Nainam Chindanti Shastrani (Bhagavad Gita 2.23) — Word-by-Word Meaning
नैनं छिन्दन्ति शस्त्राणि
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
न एनं छिन्दन्ति शस्त्राणि
Na enam chhindanti shastrani
Weapons cannot cut this (the soul)
न एनं दहति पावकः
Na enam dahati pavakah
Fire cannot burn it
न च एनं क्लेदयन्ति आपः
Na cha enam kledayanti apah
Water cannot wet it
न शोषयति मारुतः
Na shoshayati marutah
Wind cannot dry it
Complete Translation
Weapons cannot cut the soul, nor can fire burn it; water cannot wet it, nor can the wind dry it.
Origin & History
Source: Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2, Verse 23
Author: Veda Vyasa (Lord Krishna's teaching)
Period: Itihasa (Mahabharata)
As Arjuna grieved at the prospect of death on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, Lord Krishna revealed the truth of the eternal soul: that the Atman is never born and never dies, and cannot be harmed by any element. This verse, with its companion 2.22, is among the Gita's most luminous teachings on the deathless Self.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of Nainam Chindanti Shastrani?▼
From Bhagavad Gita 2.23: 'Weapons cannot cut the soul, fire cannot burn it, water cannot wet it, and wind cannot dry it.' Krishna teaches that the soul (Atman) is eternal and indestructible, beyond all harm.
Which chapter and verse is Nainam Chindanti?▼
It is verse 23 of Chapter 2 (Sankhya Yoga) of the Bhagavad Gita, where Krishna explains the immortal, unchanging nature of the soul to console Arjuna's fear of death.
Why is this verse recited at funerals?▼
Because it teaches that the soul never dies — it cannot be cut, burned, wetted or dried. Reciting it at funerals and in bereavement brings the comfort that the departed soul is eternal and untouched, and dissolves the fear of death.
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