Chapter 7 Verse 26
Jñāna Vijñāna Yog
वेदाहं समतीतानि वर्तमानानि चार्जुन। भविष्याणि च भूतानि मां तु वेद न कश्चन।।7.26।।
vedāhaṁ samatītāni vartamānāni chārjuna bhaviṣhyāṇi cha bhūtāni māṁ tu veda na kaśhchana
Word Meanings
| veda | know |
| aham | I |
| samatītāni | the past |
| vartamānāni | the present |
| cha | and |
| arjuna | Arjun |
| bhaviṣhyāṇi | the future |
| cha | also |
| bhūtāni | all living beings |
| mām | me |
| tu | but |
| veda | knows |
| na kaśhchana | no one |
Translation
I know, O Arjuna, the beings of the past, the present, and the future; however, no one knows Me.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
Krishna says he fully knows every being in the past, present, and future, but no one truly knows him. This points to a deep difference between the limited human mind and the infinite divine. We can study life and ourselves, but the whole reality of the divine goes beyond complete human understanding.
The verse asks for humility about our claims of knowing ultimate truth. It also comforts us: the one who cares for all things sees everything clearly and holds the world in balance. Knowing this can free us from the need to control or explain every outcome.
Life Application
- When you feel certain you have the final answer, pause and allow room for mystery; stay open to learning and correction.
- Trust that there is a larger intelligence guiding life; focus on doing your duty and acting with compassion rather than controlling results.
- Keep a simple daily practice (prayer, meditation, or selfless service) to connect with something greater than your own ideas.
Reflection Question
What belief or need for certainty can you let go of today to make space for humility and trust?