Glossary · Philosophy
Ishvara
ईश्वर
What does Ishvara mean?
Ishvara is the lord and controller of the universe. In verse 15.15 Krishna says, 'I am seated in the hearts of all; from me come memory, knowledge, and forgetfulness.' Ishvara is Brahman understood personally — the absolute with will, love, and relationship.
The Gita's devotional path rests on Ishvara: surrender to the Lord, and he promises to carry what devotees lack and preserve what they have.