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Chapter 13

The Yoga of the Field and the Knower of the Field

Kshetra Kshetrajna Vibhaga Yoga

The distinction between the body (field) and the soul (knower) is explained. Understanding this difference leads to liberation.

bodysoulknowledgeconsciousness
4 lessons from 34 verses

Featured Lessons

Amanitvam adambhitvam ahimsa kshantir arjavam, acharyopasanam shaucham sthairyam atma-vinigrahah

Humility, unpretentiousness, non-violence, forgiveness, simplicity, approaching a bona fide spiritual master, cleanliness, steadiness, and self-control.

Key Teachings

  • Cultivate essential spiritual virtues
  • Character development is foundational
  • Practice humility and self-control
Kshetra-jnam chapi mam viddhi sarva-kshetreshu bharata, kshetra-kshetrajnayor jnanam yat taj jnanam matam mama

O Arjuna, understand that I am the knower of the field in all fields. Knowledge of the field and its knower I regard as true knowledge.

Key Teachings

  • God is the witness in all beings
  • Understanding self and body is wisdom
  • The divine knower pervades all
Jneyam yat tat pravakshyami yaj jnatvamrtam ashnute, anadimat param brahma na sat tan nasad ucyate

I shall now describe that which is to be known, knowing which one attains immortality. It is beginningless supreme Brahman, which is said to be neither being nor non-being.

Key Teachings

  • Knowledge of Brahman leads to immortality
  • The absolute transcends categories
  • Beyond existence and non-existence
Yavat sanjayate kinchit sattvam sthavara-jangamam, kshetra-kshetrajña-samyogat tad viddhi bharatarshabha

Know, O Arjuna, that whatever being, moving or non-moving, is born, it is from the union between the field and the knower of the field.

Key Teachings

  • All creation stems from consciousness and matter
  • The interplay of spirit and material
  • Understanding the basis of existence