Bhagavad Gita Chapter 11, Verse 42

English Translation

And that You have been discourteously treated out of fun-while walking, while on a bed, while on a seat, while eating, in privacy, or, O Acyuta, even in public, for that I beg pardon of You, the incomprehensible One.

Detailed Commentary

11.42 Commentary – When Arjuna, struck with fear upon beholding the *Virāt Rūpa* of the Lord, momentarily forgets Krishna and asks, "Who are you, assuming this fierce form?" But when the remembrance of Bhagavan Shri Krishna returns, he recalls their old friendship (*sakhā bhāva*) and begins to seek forgiveness. *Sakhēti matvā prasabhaṁ yaduktaṁ hē Kr̥ṣṇa hē Yādava hē sakhēti* – Those who are great are not addressed directly by their name. Words like 'Your Honor' or 'Maharaja' are used. But I addressed you as 'Hey Krishna,' 'Hey Yadava,' 'Hey Sakhe' (O Friend). The reason for this was my ignorance of Your glory (*mahimā*). I did not know that infinite universes reside within a single part of You. Although Arjuna knew the true nature (*svarūpa*) and glory (*mahimā*) of the Lord, it was only upon seeing the *Viśvarūpa* that he truly comprehended the Lord's supreme influence (*prabhāva*). No one can fully comprehend the glory (*mahimā*) of the Lord, for it is infinite. There is no end to the Lord's divine manifestations (*vibhutis*) nor to His glory. *Yaccāvahāsārthamasatkr̥to'si vihāraśayyāsanabhōjanēṣu* – I seek Your forgiveness for having spoken disrespectful words to You in jest, treating You as an ordinary friend. Even though You did not mind my indignities, I have repeatedly offended You. Therefore, I seek forgiveness for my transgression from the Lord, who is *Aprameya*. To call the Lord *Aprameya* means that He cannot be measured even by divine vision. Now, in the following two verses, Arjuna seeks forgiveness by describing the Lord's glory (*mahimā*) and influence (*prabhāva*).