Bhagavad Gita 4.43

 

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 4, Verse 43 – The Power of Knowledge

Sanskrit Verse:

तस्मादज्ञानसंभूतं हृत्स्थं ज्ञानासिनाऽत्मनः |
छित्त्वैनं संशयं योगमातिष्ठोत्तिष्ठ भारत || ४.४३ ||

Transliteration:

Tasmād ajñāna-sambhūtaṁ hṛt-sthaṁ jñānāsinātmanaḥ |
Chittvainam saṁśayaṁ yogam ātiṣṭhottiṣṭha Bhārata || 4.43 ||

Translation:

Therefore, with the sword of knowledge, cut asunder the doubt that has arisen in your heart due to ignorance. O Bharata (Arjuna), establish yourself in yoga and rise!

"  अतः हे भारत (अर्जुन)! अपने हृदय में जो अज्ञान के कारण संशय उत्पन्न हुआ है, उसे ज्ञान रूपी तलवार से काट डालो। हे भारत (अर्जुन)! योग में स्थित हो जाओ और उठो ! "

---

Explanation of Verse 4.43

This verse is a powerful conclusion to Lord Krishna's teachings on the transformative nature of divine knowledge (jnana). Here, Krishna urges Arjuna to overcome his doubts and take action with clarity and confidence.

Key Themes in this Verse:

1. Eliminating Doubts with Knowledge:
   Krishna compares knowledge to a sword, which has the power to cut through ignorance and doubt. Doubts arise from confusion and misinformation, and the only way to dispel them is through the right understanding.

2. Knowledge Resides in the Heart:
   The verse highlights that ignorance exists within the heart. The heart (hṛt) is metaphorically used to signify deep-seated emotions, uncertainties, and attachments that cloud one’s judgment.

3. Taking a Stand in Yoga:
   Krishna tells Arjuna to establish himself in yoga, meaning he should act with wisdom and devotion, rather than being paralyzed by indecision. Yoga here refers to the path of disciplined action (Karma Yoga) and self-realization (Jnana Yoga).

4. Rising Beyond Fear and Hesitation:
   The final instruction is to "rise" (uttiṣṭha). This is both a physical and a mental call to action. It is a reminder that spiritual knowledge should lead to courageous and righteous actions in the world.

---

Practical Application of Verse 4.43

• Overcoming Self-Doubt: Just like Arjuna, we often find ourselves unsure about major decisions in life. This verse teaches that acquiring the right knowledge and wisdom can help us move forward with confidence.
• Power of Self-Inquiry: When faced with difficulties, questioning our beliefs and gaining the right perspective is essential for growth.
• Applying Wisdom in Action: True knowledge is not just theoretical—it must be applied in daily life through mindful and righteous actions.

---

Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 4.43 is a powerful reminder that knowledge is the key to dispelling ignorance and doubt. By understanding our true nature and purpose, we can act fearlessly and wisely in the world. Krishna's call to Arjuna is also a call to each one of us: to rise above confusion and walk the path of wisdom and righteousness.