Krishna is the The Source of All Incarnations

Srimad Bhagavatam 1.3.23

In the nineteenth and twentieth incarnations, the Lord advented Himself as Lord Balarāma and Lord Kṛṣṇa in the family of Vṛṣṇi [the Yadu dynasty], and by so doing He removed the burden of the world.

While the previous verses in this chapter enumerate various incarnations, from the Kumaras to Lord Varaha, from Narada Muni to Kapila Deva, this verse marks a significant pivot. Lord Balarama and Lord Krishna are not ordinary incarnations but represent the original source from which all other incarnations emanate.

The title of this chapter, “Krishna is the Source of All Incarnations,” encapsulates this essential teaching. While the word avatara (one who descends) applies to all divine incarnations, Krishna is designated as the Avatari, the source of all avatars.

The Yadu Dynasty

The verse specifically mentions that these two supreme personalities appeared in the family of Vrishni, part of the illustrious Yadu dynasty. This royal lineage was blessed to receive the Lord Himself, not as an expansion or empowered being, but in His original form.

The appearance of both Balarama and Krishna in this family highlights the reciprocal relationship between the Lord and His devotees. The Yadu dynasty had accumulated immense spiritual piety over generations, qualifying them to receive the highest blessing conceivable—the personal presence of the Supreme Lord.

The Significance of Dual Appearance

Lord Balarama's appearance as the elder brother serves multiple purposes:

He represents the sankarshana expansion, the first manifestation of the Lord
He establishes the principle of service to Krishna, acting as His constant companion and servant
His white complexion complements Krishna's dark form, representing the complete manifestation of divine energy

Together, the two brothers enacted innumerable pastimes that continue to inspire devotees. From their childhood adventures in Vrindavan to their heroic deeds in Mathura and Dwaraka, every action served to attract conditioned souls back to their original spiritual consciousness.

Distinguishing the Avatari

Why is Krishna called the source of all incarnations rather than simply another avatar in the series? The Bhagavatam itself will provide the definitive answer in a subsequent verse (1.3.28):

All of the above-mentioned incarnations are either plenary portions or portions of the plenary portions of the Lord, but Lord Śrī Kṛṣṇa is the original Personality of Godhead. All of them appear on planets whenever there is a disturbance created by the atheists. The Lord incarnates to protect the theists.

This verse establishes beyond doubt that while other incarnations are expansions or empowered representations, Krishna Himself is the complete, original Supreme Personality of Godhead.

Practical Implications

Understanding Krishna as the Avatari has profound practical implications for spiritual practice:

1. Worship centers on Krishna. While all incarnations are worshipable and capable of granting liberation, focusing on Krishna and His pastimes connects one directly to the original source.

2. The Bhagavatam's purpose is revealed. The entire Srimad Bhagavatam, while discussing many incarnations, ultimately aims to establish pure devotion to Krishna.

3. The guru-disciple relationship is clarified. Just as Balarama serves Krishna while being non-different from Him, the spiritual master serves the Lord while carrying His full potency for delivering disciples.

This verse invites us to contemplate the extraordinary nature of Krishna's appearance. Not merely another incarnation among many, but the very source from which all divine manifestations flow. As we continue through this chapter, this understanding will be reinforced and deepened, revealing ever more clearly why Krishna consciousness stands at the pinnacle of spiritual realization.

Article based on lecture by Bhakti Raghava Swami: Krishna is the Avatari | SB 1.3.23