Tad Viddhi Pranipatena (Bhagavad Gita 4.34) — Word-by-Word Meaning
तद्विद्धि प्रणिपातेन
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
तत्
tat
that (knowledge), the Truth
विद्धि
viddhi
know, try to learn
प्रणिपातेन
praṇipātena
by humble prostration (approaching a spiritual master)
परिप्रश्नेन
paripraśhnena
by sincere, humble inquiry
सेवया
sevayā
by rendering service
उपदेक्ष्यन्ति
upadekṣhyanti
will instruct, can impart
ते
te
unto you
ज्ञानम्
jñānam
knowledge
ज्ञानिनः
jñāninaḥ
the wise, the enlightened
तत्त्वदर्शिनः
tattva-darśhinaḥ
those who have realized the Truth
Complete Translation
Know that the wise who have realized the truth will instruct thee in that knowledge through humble prostration, sincere inquiry, and service.
Origin & History
Source: Bhagavad Gita Chapter 4, Verse 34
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 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of Tad Viddhi Pranipatena?▼
From Bhagavad Gita 4.34, it means: 'Know that knowledge by approaching the wise who have realized the Truth — through humble prostration, sincere inquiry and service; they will instruct you in that knowledge.' It describes how true spiritual knowledge is to be received.
What are the three steps Krishna prescribes for gaining knowledge?▼
Krishna names three: pranipata (humble surrender / prostration before the teacher), pariprashna (sincere, relevant inquiry), and seva (selfless service). Together they form the right attitude of a true seeker before a realized guru.
Why is this verse important for the guru-disciple tradition?▼
It is one of the clearest statements in the Gita of how spiritual knowledge is transmitted — not by mere reading or argument, but by humbly approaching a self-realized teacher (tattva-darshi) with reverence, questions and service. It is often recited on Guru Purnima.
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