Tad Viddhi Pranipatena (Bhagavad Gita 4.34)
तद्विद्धि प्रणिपातेन
Also known as: tad viddhi pranipatena pariprashnena sevaya · tadviddhi pranipatena · bhagavad gita 4.34
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✦ Meaning
Bhagavad Gita 4.34 reveals the time-honoured method of receiving spiritual knowledge. Krishna tells Arjuna to approach the wise who have realized the Truth with humility (pranipata), sincere inquiry (pariprashna) and service (seva), and they will impart that knowledge to him. It is a foundational verse on the guru-disciple relationship and the right attitude for learning.
Origin & Story
Bhagavad Gita Chapter 4, Verse 34 · Veda Vyasa (Lord Krishna's teaching) · Itihasa (Mahabharata)
In the fourth chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, the Jnana Karma Sanyasa Yoga, Lord Krishna glorifies the path of knowledge and the sacrifice of wisdom. Here he instructs Arjuna on how such knowledge is to be obtained — by approaching realized sages with humility, inquiry and service — making this verse a timeless teaching on the guru-disciple relationship.
✦ As told in scripture
It is traditionally held that knowledge approached with pride remains barren, while the same knowledge sought with humility, inquiry and service blossoms into realization; thus countless disciples, serving their guru in this spirit, are said to have received the light of true wisdom.
The Mantra
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तद्विद्धि प्रणिपातेन परिप्रश्नेन सेवया। उपदेक्ष्यन्ति ते ज्ञानं ज्ञानिनस्तत्त्वदर्शिनः॥
tad viddhi praṇipātena paripraśhnena sevayā upadekṣhyanti te jñānaṁ jñāninas tattva-darśhinaḥ
Meaning:Know that the wise who have realized the truth will instruct thee in that knowledge through humble prostration, sincere inquiry, and service.
Word-by-Word Meaning
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Benefits of Chanting Tad Viddhi Pranipatena (Bhagavad Gita 4.34)
Teaches the sacred method of acquiring true knowledge — humility, inquiry and service to a realized teacher.
Establishes the guru-disciple relationship as the path to spiritual wisdom (jnana).
Cultivates the right attitude of the seeker: surrender of ego, sincere questioning and selfless service.
Recited by students and seekers to invoke the grace of the guru and receive genuine understanding.
Contemplated to remind oneself that knowledge is received through humility, not pride.
How to Chant Tad Viddhi Pranipatena (Bhagavad Gita 4.34)
Recite the verse with reverence, especially before study or when seeking guidance from a teacher, cultivating an attitude of humility, sincere inquiry and willingness to serve. It is cherished as the guiding principle for approaching a guru and receiving true knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions
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