Bhagavad Gita Chapter 10, Verse 38

English Translation

Of the punishers I am the rod; I am the righteous policy of those who desire to coner. And of things secret, I am verily silence; I am knowledge of the men of knowledge৷৷

Detailed Commentary

।।10.38।। Commentary – "I am the rod of those who subdue" – To bring evil-doers onto the path of righteousness, the policy of punishment (Danda-nīti) is crucial. Therefore, the Lord has declared it as His Vibhūti. "I am the policy of those who seek victory" – Only by adhering to correct policies does a person attain victory. Therefore, the Lord has declared Nīti (policy) as His Vibhūti. "And I am the silence of secrets" – Among things that should be kept secret, maintaining silence (Mauna) is paramount, because no one can discern the thoughts of one who remains silent. Therefore, the Lord has declared Mauna as His Vibhūti. "I am the knowledge of the knowing" – The knowledge possessed by those in the world who have art or skill is the Lord's Vibhūti. This means that when such knowledge manifests among ourselves and others, it should be recognized as the Lord's Vibhūti. The distinctiveness in all these Vibhūtis does not belong to them alone, but solely to the Paramātmā. Therefore, our vision should always be directed towards the Lord.