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Chapter 7 • Verse 11
The Yoga of Knowledge and Wisdom
MEANING & CONTEXT
Krishna describes His manifestations in strength and desire. 'Balaṁ balavatāṁ cāham kāma-rāga-vivarjitam'—I am the strength of the strong, devoid of desire and passion. Krishna's strength is pure, free from attachment. 'Dharmāviruddho bhūteṣu kāmo 'smi'—I am desire in beings that is not contrary to righteousness. This is crucial: Krishna is not desire itself, but righteous desire—desire aligned with dharma (duty/righteousness). This verse shows the distinction between pure strength (Krishna's strength) and attachment-driven strength, and between righteous desire and unrighteous desire. Krishna manifests as the pure source of strength and as righteous desire.
Explore Human Experiences
How this ancient wisdom applies to your daily life
Key Takeaway
You experience strength—physical, mental, emotional. You also experience desire—wants, needs, aspirations. You think: 'Is strength always good? Is desire always problematic?' This verse addresses that question. Krishna says: I am the strength of the strong, devoid of desire and passion. I am desire in beings that is not contrary to righteousness. There's pure strength (free from attachment) and attachment-driven strength. There's righteous desire (aligned with dharma) and unrighteous desire. Understanding this distinction transforms how you see strength and desire.
Personal Reflection
When you experience strength—do you see it as pure strength free from attachment, or as attachment-driven strength? When you experience desire—do you see it as righteous desire aligned with dharma, or as unrighteous desire?
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