Verse 10-37

वृष्णीनां वासुदेवोऽस्मि पाण्डवानां धनञ्जय: |

मुनीनामप्यहं व्यास: कवीनामुशना कवि: || 37 ||

“Among the Vrishnis, I am Vasudeva. Among the Pāndavas, I am Arjuna. Among the sages, I am Vyāsa, and among poets, I am Usana (Shukracharya).”
 
Commentary:

Lord Krishna continues to reveal his divine manifestations, highlighting his presence and significance in various individuals and groups.

 

Vṛṣṇīnām Vāsudevo’smi: Lord Krishna declares that among the Vrishnis, a prominent Yadava clan to which he belongs, he is Vasudeva. Vasudeva is Lord Krishna’s father and a revered figure among the Vrishnis. Lord Krishna signifies his presence as the most distinguished and divine member of the Vrishni dynasty.

 

Pāṇḍavānām Dhanañjayaḥ: Lord Krishna states that among the Pāndavas, he is Arjuna. Arjuna is the great warrior and devotee of Lord Krishna who plays a central role in the Bhagavad Gita. Lord Krishna signifies his presence as the guide, friend, and source of inspiration for Arjuna, representing his divine support and guidance for those who strive for righteousness and fight for justice.

 

Munīnāmapyaham Vyāsaḥ: Lord Krishna reveals that among the sages, he is Vyāsa. Vyāsa is a revered sage and the compiler of the Mahabharata, which includes the Bhagavad Gita. Lord Krishna signifies his presence as the source of divine wisdom and knowledge, inspiring the sage Vyāsa in his endeavor to preserve and share spiritual teachings.

 

Kavīnām Uśanā Kaviḥ: Lord Krishna declares that among poets, he is Usana, who is also known as Shukracharya. Shukracharya is a renowned sage and the preceptor of the Asuras (demons). Lord Krishna signifies his presence as the embodiment of poetic excellence and wisdom, illuminating the minds of poets and inspiring them to create profound verses.


By associating himself with Vasudeva, Arjuna, Vyāsa, and Usana, Lord Krishna reveals his connection to these prominent figures and their respective qualities. He represents the divine presence and influence in the lives of individuals who embody courage, righteousness, wisdom, and poetic expression. Lord Krishna’s manifestations in these figures demonstrate his divine support, guidance, and inspiration for those who strive for truth, knowledge, and righteousness in their respective roles and endeavors.