Bhagavad Gita Chapter 9, Verse 4

English Translation

This whole world is prevaded by Me in My unmanifest form. All beings exist in Me, but I am not contained in them!

Detailed Commentary

**Explanation** "By Me, in My unmanifest form, this entire universe is pervaded." – In this universe, Bhagavān is present everywhere. One form of His can be understood by the mind, intellect, and senses; this is called the *vyakta* (manifest) form. The other form is *avyakta* (unmanifest), which the senses cannot perceive. Here, Bhagavān has introduced His *vyakta* (with form) and *avyakta* (formless) aspects. Bhagavān is both *sākār* (with form) and *nirākār* (formless). The distinction between *saguṇa* (with attributes) and *nirguṇa* (without attributes) found in the Upaniṣads and the Gītā is merely a difference in perspective. In reality, Paramātmā is one. These *saguṇa* and *nirguṇa* are different aspects of the same Paramātmā. It is stated in the Gītā, 'Yena sarvamidaṁ tatam' (2.17) – "by which all this is pervaded," – this describes the true nature of the *jīva* (individual soul). It is all-pervading, just like Paramātmā. There is no difference between Paramātmā and *jīva*. For devotees (*bhaktas*), worshippers (*upāsanākartās*), and *Karma Yogīs*, Bhagavān has declared: 'Mayā tatamidaṁ sarvam' (By Me, all this is pervaded). All beings reside in Bhagavān. They all originate from Bhagavān, subsist in Bhagavān, and ultimately merge into Bhagavān. Bhagavān has clarified that He is extended throughout all beings, yet remains separate and unattached to them. This *Yoga* (mystic power) of His, this capacity, is wondrous. He is self-existent (*svayambhū*), and even while existing, He is completely independent of this world. 'Paśya me yogamaiśvaram' (Behold My divine *Yoga*) — Bhagavān, though residing in the world, remains unattached to it. This is Bhagavān's astonishing *Yoga*. He is one, yet manifests in many forms. This is Bhagavān's *prabhāv* (glory or might). Paramātmā is in the world, and the world is in Paramātmā. But these two are one and the same. Just as waves exist in water, so too does the world manifest as Paramātmā's *līlās* (divine play). Paramātmā remains as He is, eternally, regardless of what transpires in the world. Understood from this perspective, Bhagavān's *Yoga* appears unique. A devotee (*bhakta*) should practice seeing Bhagavān's *līlā* in every situation. This maintains peace and contentment in the mind. **Profound Insight** The origin of the world is Bhagavān. Upon deeply understanding this truth, the seeker (*sādhaka*) experiences it. Indeed, every state, every incident, every thought in the world is Bhagavān's *līlā*. When that truth is experienced, no circumstance can affect the *sādhaka*. **Context** Now Bhagavān clarifies the points mentioned in the previous verses with examples.