Bhagavad Gita Kinchidadhita
भगवद्गीता किञ्चिदधीता in English · English
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✦ Meaning
This is one of the best-loved verses of Adi Shankaracharya's Bhaja Govindam. It promises that even a small measure of devotion — a little study of the Gita, a single drop of Ganga water, one act of worship of Vishnu — frees a person from the fear of death, for Yama himself raises no claim against such a soul. It celebrates the immense power of even modest, sincere devotion.
Origin & Story
Bhaja Govindam (Moha Mudgara), composed by Adi Shankaracharya · Adi Shankaracharya · 8th century CE (circa 788-820)
Tradition holds that Shankaracharya composed Bhaja Govindam in Varanasi on seeing an aged scholar laboring over Sanskrit grammar instead of seeking the Divine. The hymn urges the mind to turn to Govinda before death. This verse offers its tender assurance — that even a little devotion to the Gita, the Ganga and the Lord Murari is enough to place one beyond the reach of Yama.
✦ As told in scripture
Devotees across the ages have taken comfort in this verse's promise that Yama, the lord of death, holds no argument with one who has even a drop of devotion. It echoes the broader teaching of the tradition that the Lord's grace, once invited even slightly, carries the soul safely across the ocean of death and rebirth.
The Mantra
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Bhagavadgita kinchidadhita gangajala lavakanika pita Sakridapi yena murarisamarcha kriyate tasya yamena na charcha
Meaning:One who has studied even a little of the Bhagavad Gita, sipped even a single drop of Ganga's water, and worshipped Murari (Vishnu) even once — with such a person, Yama, the lord of death, holds no argument.
Word-by-Word Meaning
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Benefits of Chanting भगवद्गीता किञ्चिदधीता
A reassuring verse from Bhaja Govindam on the power of even small devotion
Teaches that a little study of the Gita and worship of Vishnu conquer the fear of death
Encourages beginners that sincere, modest practice bears great fruit
Excellent for contemplation during satsang and daily reflection
Strengthens faith in scripture (the Gita), the Ganga and worship of the Lord
Brings peace by dissolving the dread of Yama through devotion to Murari
How to Chant भगवद्गीता किञ्चिदधीता
This is a verse for slow, reflective recitation rather than rapid repetition. Read it and let its assurance settle — that even a little devotion to the Gita, the Ganga and Vishnu frees one from the fear of death. It may be chanted on its own or as part of the full Bhaja Govindam during spiritual gatherings.
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Read the full भगवद्गीता किञ्चिदधीता with verse-by-verse meaning, or explore more sacred texts