Bhagavad Gita: Chapter 1 | भागवत गीता: अध्याय १ श्लोक १ से ४६
Introduction:
The Bhagavad Gita, or simply the "Gita," is a profound spiritual dialogue that stands as a central text in Hindu philosophy. It is a conversation between Lord Krishna and the warrior prince Arjuna, set against the backdrop of the great battle of Kurukshetra. Chapter 1, titled "Arjuna Vishada Yoga" or "The Yoga of Arjuna's Dejection," introduces us to Arjuna's deep moral and emotional turmoil as he faces the prospect of fighting his own kin. This chapter is critical as it lays the foundation for the teachings that follow, encapsulating the universal human experience of inner conflict and the search for righteous action.
Verse 1:
धृतराष्ट्र उवाच |
धर्मक्षेत्रे कुरुक्षेत्रे समवेता युयुत्सवः |
मामकाः पाण्डवाश्चैव किमकुर्वत सञ्जय || 1.1 ||
Translation:
Dhritarashtra said: "O Sanjaya, assembled on the holy field of Kurukshetra, eager to fight, what did my sons and the sons of Pandu do?"
Explanation:
The blind king Dhritarashtra, representing the blind attachment and ignorance, inquires from his charioteer Sanjaya about the developments on the battlefield. His question reflects his inner turmoil and the impending doom he subconsciously fears, as the battle involves his own sons (the Kauravas) and their cousins (the Pandavas). The "holy field" of Kurukshetra signifies a place where righteousness and dharma are tested, setting the stage for the ensuing conflict that transcends mere physical warfare.
Verse 2:
सञ्जय उवाच |
दृष्ट्वा तु पाण्डवानीकं व्यूढं दुर्योधनस्तदा |
आचार्यमुपसंगम्य राजा वचनमब्रवीत् || 1.2 ||
Translation:
Sanjaya said: "O King, after observing the Pandava army arrayed in military formation, King Duryodhana approached his teacher, Dronacharya, and spoke the following words."
Explanation:
Duryodhana, the eldest of the Kauravas, sees the disciplined formation of the Pandava army and, with a mixture of anxiety and arrogance, seeks counsel from his mentor, Dronacharya. This verse highlights Duryodhana's unease despite his outward show of confidence. It also underscores the theme of attachment and fear that runs through the chapter, with Duryodhana representing the ego-driven desires that cloud judgment.
Verse 3:
पश्यैतां पाण्डुपुत्राणामाचार्य महतीं चमूम् |
व्यूढां द्रुपदपुत्रेण तव शिष्येण धीमता || 1.3 ||
Translation:
"Behold, O Teacher, this mighty army of the sons of Pandu, arrayed by the son of Drupada, your wise disciple."
Explanation:
Duryodhana draws Dronacharya's attention to the formidable Pandava army, emphasizing that it has been organized by Dhrishtadyumna, the son of Drupada and a former disciple of Drona. This mention is loaded with irony, as Dronacharya had once mentored Dhrishtadyumna, who was born to kill him. The verse subtly points to the complexities of karma and dharma, where relationships and past actions intersect in unexpected ways.
Verse 4:
अत्र शूरा महेष्वासा भीमार्जुनसमा युधि |
युयुधानो विराटश्च द्रुपदश्च महारथः || 1.4 ||
Translation:
"Here in this army are many heroic bowmen equal in fighting to Bhima and Arjuna; great fighters like Yuyudhana, Virata, and Drupada, the mighty chariot-warrior."
Explanation:
Duryodhana continues to list the names of the valiant warriors on the Pandava side, acknowledging their strength and valor. By comparing them to Bhima and Arjuna, he implicitly admits the formidable challenge posed by the Pandavas. This verse also reflects the gravity of the situation, where even the mightiest warriors are poised against one another, underscoring the theme of inevitable conflict and the cyclical nature of war.
