Bhagavad Gita 10.18
Vibhuti Yoga · English Translation
विस्तरेणात्मनो योगं विभूतिं च जनार्दन | भूयः कथय तृप्तिर्हि शृण्वतो नास्ति मेऽमृतम् ||१०-१८||
vistareṇātmano yogaṃ vibhūtiṃ ca janārdana . bhūyaḥ kathaya tṛptirhi śṛṇvato nāsti me.amṛtam ||10-18||
What Does This Verse Mean?
In this verse, Arjuna asks Lord Krishna to elaborate further on the divine glories and yogic powers of God. He addresses Krishna as Janardana (the destroyer of suffering) and expresses that he is not yet satisfied with what he has heard so far. The key teaching is that listening to spiritual truths feels like drinking nectar, creating an endless desire for more wisdom rather than fullness.
The Teaching Behind It
This verse belongs primarily to the strand of Bhakti Yoga (the path of devotion) and Jnana Yoga (the path of knowledge), illustrating that true spiritual wisdom is inexhaustible. It develops the concept that the divine nature, though infinite in glory, can be perceived as a source of endless joy for the sincere seeker who listens with an open heart.
Word by Word
Classical Commentary
Where This Happens
This verse occurs in Chapter 10 during the conversation on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, where Arjuna has already requested an overview of Krishna's divine manifestations (Vibhuti). After hearing about how God pervades various elements and beings, Arjuna is so captivated by the depth of this knowledge that he feels a spiritual hunger. The context captures the moment of deep devotion (Bhakti) where the disciple realizes there are infinite layers to understand about the Supreme Being.
Living It Out Today
Consider a professional facing burnout who finds solace in reading motivational literature or listening to wisdom from mentors; they might feel that one article is not enough and keeps seeking more insights to sustain their spirit. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by information, this thirst for knowledge becomes fuel for resilience during difficult decisions. The application teaches us to view learning as a refreshing process—like drinking water when thirsty—that renews our energy rather than filling it until we are bored.
Explained for Children
Imagine you are eating your favorite ice cream on a hot day; the first spoonful tastes amazing and makes you happy, but just when it's over, you wish there were one more bite because it tasted so good. Arjuna feels exactly like that with Krishna's words—he has heard beautiful things about God, but they feel as sweet and refreshing as nectar to him. Because his heart is full of love for learning the truth, he asks Krishna to keep sharing stories, just like a child asking their parent to read one more storybook before bed.
Daily Reflection
Arjuna's request to hear more shows us that divine knowledge never truly exhausts our soul; it only awakens a deeper hunger. When the words about God feel like sweet nectar, do not be afraid to ask for them again and again in your own quiet moments of prayer. Today, let your spiritual appetite guide you back to these truths with fresh eyes.
A Practice for Today
Close your eyes and silently repeat, 'O Lord of all beings, reveal Your infinite glories again.' Let the feeling of spiritual thirst transform into a deep sense of gratitude for every word you have already heard, recognizing that even in repetition, there is new nectar.
Key Teachings
- The Infinite Nature of the Divine
Krishna's glories are not limited to a single manifestation but extend through all existence. Understanding that the Lord is present in every aspect of creation helps dissolve the illusion of separation between the devotee and the divine. - The Nectar-like Quality of Sacred Speech
True spiritual instruction acts as a life-giving elixir that nourishes the soul more than physical food. This verse highlights how hearing about the Divine's nature brings an enduring satisfaction that worldly pleasures cannot provide. - The Devotee's Endless Longing
A sincere seeker never reaches a point of finality in their devotion but always desires to know more. This perpetual thirst is not a sign of dissatisfaction, but the highest form of love and engagement with the Absolute.
Themes
Related Verses
Read This Next
- 2.47 — After hearing of the Lord's infinite power, this verse grounds the devotee in performing duty without attachment to results.
- 3.30 — This chapter continues exploring how one surrenders all actions and thoughts specifically to Krishna after realizing His glory.
- 12.15 — Following the description of divine forms, this verse describes the qualities of a true devotee who is dear to the Lord.
Recommended Reading
GitaQ earns from qualifying purchases as an Amazon Associate.