Bhagavad Gita 4.7

 

Bhagavad Gita 4.7: The Divine Promise of Lord Krishna

Sanskrit Verse:

यदा यदा हि धर्मस्य ग्लानिर्भवति भारत।
अभ्युत्थानमधर्मस्य तदात्मानं सृजाम्यहम्॥

Transliteration:

Yadā yadā hi dharmasya glānir bhavati bhārata,
Abhyutthānam adharmasya tadātmānaṁ sṛjāmyaham.

Translation:

"Whenever there is a decline in righteousness and an increase in unrighteousness, O Bharata (Arjuna), at that time I manifest Myself."

" हे भारत (अर्जुन), जब-जब धर्म की हानि होती है और अधर्म की वृद्धि होती है, तब-तब मैं प्रकट होता हूँ। " 

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Understanding Bhagavad Gita 4.7

This verse is one of the most significant teachings of Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita. It encapsulates the eternal principle of divine intervention in the universe whenever righteousness (Dharma) is threatened by the rise of evil (Adharma).

1. Meaning and Context

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna is in a moral dilemma about fighting in the war. Lord Krishna, as his divine guide, explains that He incarnates whenever Dharma (righteousness) declines and Adharma (unrighteousness) rises. This assures humanity that God always upholds justice and restores balance.

2. Key Interpretations

• Cyclical Restoration of Dharma: The verse suggests that cosmic balance is disrupted at times, necessitating divine intervention.
• Avatara (Incarnation) Principle: Krishna highlights that He takes a physical form (Avatar) to protect righteousness and guide humanity.
• Moral Responsibility: This verse also reminds individuals to uphold righteousness in their lives, as Dharma is the foundation of a just society.

3. Application in Modern Life

• Ethical Leadership: Just as Krishna intervened to establish justice, leaders today must uphold truth and righteousness.
• Hope and Reassurance: The verse reassures that no matter how dark times may seem, righteousness will always be restored.
• Spiritual Evolution: Every individual has a duty to act with honesty, integrity, and compassion in their personal and professional life.

4. Related Verses and Teachings

The next verse (4.8) further elaborates on Krishna’s mission:
"Paritrāṇāya sādhūnāṁ vināśhāya cha duṣhkṛitām" – meaning He appears to protect the good and destroy evil.

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Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 4.7 is a timeless reminder of divine justice. It reassures us that no matter how much Adharma seems to rise, the cosmic order will always be restored. By following the path of righteousness in our own lives, we contribute to a world of truth, justice, and harmony.