
7
CHAPTER
VERSE
23
अन्तवत्तु फलं तेषां तद्भवत्यल्पमेधसाम् |
देवान्देवयजो यान्ति मद्भक्ता यान्ति मामपि || 7.23 ||
Antavattu phalaṁ teṣāṁ tad bhavaty alpamedhasām
Devān deva-yajo yānti madbhaktā yānti mām api ||
But the fruit of those of small intellect is limited; the worshippers of the gods go to the gods, but my devotees come to me.
Lesson:
This verse speaks about the outcomes for those with limited understanding and those devoted to him. He explains that the results attained by individuals with limited intellect or spiritual insight are finite and temporary. These individuals may engage in various forms of worship directed towards demigods or celestial beings, such as Indra, Agni, or Varuna, seeking material desires or worldly blessings.
Krishna refers to such worshipers as "deva-yajo," indicating those who offer sacrifices or worship to the gods. Despite their devotion and efforts, the rewards they receive are confined to the realm of the gods (devān), corresponding to the particular deity they worship. These rewards may include heavenly pleasures, power, wealth, or other worldly benefits, but they are ultimately temporary and subject to the laws of karma.
In contrast, Krishna emphasizes the special status of his devotees (madbhaktā), who possess a deeper understanding and connection with him. Unlike worshipers of demigods, who receive limited and temporary rewards, devotees of Krishna enjoy a higher spiritual attainment. Their devotion and surrender lead them directly to Krishna, transcending the cycle of birth and death and attaining ultimate liberation or union with the divine.
Krishna's devotees are characterized by their unwavering faith, love, and surrender to him. They recognize Krishna as the supreme personality of Godhead and offer their devotion exclusively to him, without seeking any personal gain or material rewards. Their spiritual journey is guided by the path of bhakti (devotion), which leads them to experience the highest spiritual realization and eternal bliss in the association of Krishna.
This verse underscores the superiority of devotional service (bhakti) as the most direct and effective path to spiritual realization and liberation. It highlights the importance of cultivating a deep and loving relationship with the Supreme Being, transcending the limitations of material desires and temporary rewards associated with lesser forms of worship. Through sincere devotion and surrender to Krishna, one can attain the highest spiritual perfection and eternal happiness in his divine presence.