When Arjuna asks Krishna to display the universal form, Krishna obliges, but also displays something extra: his form as time. Why this bonus revelation?

Because Krishna is always conscious of the original purpose of the discussion: to resolve Arjuna’s dilemma about whether to fight or not. Therefore, whichever subject he may be contextually addressing, he expertly reorients the discussion toward that purpose. 

In this context, Krishna goes beyond addressing Arjuna’s specific request to be shown the universal form — he also shows an aspect of that form which will help Arjuna make a decision. Krishna’s form as time, specifically its destructive aspect, emphatically demonstrates to Arjuna a key point: The opposing Kauravas were doomed to death because of their many misdeeds, as were those who had chosen to be allied with them. Even if Arjuna chose not to fight, he couldn’t save them from their due karmic reactions. Krishna hints at this point by using the Sanskrit word ‘rite’ —  a word that can mean both “except” and “without” the former meaning indicates that Arjuna would be exempt from the destruction wrought by time on the battlefield, whereas the latter meaning indicates that time would bring about its destruction even without Arjuna’s participation. If he participated, he would do his social and spiritual duty, thus being glorified and elevated. 

Krishna had hinted at this bonus revelation when describing what he was going to show: “I will show you something that has never been shown before.” By thus giving an unsought bonus revelation of his manifestation of time, Krishna offers Arjuna complete guidance, providing him not just what he had asked for, but also what he needed but hadn’t known enough to ask about. 

One-sentence summary:

To guide expertly, provide others not just what they ask, but also what they need. 

Think it over:

  • How does Krishna expertly manage the Gita’s narrative?
  • What are the two meanings of the Sanskrit word ‘rite’? 
  • How does revealing the kala-rupa help Arjuna’s good choice?

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11.32: The Supreme Personality of Godhead said: Time I am, the great destroyer of the worlds, and I have come here to destroy all people. With the exception of you [the Pāndavas], all the soldiers here on both sides will be slain.

 Why does Krishna reveal his form as time?

To know more about this verse, please click on the image