Verse 10-27

उच्चै:श्रवसमश्वानां विद्धि माममृतोद्भवम् |

ऐरावतं गजेन्द्राणां नराणां च नराधिपम् || 27 ||

“Among horses, know me to be Ucchaihshravas, born from the nectar; among elephants, I am Airavata; and among humans, I am the king.” 

Commentary:

Lord Krishna reveals further divine manifestations to Arjuna, representing his presence in different forms within creation.


Ucchaihshravas: Lord Krishna states that among horses, he is Ucchaihshravas. Ucchaihshravas is a legendary celestial horse mentioned in Hindu mythology. It is believed to have emerged during the churning of the ocean of milk (Samudra Manthan) and is associated with immortality and divine attributes. Ucchaihshravas is renowned for its exceptional speed and strength. By identifying himself with Ucchaihshravas, Lord Krishna signifies his association with power, swiftness, and divine origins.

 

Airavata: Lord Krishna declares that among elephants, he is Airavata. Airavata is a celestial elephant known for its majestic appearance and divine nature. It is considered the mount (vahana) of Lord Indra, the king of gods. Airavata is often depicted with multiple trunks and is associated with rain, fertility, and abundance. By associating himself with Airavata, Lord Krishna symbolizes his connection to prosperity, abundance, and regal qualities.

 

The King among humans: Lord Krishna reveals that among humans, he is the king. This refers to the ideal king who governs with righteousness, wisdom, and benevolence. The king holds a significant position in society, responsible for maintaining law and order and ensuring the welfare of the people. By proclaiming himself as the king among humans, Lord Krishna signifies his association with leadership, governance, and the principles of justice and righteousness.

 

Through these divine manifestations, Lord Krishna exemplifies various qualities and characteristics found in the celestial and earthly realms. He represents power, swiftness, and divine origins through Ucchaihshravas, abundance and regality through Airavata, and righteous leadership through the ideal king. These manifestations serve to highlight his divine nature and his embodiment of different virtues that guide and inspire beings in their respective roles and responsibilities within creation.