Chapter 11 of the Bhagavad Gita is known as "Vishwaroopa Darshana Yoga" or "The Yoga of the Vision of the Universal Form." In this chapter, Bhagavan Sri Krishna reveals his universal form (Vishwaroopa) to Arjuna, displaying his divine cosmic nature. Here is a summary of Bhagavad Gita Chapter 11:
Arjuna's Request: Arjuna, overwhelmed with doubt and
confusion about his duty in the battle, requests Krishna to reveal his divine
form. He wants to witness the true nature of the Supreme Being.
Krishna's Revelation: In response to Arjuna's request, Bhagavan
Sri Krishna grants him the divine vision to perceive his universal form. Arjuna
witnesses a cosmic display of the Bhagavan Sri's omnipotence, encompassing the
entire universe and beyond. The form is awe-inspiring and terrifying, with
numerous faces, eyes, and divine manifestations.
Description of the Universal Form: Arjuna sees various gods,
celestial beings, and warriors entering and being consumed by the vast cosmic
form of Krishna. He observes the destruction and creation of worlds, the cosmic
cycles of time, and the omnipresence of the divine.
Arjuna's Reaction: Overwhelmed by the immense and terrifying
spectacle, Arjuna realizes the magnitude of Krishna's divine power. He sees the
dual nature of Krishna as both the creator and destroyer, understanding that
all living beings are ultimately under the control of the Supreme.
Prayer and Surrender: Arjuna, acknowledging Krishna as the
ultimate reality and the source of all beings, praises and seeks forgiveness
for any offenses he may have committed. He expresses his surrender to Krishna
and requests the Bhagavan Sri to return to his more familiar and comforting
human form.
Krishna's Comforting Words: Krishna reassures Arjuna,
explaining the significance of his universal form. He emphasizes the importance
of devotion, faith, and surrender in realizing the ultimate truth. Krishna
explains that the vision of the universal form is a rare and profound experience
granted to Arjuna due to his devotion.
Conclusion: The chapter concludes with Krishna encouraging Arjuna to perform his duties with unwavering devotion and dedication. He instructs Arjuna to act as an instrument of the divine will and assures him that victory is already assured in the battle.
In Bhagavad Gita Chapter 11, the universal form represents the all-encompassing, transcendental nature of the Supreme Being, and the chapter highlights the importance of devotion and surrender on the spiritual path.