Shraddhavan Labhate Jnanam (Bhagavad Gita 4.39) — Word-by-Word Meaning
श्रद्धावाँल्लभते ज्ञानम्
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
श्रद्धावान्
śhraddhā-vān
a person full of faith
लभते
labhate
achieves, obtains
ज्ञानम्
jñānam
divine knowledge
तत्परः
tat-paraḥ
devoted to it, intent upon it
संयत-इन्द्रियः
sanyata-indriyaḥ
one who has controlled the senses
ज्ञानम्
jñānam
transcendental knowledge
लब्ध्वा
labdhvā
having achieved
पराम्
parām
supreme
शान्तिम्
śhāntim
peace
अचिरेण
achireṇa
without delay, very soon
अधिगच्छति
adhigachchhati
attains
Complete Translation
The one who is full of faith, devoted to it, and has subdued the senses obtains this knowledge; and having gained it, attains the supreme peace without delay.
Origin & History
Source: Bhagavad Gita Chapter 4, Verse 39
Author: Veda Vyasa (Lord Krishna's teaching)
Period: Itihasa (Mahabharata)
In the fourth chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, the Jnana Karma Sanyasa Yoga, Lord Krishna glorifies divine knowledge as the fire that burns all karma to ashes. Following his instruction that knowledge is received with humility and service, he declares in this verse that the faithful, devoted and self-controlled seeker attains that knowledge and, through it, the supreme peace without delay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of Shraddhavan Labhate Jnanam?▼
From Bhagavad Gita 4.39, it means: 'The person of faith, devoted to it and with senses controlled, obtains knowledge; and having gained that knowledge, quickly attains supreme peace.' Krishna teaches that faith is the key to divine wisdom and lasting peace.
What are the three qualifications mentioned in this verse?▼
Krishna names three: shraddha (faith), being tat-para (wholly devoted and intent upon knowledge), and samyata-indriya (mastery over the senses). One with these qualities gains divine knowledge and the supreme peace that follows it.
Why is faith so important according to this verse?▼
Krishna places faith first because without it the mind cannot receive or hold deep spiritual truth. Faith, joined with devotion and self-control, opens the way to knowledge, and that knowledge swiftly grants the highest peace — making faith the gateway to liberation.
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