translation
There is no end to My divine glories, O Arjuna, but this is a brief statement by Me of the particulars of My divine glory.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
Krishna tells Arjuna that His divine glories are endless. What He has spoken is only a small, brief account of that vast reality.
This teaches that the ultimate truth or divinity cannot be fully captured in words or concepts. Descriptions help point the way but never replace direct experience.
It also invites humility: accept that teachings are fragmentary, and remain open to deeper insight through practice and living, not only through knowledge.
Life Application
- Be comfortable with not knowing everything; let wonder and curiosity guide your practice.
- Use spiritual teachings as practical tools (meditation, service, prayer) rather than final answers.
- Focus on steady, honest action and inner growth instead of trying to explain or prove the whole truth.
Reflection Question
Which part of your spiritual life are you willing to leave as a mystery and explore through practice rather than explanation?