Chapter 4 Verse 7
Jñāna Karm Sanyās Yog
यदा यदा हि धर्मस्य ग्लानिर्भवति भारत। अभ्युत्थानमधर्मस्य तदाऽऽत्मानं सृजाम्यहम्।।4.7।।
yadā yadā hi dharmasya glānir bhavati bhārata abhyutthānam adharmasya tadātmānaṁ sṛijāmyaham
Word Meanings
| yadā yadā | whenever |
| hi | certainly |
| dharmasya | of righteousness |
| glāniḥ | decline |
| bhavati | is |
| bhārata | Arjun, descendant of Bharat |
| abhyutthānam | increase |
| adharmasya | of unrighteousness |
| tadā | at that time |
| ātmānam | self |
| sṛijāmi | manifest |
| aham | I |
Translation
Whenever there is a decline of righteousness and an increase of unrighteousness, O Arjuna, then I manifest Myself.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse says that whenever goodness and right living decay and wrong increases, the Divine appears to restore balance. It comforts us with the idea that moral order is not abandoned; help comes when it is most needed.
On a personal level, the "manifestation" can be outer (a teacher, leader, or movement) or inner (an awakening of courage, conscience, and clarity). It means we are not helpless—when dharma falters, support arrives to guide action and renewal.
The verse also reminds us of our role: divine help calls for human response. The presence of support does not remove responsibility; it invites us to act rightly and be instruments of restoration.
Life Application
- Notice where fairness, kindness, or truth are weakening in your life or community; take small, concrete steps (speak up, help someone, refuse dishonesty).
- Build inner readiness through simple practices: pause, reflect, pray or breathe, and choose one selfless action each day.
- When you feel a rise in courage or clarity, use it—assist others, teach by example, and join efforts that restore goodness.
Reflection Question
Where in my life or community is righteousness weakening, and what one step can I take today to help restore it?