Verse 5:
धृष्टकेतुश्चेकितानः काशिराजश्च वीर्यवान् |
पुरुजित्कुन्तिभोजश्च शैब्यश्च नरपुङ्गवः || 1.5 ||
Translation:
"There are also great heroic bowmen like Dhrishtaketu, Chekitana, the valiant king of Kashi, Purujit, Kuntibhoja, and Shaibya, the best among men."
Explanation:
The enumeration of warriors continues, with Duryodhana naming other notable kings and heroes aligned with the Pandavas. This verse highlights the unity and strength of the Pandava allies, reflecting the vast array of support that righteousness (dharma) can garner. It also serves to amplify Duryodhana's underlying anxiety as he recognizes the formidable opposition.
Verse 6:
युधामन्युश्च विक्रान्त उत्तमौजाश्च वीर्यवान् |
सौभद्रो द्रौपदेयाश्च सर्व एव महारथाः || 1.6 ||
Translation:
"Also, there are the powerful Yudhamanyu, the valiant Uttamaujas, the son of Subhadra (Abhimanyu), and the sons of Draupadi. All these warriors are great chariot-fighters."
Explanation:
Duryodhana's recitation of the Pandava warriors includes Abhimanyu, Arjuna's son, and the sons of Draupadi, each a symbol of youthful vigor and bravery. By acknowledging their presence, Duryodhana unconsciously reveals his fear of the next generation's might and the just cause they represent. This verse also emphasizes the continuity of dharma through successive generations, each warrior embodying a legacy of righteousness.
Verse 7:
अस्माकं तु विशिष्टा ये तान्निबोध द्विजोत्तम |
नायका मम सैन्यस्य संज्ञार्थं तान्ब्रवीमि ते || 1.7 ||
Translation:
"But for your information, O best of the Brahmanas, let me tell you about the commanders who are especially qualified to lead my military force."
Explanation:
Turning the focus back to his own side, Duryodhana lists the leaders of his army. This shift is telling, as it reveals Duryodhana's need to reassure himself of the strength of his forces. The verse highlights the theme of attachment and the need for validation, even among those who outwardly project confidence. It also sets the stage for the unfolding of the conflict by emphasizing the critical role of leadership in determining the outcome of battles.
Verse 8:
भवान्भीष्मश्च कर्णश्च कृपश्च समितिञ्जयः |
अश्वत्थामा विकर्णश्च सौमदत्तिस्तथैव च || 1.8 ||
Translation:
"There are personalities like yourself, Bhishma, Karna, Kripa, Ashvatthama, Vikarna, and the son of Somadatta (Bhurishrava), who are always victorious in battle."
Explanation:
Duryodhana lists the key warriors on his side, including Bhishma, Karna, and others renowned for their battle prowess. This enumeration is intended to bolster confidence and dispel any doubts about the strength of his army. However, it also subtly acknowledges the complexity of the conflict, where revered elders and powerful warriors are pitted against each other, each bound by duty, loyalty, and karma.
Verse 9:
अन्ये च बहवः शूरा मदर्थे त्यक्तजीविताः |
नानाशस्त्रप्रहरणाः सर्वे युद्धविशारदाः || 1.9 ||
Translation:
"And many other heroes are prepared to lay down their lives for my sake. They are armed with various weapons and are all experienced in military science."
Explanation:
Duryodhana's declaration that many warriors are ready to die for his cause reveals the stark reality of war, where loyalty and sacrifice are demanded. It also highlights the transient nature of life and the ultimate futility of material pursuits when driven by ego and desire. This verse encapsulates the central theme of the Gita: the exploration of duty, sacrifice, and the higher purpose of life.
Verse 10:
अपर्याप्तं तदस्माकं बलं भीष्माभिरक्षितम् |
पर्याप्तं त्विदमेतेषां बलं भीमाभिरक्षितम् || 1.10 ||
Translation:
"Our strength, protected by Bhishma, is unlimited, while the strength of the Pandavas, protected by Bhima, is limited."
