Verse 23
nainaṁ chindanti śastrāṇi nainaṁ dahati pāvakaḥ
na cainaṁ kledayantyāpo na śoṣayati mārutaḥ
Word-by-Word Meaning:
- na — not
- inam — this (referring to the soul)
- chindanti — cut, pierce
- śastrāṇi — weapons
- na — not
- inam — this
- dahati — burns
- pāvakaḥ — fire
- na — not
- ca — and
- inam — this
- kledayanti — wets, soaks
- āpaḥ — water
- na — not
- śoṣayati — dries up
- mārutaḥ — wind
Weapons do not cut this soul; fire does not burn it; water does not wet it, nor does the wind dry it.
Expanded Meaning:
Krishna asserts the indestructibility and imperviousness of the soul (ātman) to physical elements or harm:
- The soul is not a physical entity; hence, it cannot be cut, burnt, wetted, or dried.
- It transcends the material elements that affect the body.
- This verse reinforces the eternal, immutable nature of the soul beyond the fragile physical frame.
Contextual Analysis:
- Immortality of the Soul
The soul is eternal and cannot be destroyed by any external force or weapon. - Transcendence Over Elements
Unlike the body, which is affected by the physical elements (fire, water, wind), the soul remains unaffected. - Philosophical Assertion of Atman
This verse clearly distinguishes the soul from the body, emphasizing the soul’s imperishable nature.
Philosophical Insight:
- The soul (ātman) is beyond the reach of any physical damage or decay.
- The soul is self-existent and eternal; it neither originates nor perishes.
- This concept aligns with Vedantic philosophy, where the soul is pure consciousness and immutable.
Spiritual Symbolism:
| Term | Symbolic Meaning |
|---|---|
| Śastrāṇi (weapons) | External destructive forces, violence |
| Pāvakaḥ (fire) | Purifying and destructive energy |
| Āpaḥ (water) | Life-giving but also transformative element |
| Mārutaḥ (wind) | Change, movement, and transformation |
| Soul (inam) | Eternal, immutable Self beyond the physical |
Modern-Day Relevance:
- Provides comfort against fears related to bodily harm or death.
- Encourages identification with the soul rather than the body.
- Inspires inner strength and resilience, knowing one’s true essence cannot be harmed.
Reflection Questions:
How do I differentiate between my physical body and my true self?
Can I cultivate a sense of peace by identifying with the imperishable soul?
How does this understanding help me face challenges or fears?
Conclusion:
This powerful verse reaffirms the invulnerability and eternal nature of the soul, making it clear that true selfhood transcends all physical limitations and harm. Krishna’s teaching invites us to recognize our deeper, unchanging essence beyond the temporary body, inspiring courage and spiritual insight.