Chapter 8 Verse 13

Uttering the one-syllabled Om, the Brahman, and remembering Me, he who departs, leaving the body, attains the Supreme Goal.

Core Meaning

This verse says that speaking or holding in mind the one-syllable "Om" as the symbol of the formless Absolute, while remembering the personal Divine (Krishna), helps the soul reach the highest goal when the body is left. "Om" points to the unchanging reality; remembering God gives a living, loving focus to that reality.

The key idea is that the last moments of life shape where the mind goes next. If the mind is trained to turn to the Divine—through a simple sound and sincere remembrance—then at death it naturally moves toward union with the Supreme.

It also teaches that spiritual practice is not only theory. Small, steady habits of remembering God or chanting Om create the inner habit that carries you through big things like death, leading to peace and a deeper goal.

Life Application

• Make a short daily habit: quietly say "Om" or your chosen Divine name for a few breaths each morning and evening to build a calm, focused mind.
• Use simple reminders during the day (a breath, a glance at a symbol, a phrase) to bring your attention back to the Divine so remembering becomes natural.
• Before sleep or in moments of fear, pause and mentally repeat "Om" or your chosen name to steady the mind and train your ending-moment awareness.

Reflection Question

What small daily practice will you commit to so that your last thoughts are calm and centered on the Divine?