The Yoga of the Vision of the Universal Form

Arjuna had indeed witnessed three distinct forms of God in recent moments: the awe-inspiring Cosmic Figure, the familiar four-armed figure of Bhagawān Vishnu, and the human-like two-armed form of Bhagawān Krishna. The verse does not explicitly specify which form of the Lord it is referring to, leaving room for interpretation. Krishnites often interpret this verse as referring to the two-armed human form of Bhagawān Krishna. This interpretation highlights the uniqueness of this form, which became rare after Bhagawān Krishna’s departure from the earthly realm, though at that time this form was not rare; everyone present there could see it. On the other hand, those who emphasize Bhagawān Vishnu may interpret this "rare form" as the four-armed representation of Bhagawān Vishnu. This was indeed a rare form even at that time. Devotees on Earth occasionally have the privilege of witnessing this form, and gods may also have the opportunity to behold it, though it is not a common occurrence.

It is important to note that all three forms—the Cosmic Form, the four-armed Vishnu figure, and the two-armed Krishna form—are considered rare and extraordinary manifestations of the Divine, not frequently seen by either gods or humans, as indicated by the Lord Himself in verse 11:48. Each of these forms carries its own significance and divine attributes in the spiritual and philosophical traditions that revere them..