Verse 4.38
Speaker: Krishna
Sanskrit
न हि ज्ञानेन सदृशं पवित्रमिह विद्यते। तत्स्वयं योगसंसिद्धः कालेनात्मनि विन्दति।।
Transliteration (IAST)
na hi jñānena sadṛśaṁ pavitram iha vidyate tat svayaṁ yoga-saṁsiddhaḥ kālenātmani vindati
Word-by-Word Meanings
jñānena-with knowledge
sadṛśam-comparable/equal
pavitram-purifier
svayam-oneself
yoga-saṁsiddhaḥ-one perfected in yoga
kālena-in course of time
Translation
In this world, there is nothing so sublime and pure as transcendental knowledge. Such knowledge is the mature fruit of all mysticism. And one who has become accomplished in the practice of devotional service enjoys this knowledge within himself in due course of time.
Commentary
Krishna declares knowledge the supreme purifier - nothing in existence equals its transformative power. Importantly, this knowledge arises naturally (svayam) within one who is perfected in yoga, in due course of time (kālena). It cannot be forced but ripens through sustained practice and grace.
Themes
jnanayogamoksha