While practicing bhakti, suppose we feel attracted not to Krishna, but to the world’s allurements. Seeing our devotional weakness, we may lament: “I don’t love Krishna enough.” Even if that is true, what is the solution? It’s not forcing ourselves to love Krishna; it’s understanding how much he loves us. 

Consider how the Bhagavad-gita reveals Krishna’s loving nature. When Arjuna is reluctant to do his kshatriya duty, as is expected by Krishna, Krishna doesn’t use his omnipotence to extract obedience. Instead, he patiently and cogently explains how his plan is in both Arjuna’s and everyone’s ultimate interests. 

Even after such explanation, Krishna still respects Arjuna’s independence, urging him only to deliberate before deciding (18.63). Seeing Arjuna pensive, trying to put together the Gita’s many subtle trains of thought, Krishna’s heart overflows with compassion. Declaring that he will explicitly reiterate his most confidential message (18.64), he proclaims his unflinching love for Arjuna and invites him to reciprocate (18.65). Further, he assures his personal protection, should any untoward consequences arise when Arjuna reciprocates (18.66). In his concluding verse, he enquires whether his message has been understandable (18.72), implying his readiness to repeat and clarify whatever is necessary. This Gita section reveals Krishna’s nature: he’s not a dispassionate philosophy teacher; he’s an impassioned lover, fervently striving to ensure that his beloved chooses wisely. And we all are Krishna’s beloved.

This Gita section is one of many similar passages found in the bhakti texts. By meditating on such passages, we get energized with the conviction that Krishna loves us so much. And we naturally turn away from the world’s allurements to offer our love to him. 

One-sentence summary:

Whenever we feel allured by the world, our primary problem is not that we don’t love Krishna; it’s that we don’t understand how much Krishna loves us. 

Think it over:

  • How does the Gita reveal Krishna’s loving nature?
  • Krishna loves you immensely — which scriptural passage speaks this message loudest to you?
  • From this passage, note in your own words three points that inspire you the most. 

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18.64: Because you are My very dear friend, I am speaking to you My supreme instruction, the most confidential knowledge of all. Hear this from Me, for it is for your benefit.

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