Krishna is not just the object for meditation but also the subject for reciprocation

For aspiring meditators, Gita wisdom recommends Krishna as the best object for meditation. Let’s see how and why.

While outlining yoga in its sixth chapter, the Gita recommends as the starting focus point an external object such as the tip of the nose (06.13). As the yogi progresses, it (06.14) recommends that the mind be turned inwards and focused on Krishna within the heart.

This devotional focus is not just a tool of yoga, but also its goal. The Gita (06.30) declares that the advanced yogis who see Krishna everywhere are never lost. And its sixth chapter concludes (06.47) that those who constantly fix their mind on him are the topmost yogis.

Why is Krishna the topmost object of meditation?

Primarily because he is not just an object; he is also a subject. He is not just an insentient thing on which we concentrate; he is a living, loving person who reciprocates when we meditate on him. The Gita (10.10) states that he personally guides those who think of him lovingly so that they can attain the highest spiritual fulfillment.

This reciprocal dimension of devotional meditation makes it supremely joyful. Meditation on any object that we like may bring some peace or joy – the quantity will be dependent largely on our capacity to concentrate on it and thereby avoid distracting thoughts. And that quantity will always be limited because both that object and we are limited. Even if that object is unlimited like the impersonal brahmajyoti or the neutral Supersoul, still because neither reciprocates with our love, we remain bereaved of the ultimate fulfillment of spiritual love.

Krishna alone is unlimited and reciprocal. When we meditate on him, with the desire to love him, he floods our heart with ecstatic love, thus granting supreme fulfillment.