Adveshta Sarva Bhutanam (Bhagavad Gita 12.13) — Word-by-Word Meaning
अद्वेष्टा सर्वभूतानाम्
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
अद्वेष्टा
adveṣhṭā
free from malice, one who hates no one
सर्वभूतानाम्
sarva-bhūtānām
toward all living beings
मैत्रः
maitraḥ
friendly
करुणः
karuṇaḥ
compassionate
एव
eva
indeed
च
cha
and
निर्ममः
nirmamaḥ
free from attachment to possession ('mine'-ness)
निरहङ्कारः
nirahankāraḥ
free from egoism ('I'-ness)
सम-दुःख-सुखः
sama-duḥkha-sukhaḥ
equipoised in pain and pleasure
क्षमी
kṣhamī
forgiving
Complete Translation
He who hates no creature, is friendly and compassionate to all, is free from attachment and egoism, is balanced in pleasure and pain, and is forgiving.
Origin & History
Source: Bhagavad Gita Chapter 12, Verse 13
Author: Veda Vyasa (Lord Krishna's teaching)
Period: Itihasa (Mahabharata)
In the twelfth chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, the Bhakti Yoga, Lord Krishna answers Arjuna's question about the best path and glorifies loving devotion. He concludes by describing the qualities of the devotee who is most dear to him; this verse opens that celebrated passage, portraying the compassionate, egoless and forgiving heart of a true bhakta.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of Adveshta Sarva Bhutanam?▼
From Bhagavad Gita 12.13, it means: 'One who hates no creature, is friendly and compassionate to all, free from possessiveness and ego, even in pleasure and pain, and forgiving.' It begins Krishna's description of the devotee who is dear to him.
Why is this verse important?▼
It opens a famous passage (Gita 12.13–20) in which Krishna lists the qualities of the bhakta he loves most. This verse names some of the highest virtues — freedom from hatred, universal compassion, egolessness, equanimity and forgiveness — making it a model for spiritual character.
How can I apply this verse?▼
Use it as a daily self-reflection: cultivate friendliness and compassion toward all, release possessiveness and pride, stay even-minded in joy and sorrow, and practise forgiveness. Living these qualities is itself a form of devotion that draws one close to God.
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