Chapter 13 Verse 33
Kṣhetra Kṣhetrajña Vibhāg Yog
यथा सर्वगतं सौक्ष्म्यादाकाशं नोपलिप्यते।सर्वत्रावस्थितो देहे तथाऽऽत्मा नोपलिप्यते।।13.33।।
yathā sarva-gataṁ saukṣhmyād ākāśhaṁ nopalipyate sarvatrāvasthito dehe tathātmā nopalipyate
Word Meanings
| yathā | as |
| sarva-gatam | all-pervading |
| saukṣhmyāt | due to subtlety |
| ākāśham | the space |
| na | not |
| upalipyate | is contaminated |
| sarvatra | everywhere |
| avasthitaḥ | situated |
| dehe | the body |
| tathā | similarly |
| ātmā | the soul |
| na | not |
| upalipyate | is contaminated |
Translation
As the all-pervading ether is not tainted, due to its subtlety, so the Self seated everywhere in the body is not tainted either.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
The verse compares the soul to space (ākāśa). Space fills everything but does not get touched or spoiled by what is inside it. It stays pure because it is subtle and wide.
In the same way, the inner Self lives everywhere in the body but is not harmed or stained by the body's actions, thoughts, or feelings. The Self is the quiet witness, not the small actor caught in pleasure or pain.
This teaches that your true nature is calm and untouched. When you stop identifying only with the body and mind, you find freedom and steady peace.
Life Application
- When strong emotions arise, pause and watch them for a moment as passing events, not as your true identity.
- Take short daily moments of quiet attention (even one minute) to feel the inner witness beyond thoughts and feelings.
- Do your tasks fully, but try not to cling to praise or blame; focus on right action, not on being defined by outcomes.
Reflection Question
Can I notice one feeling today without immediately calling it "me"?