Chapter 15 Verse 17
Puruṣhottam Yog
उत्तमः पुरुषस्त्वन्यः परमात्मेत्युदाहृतः।यो लोकत्रयमाविश्य बिभर्त्यव्यय ईश्वरः।।15.17।।
uttamaḥ puruṣhas tv anyaḥ paramātmety udāhṛitaḥ yo loka-trayam āviśhya bibharty avyaya īśhvaraḥ
Word Meanings
| uttamaḥ | the Supreme |
| puruṣhaḥ | Divine Personality |
| tu | but |
| anyaḥ | besides |
| parama-ātmā | the Supreme Soul |
| iti | thus |
| udāhṛitaḥ | is said |
| yaḥ | who |
| loka trayam | the three worlds |
| āviśhya | enters |
| bibharti | supports |
| avyayaḥ | indestructible |
| īśhvaraḥ | the controller |
Translation
But distinct is the Supreme Purusha, called the highest Self, indestructible and Lord, who pervades the three worlds and sustains them.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse points to a Supreme Being who is different from individual selves. He is called the highest Self — eternal, indestructible, and the Lord.
He is present everywhere and within everything, and yet he also supports and sustains the whole of creation. The line highlights both his immanence (present in all) and his transcendence (beyond all).
Life Application
- Remember a larger presence when you feel small or alone; it can give steady courage and calm.
- Act responsibly knowing life is supported by a single reality — treat others and the world with care and respect.
- Trust that even when things change, an inner steadiness remains; use that trust to face challenges without panic.
Reflection Question
Where in my daily life can I feel or rely on a steady inner presence beyond changing situations?