Chapter 11 Verse 44

Therefore, bowing down and prostrating my body, I crave Thy forgiveness, O adorable Lord. As a father forgives his son, a friend his dear friend, a lover his beloved, even so may Thou forgive me, O God.

Core Meaning

Arjuna bows fully and asks the Lord’s forgiveness, showing deep humility after seeing the divine form. He admits his smallness and asks for pardon for any mistake made in awe or confusion.

The verse uses familiar relationships—father, friend, lover—to show that God can forgive in a caring, personal way. Forgiveness here is not just pardon, but the healing of the heart so one can return to right action and clear devotion.

Bowing and offering the body means surrendering the ego and accepting divine guidance. True devotion includes honest humility, asking for forgiveness, and trusting in the Lord’s compassionate response.

Life Application

• Begin or end the day with a short humble prayer: admit mistakes, ask forgiveness, and renew your intention to act honestly.
• When you hurt someone, apologize simply and directly—this clears the way for healing and keeps relationships honest.
• Practice seeing the divine in a caring role (parent, friend, beloved) to make surrender and trust easier in daily life.

Reflection Question

Who do you need to sincerely ask forgiveness from today—another person, yourself, or the Divine?