Bhagavad Gita Chapter 10, Verse 8

English Translation

I am the origin of all; everything moves on owing to Me. Realizing thus, the wise ones, filled with fervour, adore Me.

Detailed Commentary

10.8 Explanation -- In "Aham sarvasya prabhavah" (I am the source of all), "sarvasya" implies the *vibhūti* (divine opulence/manifestation) of Bhagavan, meaning that everything we see, hear, and comprehend is a *vibhūti* of Bhagavan. In "Mattah sarvam pravartate" (From Me everything proceeds), "Mattah" signifies the divine influence of Bhagavan, from which all *vibhūtis* manifest. The teachings from the seventh, eighth, and ninth chapters are encompassed in the first half of this verse. "Aham sarvasya prabhavah" -- All sentient and insentient beings, I, as *Parampita Parameshwar* (the Supreme Father, the Supreme Lord), am the cause of their origin. Here, *prabhava* means that I am the intrinsic cause of creation. "Mattah sarvam pravartate" -- Whatever actions occur in the world, I am their sole basis. Just as all tasks are performed through electricity, similarly, I am the fundamental cause of everything that happens in the world. "Aham sarvasya prabhavo mattah sarvam pravartate" -- It is stated here that a spiritual seeker (*sādhaka*) should focus on Bhagavan, who is hidden behind everything. The essence at the root of everything is Bhagavan. The repeated mention of "Mattah" in this verse implies that everything originates from Bhagavan, resides in Bhagavan, and merges back into Bhagavan. Therefore, everything is of the very nature of Bhagavan (*Bhagavat-svarūpa*). The use of the words "sarvasya" and "sarvam" here indicates that there is no other creator or controller of this universe; only Bhagavan exists. "Iti matvā bhāva-samanvitāh" (Knowing this, they are endowed with spiritual emotion) -- Those who firmly believe that everything originates from Bhagavan are endowed with the highest spiritual emotion (*bhāva*). When their faith rests solely in Bhagavan, they become unperturbed and fearless. For where the Supreme Self (*Paramātman*) is, there is divinity. "Budhāh" (the wise) -- Their wisdom lies in not acknowledging any existence other than Bhagavan and in recognizing Bhagavan as the root of everything. Therefore, they are called wise. It is further stated that one who truly knows Me knows everything and performs My *bhajan* (15.18-19). "Mām bhajante" (They worship Me) -- Chanting and singing the names of Bhagavan (*japa-kīrtan*), meditating on the form of Bhagavan, listening to stories of Bhagavan, and reading Bhagavat-related texts – all these are *bhajan*. But true *bhajan* is that in which the heart is drawn towards Bhagavan, and only He becomes dear. **Special Point** The knowledge that everything originates from Bhagavan and receives its inspiration from Him is essential for all spiritual seekers (*sādhakas*). When *Paramātman* is at the root of everything, the *sādhaka's* goal should also be directed towards *Paramātman*. This very idea is repeatedly stated in the Gita; for example: one should worship that *Paramātman* from whom all beings have emanated (18.46); one should take refuge in that *Paramātman* who is established in the hearts of all beings and inspires them (18.61-62); and so on. While the practices of *Karmayoga*, *Jñānayoga*, and *Bhaktiyoga* may differ according to individual inclination, this knowledge is essential for everyone. **Connection** -- Now, in the following verse, it is explained how those devotees perform *bhajan*.