IX: Introduction

[Krishna Jaya]

 

                                                          CHAPTER  NINE

                                               THE  YOGA  OF  MYSTICISM

                                                                Introduction

Sri Aurobindo:

 

All the truth that has been developed step by step to this point is about to take a turn of immense importance.  Krishna therefore takes care first to draw attention to the decisive character of what he is about to say, so that Arjuna’s mind may be awakened and attentive; for Krishna is going to open his mind to the knowledge and sight of the integral divinity which leads up to the vision of the eleventh chapter, wherein the warrior of Kurukshetra becomes conscious of the Author and Upholder of his being, action and mission, God in himself and the world, whom nothing limits or binds, because all proceeds from him.  All is a movement in his Infinite Being, continuing and supported by his will, having him always for its origin, substance, and end. 

 

Arjuna is to become aware of himself as existing only in God, his workings only an instrumentality of the divine action, his egoistic consciousness only a veil and to his ignorance a misrepresentation of the real deal within him, an immortal spark of the Supreme Person.

 

Srila Prabhupada:  As devotees hear more and more about Krishna, they increasingly understand how potent the messages of Krishna are.  Krishna, in order to encourage Arjuna to higher and higher elevation in his service, describes in this Ninth Chapter matters more confidential than any already disclosed.  The matters which are described in the Ninth Chapter deal with unalloyed, pure devotion. 

 

Swami Satchidananda:

 

In some cultures, nobody sees the bride’s face until she comes to the wedding hall.  Sacred and secret go together, because anything that is valuable isn’t just dropped here or there.  You can put an imitation diamond down anywhere, even on the edge of the bathroom sink, leave it there, and go about your business.  You don’t leave a real diamond lying around like that so easily.  You don’t even wear it every day, just on special occasions.  Why?  It has so much value.  Something cheap is available on the road or on a park bench, but something of great value is sacred.  The most valuable thing is the truth of wisdom.  Such pearls are not to be cast out to be trampled upon.  When something has merit, keep it sacred.  The king doesn’t come cheaply.