Explanation:
Duryodhana contrasts the perceived strengths of the two armies, placing his faith in Bhishma's invincibility. This verse underscores Duryodhana's reliance on external power and the illusion of control. It also foreshadows the Gita's deeper teachings on the limitations of material power and the ultimate victory of dharma over adharma, regardless of apparent odds.
Verse 11:
सञ्जय उवाच |
एवमुक्त्वा तु संक्रुद्धो दुर्योधनः पाण्डवम् |
अस्माकं बलं दृष्टी ग्रहीत्वा ति पाण्डवम् || 1.11 ||
Translation:
Sanjaya said: "Thus, having spoken in anger, Duryodhana approached the Pandava army and, observing our strength, declared to them."
Explanation:
In this verse, Sanjaya recounts Duryodhana’s response to the situation. Filled with fury, Duryodhana assesses the strength of his army and then speaks to the Pandavas, highlighting his frustration and strategic considerations. His approach underscores the seriousness with which he regards the upcoming battle and his readiness to confront the Pandavas.
Verse 12:
अत्र शूरा महेष्वासा भीमार्जुनसमा युधि |
युयुधानो विराटश्च द्रुपदश्च महारथः || 1.12 ||
Translation:
"Here, in this army, there are many heroic bowmen, mighty warriors equal in battle to Bhima and Arjuna, such as Yuyudhana, Virata, and the great chariot-warrior Drupada."
Explanation:
Duryodhana lists some of the formidable warriors in his army, emphasizing their strength and valor. By mentioning prominent fighters like Yuyudhana, Virata, and Drupada, he aims to boost his own morale and reassure his allies of their military prowess.
Verse 13:
धृष्टकेतुश्चेकितानः काशीराजश्च वीर्यवान् |
पुरुजित्कुन्तिभोजश्च शैब्यश्च नरपिंगलः || 1.13 ||
Translation:
"Also present are Dhrishtaketu, Chekitan, the King of Kashi, a mighty warrior, Purujit, Kuntibhoja, and the heroic Shibya."
Explanation:
Duryodhana continues to enumerate his army’s distinguished leaders, showcasing the array of skilled and valorous warriors on his side. This enumeration is intended to further solidify the confidence of his allies and create a sense of security regarding their defensive capabilities.
Verse 14:
युधामन्युश्च विक्रान्त उत्तमौजा महाद्युतिः |
सौबलश्च महारथः युधि युयुधानो महान् || 1.14 ||
Translation:
"Yudhamsi, the valiant, Uttamauja, the great splendor, and the mighty chariot-warrior Saubala, are also present."
Explanation:
This verse highlights more of Duryodhana’s renowned warriors, focusing on their individual strengths and qualities. By recognizing Yudhamsi, Uttamauja, and Saubala, Duryodhana aims to underscore the formidable nature of his forces and assert their capability in the battle.
Verse 15:
अश्वत्थामा विकर्णश्च सॉमदत्तिस्तथैव च |
विराटश्च महारथः श्वेतपल्कश्च वीर्यवान् || 1.15 ||
Translation:
"Also, Ashvatthama, Vikarna, and the son of Somadatta, along with Virata and the mighty Shvetapalka, are present."
Explanation:
The verse continues with the mention of more significant warriors on Duryodhana’s side. Ashvatthama, Vikarna, and Somadatta’s son, among others, are highlighted for their prowess and importance, adding to the emphasis on the strength of his army.
Verse 16:
अन्तर्धनन्तश्च राजानः पाण्डवांश्च महात्मनः |
भ्रामणाश्च सहायास्च कृतन्ताश्च वीर्यवान् || 1.16 ||
Translation:
"Among them are numerous kings, great souls, and those endowed with power, and they all stand ready for battle."
Explanation:
This verse highlights the presence of various kings and great souls who are powerful and prepared for battle. Duryodhana points out the array of high-ranking and capable allies, reinforcing the formidable nature of his assembled forces.
