Seeing the Divine in the World: The Vibhuti Yoga of the Tenth Chapter of the Bhagavad Gita as a Framework for Sacramental Vision and Ecological Ethics

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this research case study is to examine the Vibhuti Yoga of the Tenth Chapter of the Bhagavad Gita as a philosophical framework for cultivating a sacramental vision that perceives the divine as immanent within the natural and social world. It seeks to interpret how Krishna’s enumeration of divine manifestations provides a non-utilitarian ethical foundation for ecological responsibility, mental well-being, and value-based human conduct. Further, the study aims to contextualize these insights for contemporary society by systematically evaluating their relevance and applicability through qualitative exploratory analysis and strategic frameworks such as SWOC and ABCD.

Methodology: This qualitative exploratory case study draws upon information gathered from a range of credible sources, including scholarly databases such as Google Scholar, relevant academic websites, and insights generated through AI-driven GPT tools. The collected data are systematically examined using suitable analytical frameworks aligned with the stated objectives of the study.

Results/Analysis: The analysis reveals that the Vibhuti Yoga of the Tenth Chapter of the Bhagavad Gita effectively functions as a practical framework for cultivating a sacramental vision, enabling individuals to perceive divine immanence in natural, human, and cosmic excellence. The application of SWOC and ABCD analytical frameworks demonstrates that this vision significantly strengthens ecological ethics, psychological well-being, and value-based conduct by shifting human orientation from exploitation to reverence. Overall, the findings confirm that Vibhuti Yoga offers a coherent, non-utilitarian ethical model with strong relevance for contemporary environmental consciousness, education, and societal transformation.

Originality/Value: The originality of this research case study lies in its integrative reinterpretation of Vibhuti Yoga as a contemporary framework for sacramental vision and ecological ethics, systematically bridging classical Indian philosophy with modern ethical, psychological, and environmental discourses. Its value is further enhanced by the novel application of SWOC and ABCD analytical frameworks to a sacred text, offering a structured, interdisciplinary model that extends the relevance of the Bhagavad Gita beyond theology into education, policy, and sustainability studies.

Type of Paper: Qualitative Exploratory Research Analysis.