I am Time, the source of destruction that comes forth to annihilate the worlds.
Bhagavad Gita (Mahabharata) by Vyasa
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Vyasa, also known as Krishna Dvaipayana and Badarayana, is a monumental figure in Hindu tradition. He is revered as a sage and regarded by many as a partial incarnation of Vishnu. He is best known as the author of the epic Mahabharata, the compiler of the Vedas, and the writer of the Puranas and the Brahma Sutras. Vyasa’s contributions to Indian literature and philosophy are immense, making him a central and revered figure in Hinduism.
The quote in question is from the Bhagavad Gita, a 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata. This scripture is a conversation between Prince Arjuna and the god Krishna, who serves as his charioteer. In this dialogue, Krishna imparts spiritual wisdom and guidance to Arjuna, who is conflicted about fighting in the Kurukshetra War. The specific quote is attributed to Krishna, and it occurs in a context where Krishna reveals his universal form and explains the nature of the universe and the role of time within it.
The meaning behind the quote
The full quote “I am Time, the source of destruction that comes forth to annihilate the worlds. Even without your participation, the warriors arrayed in the opposing army shall cease to exist.” is a statement that encapsulates the inevitability of change and the impermanence of life as dictated by the passage of time. It is spoken by Lord Krishna in the form of time itself, emphasizing the ultimate power of time over all creation. This declaration is made to Arjuna to illustrate the futility of resisting the natural flow of events and the predetermined course of destiny.
The essence of this quote lies in its reminder of the transient nature of existence and the omnipotence of time as a force that shapes the universe. It serves as a stark reminder that life is fleeting, and everything that exists is subject to the inexorable march of time, eventually leading to its end.
In a broader philosophical context, this quote encourages individuals to acknowledge the limits of their control over life’s events and to embrace their roles in the grand scheme of things with humility and courage. It teaches the importance of performing one’s duty with dedication, while also understanding that the ultimate outcome of all actions is governed by the larger cosmic order. This realization fosters a sense of peace and acceptance, allowing one to live in harmony with the natural flow of life and the universe.
Notes
Robert Oppenheimer, the lead scientist of the Manhattan Project, which developed the first atomic bomb during World War II, famously quoted the Bhagavad Gita upon witnessing the first successful test of the atomic bomb in New Mexico in 1945.
Oppenheimer’s quote, “Now I have become Death, the destroyer of worlds,” reflects his complex emotions at that moment – a mix of awe at the scientific accomplishment and deep apprehension about the devastating power they had unleashed. The quote encapsulates the weight of the moment and the immense responsibility of wielding such destructive power.
Oppenheimer didn’t quote directly from the Bhagavad Gita, likely because he was expressing his personal interpretation and emotional response to the event.