top of page

8

CHAPTER 

VERSE

17

सहस्रयुगपर्यन्तमहर्यद्ब्रह्मणो विदु: |
रात्रिं युगसहस्रान्तां तेऽहोरात्रविदो जना: || 8.17 ||

Sahasrayugaparyantamaharyadbrahmaṇo viduḥ
Rātriṁ yugasahasrāntāṁ te'horātravido janāḥ ||

Those who know the day of Brahma which spans a thousand yugas, and the night of Brahma which also spans a thousand yugas, they are the ones who truly understand.

Lesson:

This verse talks about the concept of time in the cosmic perspective, referring to the cycle of creation and dissolution in the universe, known as the day and night of Brahma. The day of Brahma (sahasrayugaparyantamahar) signifies the period of creation or manifestation, spanning a duration of a thousand yugas. A yuga is a unit of time in Hindu cosmology, representing an epoch or era, characterized by specific cosmic conditions and human civilization. Thus, the day of Brahma encompasses the immense duration during which the universe undergoes continuous cycles of creation, sustenance, and dissolution.

Conversely, the night of Brahma (rātriṁ yugasahasrāntām) symbolizes the period of dissolution or cosmic rest, lasting for another thousand yugas. During this phase, the manifested universe withdraws back into the unmanifested state, and existence enters a state of dormancy or potentiality. It is a time of cosmic rejuvenation and preparation for the next cycle of creation.

Krishna emphasizes that those who comprehend the vast expanse of time encompassed by the day and night of Brahma possess true wisdom and spiritual insight (te'horātravido janāḥ). Such individuals have a profound understanding of the cyclical nature of existence, transcending the limitations of ordinary perception and temporal concerns. They recognize the eternal rhythms of creation and dissolution, realizing the impermanent nature of the material world and the eternal nature of the divine.

This verse encourages seekers to contemplate the profound mysteries of time and existence, leading to a deeper understanding of the cosmic order and one's place within it. It invites reflection on the transient nature of life and the eternal nature of the soul, urging individuals to align themselves with the timeless principles of dharma and spiritual realization.

Comments

Share Your ThoughtsBe the first to write a comment.
bottom of page