In the Bhagavad-gita’s conclusion, Krishna reveals his love for Arjuna (18.64-66). Krishna’s declaration is astonishing, riveting, inspiring. Yet it may raise a question, “Is such love meant only for Arjuna or is it meant for me too?”

At one level, Krishna’s declaration of intimate love is clearly meant for Arjuna. Krishna is issuing a personal call to his dear devotee-friend, who has circumstantially lost his way. 

At another level, Arjuna represents all of us. Though his devotion far exceeds ours, we all have the potential for devotion. Unleashing that potential is the perfection of life — and the purpose of Krishna in speaking the Gita. 

Significantly, Krishna declares that his love is reciprocal (04.11) — he rewards us based on how we approach him. In the devotional context, what does this reciprocity mean? To the extent we seek to love him, to that extent he reveals his supreme attractiveness, thereby increasing our attraction for him. Simultaneously, Krishna declares that his love is universal — he is everyone’s well-wisher (05.29). And he accompanies everyone on their multi-life journey as their indwelling companion (15.15).

Envisioned metaphorically,  Krishna’s love is not an elite circle reserved only for his pure devotees. It is a set of concentric circles with the innermost circle encompassing his topmost devotees: the gopis of Vrindavana. From there, his love extends in progressively larger circles that include other pure devotees, dedicated devotees, neophyte devotees, pious people, materialistic people, even demonic people — indeed, all living beings. 

Each one of us is already encircled by Krishna’s love. By getting inspiration and guidance from the Gita, we can enter into a more intimate circle, thereby relishing the sweetness of his love more and more, forever. 

One-sentence summary: 

By understanding how we are already in a circle of Krishna’s love, we can become encouraged and enlivened to strive toward a more intimate circle of his love. 

Think it over:

  • Is Krishna’s declaration of love meant only for Arjuna?
  • What are the two characteristics of Krishna’s love? Explain. 
  • If we are already encircled by Krishna’s love, why do we need the Gita?

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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.