The Yoga of Knowledge and Wisdom

Krishna describes His manifestations in strength and desire. 'Balaṁ balavatāṁ cāham kāma-rāga-vivarjitam'—I am the strength of the strong, devoid of desire and passion. Krishna's strength is pure, free from attachment. 'Dharmāviruddho bhūteṣu kāmo 'smi'—I am desire in beings that is not contrary to righteousness. This is crucial: Krishna is not desire itself, but righteous desire—desire aligned with dharma (duty/righteousness). This verse shows the distinction between pure strength (Krishna's strength) and attachment-driven strength, and between righteous desire and unrighteous desire. Krishna manifests as the pure source of strength and as righteous desire.