Bhagavad Gita Verse 2.23

 

Bhagavad Gita Verse 2.23: The Immortality of the Soul

Sanskrit Verse:

नैनं छिन्दन्ति शस्त्राणि नैनं दहति पावकः |
न चैनं क्लेदयन्त्यापो न शोषयति मारुतः ||

Transliteration:

nainaṁ chindanti śastrāṇi nainaṁ dahati pāvakaḥ |
na cainaṁ kledayantyāpo na śoṣayati mārutaḥ ||

Translation:

Weapons do not cut this (soul), fire does not burn it,
Water does not wet it, and wind does not dry it.

" इसको शस्त्र नहीं काटते, इसको अग्नि नहीं जलाती, इसको जल नहीं भिगोता, इसको वायु नहीं सुखाती। "

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Meaning and Interpretation:

This verse from the Bhagavad Gita is a powerful statement on the immortality and indestructibility of the soul (Ātman). Lord Krishna, in his discourse to Arjuna, emphasizes that the soul is beyond material destruction and remains unaffected by physical forces.

Key Takeaways from the Verse:

1. The Soul is Eternal: Krishna asserts that the soul is beyond any form of physical harm. No weapon can cut it, no fire can burn it, and natural elements like water and air cannot alter or weaken it.
2. The Soul is Beyond the Material World: The verse highlights that the soul exists beyond the limitations of the material world, where everything undergoes change and destruction. Unlike the body, which is perishable, the soul remains unaffected.
3. Encouragement to Arjuna: By explaining the eternal nature of the soul, Krishna encourages Arjuna to overcome his fear of death. Since the soul is imperishable, he should not grieve over the temporary loss of the body.

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Philosophical Significance:

This verse is a core principle of Vedantic philosophy, emphasizing that:

• The body is temporary, but the soul is eternal.
• Fear of death is baseless because the true self never perishes.
• One should rise above material attachments and focus on spiritual wisdom.

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Practical Application in Life:

1. Overcoming Fear of Death: Understanding that the soul is eternal helps us face mortality with courage and peace.
2. Embracing Change: Just as the soul remains unaffected by external elements, we too can cultivate inner stability and resilience amidst life's challenges.
3. Spiritual Growth: This verse encourages us to seek self-realization, knowing that our true essence is beyond the physical body.

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Conclusion:

Bhagavad Gita 2.23 is a profound verse that reassures us about the indestructibility of the soul. It urges us to transcend material fears and embrace the wisdom of the eternal self. By realizing our true nature, we can lead a fearless, purposeful, and enlightened life.