199. Many Forms, One Origin

Krishna says, “When someone perceives the variety of living beings as rooted in One that has expanded Itself into the many, they then merge with Brahma” (13.31). As per contemporary scientific understanding, the universe started about 13.8 billion years ago from a single point (singularity) and is expanding even today. This process of expansion created many stars and planets. It also brought a variety of living beings into existence. This verse conveys the same using the language of its time.

This knowledge can be easily obtained through books. But this verse indicates the ability to see ‘One origin’ in the present moment when we encounter different people and different situations created by them resulting in the triggering of many emotions within us. When we perceive ‘One origin’, we get freed from ‘mine and yours’ syndrome. In that sense, this verse also can be taken as a definition of moksha which is the ultimate freedom here and now.

Krishna further says, “The Paramatma (Supreme Soul) is imperishable, anaadi (without beginning), and nirgun (devoid of any gunas- qualities). Although situated within the body, it neither acts nor is it tainted (13.32). Sky holds everything within it but does not get contaminated by what it holds. Similarly, atma (soul) which pervades the body is not affected by the attributes of the body” (13.33). To explain a similar intricacy, Krishna gave the example of a lotus leaf which doesn’t get wet despite being in contact with water. Similarly, the soul is also not affected by the attributes of the body.

The sky is all around us and it holds everything but doesn’t get contaminated because it neither gets attached to anything nor does it identify itself with something. It is about remembering this aspect whenever we see the sky and some meditation techniques use this aspect.