Chapter 18: Moksha-sannyasa-yoga: / Verse 75

Huge armies were surrounding the scene of the dialogue. But all of them being away from the chariot, could not hear what Krishna and Arjuna spoke. However, Sanjaya, whom Vyasadeva had appointed as the narrator for King Dhritarashtra, was close by to witness everything in the battlefield. The dialogue was a singular episode in the whole war events. It was a wonderful, profound and secret message, seldom spoken and heard!

Unlike the fiery scenes and war cries of pitched battles, here was a patient verbal exchange, holding immense importance and relevance to Sanjaya and the blind King. Sanjaya’s presence as a listener was important for ensuring the credibility of the message. Moreover, he was the only additional person to know all that transpired at that time.

Therefore, his feelings are very important in assessing the relevance and utility of the exposition. Vyasadeva only reproduces Sanjaya’s words.

The whole dialogue, says Sanjaya, was very profound. By Vyasadeva’s grace he was able to be present on the scene and hear and see all that transpired. It is enlightening and delightful alike.

The illustrious Arjuna was the seeker, enquirer, who occasioned the dialogue. On the other side stood Krishna holding the reins of the powerful horses, turning back all along to speak to Arjuna, sitting on the chariot with his weapons down.

Krishna exposed the entire subject of Yoga. On hearing his words, Sanjaya describes him as Yogeshvara, the Lord of Yoga, the Master of Yoga. To have been present there is a rare fortune. Vyasadeva’s blessings alone enabled him for this. Thus to Arjuna’s acknowledgement (18.73), Sanjaya adds his admiring compliments. What a great finale!