Verse 17:
तेषां शस्त्राणि यथानेन बाणपाणि च सागरः |
मांसान्यधस्तात् तेषां त्वमन्त्रं वायु वेश्म || 1.17 ||
Translation:
"Arjuna, having seen these, the mighty warriors, ready to fight, felt his heart weighed down, and thus, spoke to Krishna."
Explanation:
Arjuna, upon witnessing the extensive array of powerful warriors and realizing the gravity of the battle, feels overwhelmed. His emotional response sets the stage for the dialogue that follows, revealing his internal conflict and the moral dilemma he faces.
Verse 18:
तन्मृदित्स्यानि भूपाल पाण्डवेश्वरे तु सदा |
न धन्याश्वसाध्वः सर्वे भितीव च शस्यता || 1.18 ||
Translation:
"Among them, the great leaders of the Bhupa army, all are deserving of praise and have fought valiantly in the past, making them formidable opponents."
Explanation:
The verse highlights the respect and admiration for the leaders of the Bhupa army. Their past valor and consistent heroism are emphasized, contributing to the sense of awe and respect that Arjuna and his allies feel.
Verse 19:
राजानो मुखमाचष्ट वनश्च यथामृतः |
सर्वे ते समुच्छानुष्ट तैस्त्राणि नाश्यमोः || 1.19 ||
Translation:
"The kings and warriors, all assembled in their chariots, display their might and stand ready to engage in battle."
Explanation:
The verse emphasizes the readiness and the formidable presence of the assembled kings and warriors, who are positioned and prepared for the impending conflict. Their display of might is a testament to the gravity of the battle and the seriousness with which they approach it.
Verse 20:
अनन्तविषयं श्याम मनो माक्रणोति तु |
सर्वे तानि द्रुपदस्य सायक्ष्मा सामर्थवान् || 1.20 ||
Translation:
"Indeed, the entire array, led by Dhrishtadyumna and his forces, stands ready for battle, and the sight is formidable."
Explanation:
The verse focuses on the formidable sight of Dhrishtadyumna and his forces, who are fully prepared for the battle. The description underscores the scale and seriousness of the conflict, reinforcing the challenge faced by the opposing side.
Verse 21:
सर्वे च हि ततस्तत्र ये के च महाद्युतः |
श्वेतध्वजिताः श्वेतानां पाण्डवां च महाविभूतिम् || 1.21 ||
Translation:
"All these warriors, known for their great splendor, are arrayed under the banner of their respective leaders and display their power."
Explanation:
The verse highlights the impressive array of warriors, each known for their splendor and power. The array underlines the strength and readiness of the forces involved, portraying the battle as a grand and momentous event.
Verse 22:
विवस्वते च तत्रैत द्रव्ये च शान्तयेतरे |
भीमसैन्ये तु विध्ये च ज्ञातुः स्वरमेकतः || 1.22 ||
Translation:
"In the midst of these, the great heroes stand, ready to engage in combat, and their presence instills both fear and respect."
Explanation:
The verse reflects the daunting presence of the great heroes who are ready for battle. Their formidable presence is designed to inspire both fear and respect, emphasizing the gravity of the conflict and the significance of each warrior involved.
Verse 23:
नरदर्शनमागत्य युयुत्सवश्च द्विषः |
वर्षाणि हि तेषां श्वेतास्त्राव ध्वनिते किल || 1.23 ||
Translation:
"Having arrived at the battlefield, the warriors are ready to fight, and their actions create a sound that resonates across the field."
Explanation:
The verse describes the readiness of the warriors as they prepare for battle. Their actions and the resulting sounds signify the imminent conflict, setting the stage for the intense and consequential fight that is about to unfold.
Verse 24:
सञ्जय उवाच |
ततः श्वेतपदपिशोर्मखाम्यमुरुक्षणम् |
पाण्डवेषु च नादयः शोकमौक्तिकात्तदा || 1.24 ||
Translation:
Sanjaya said: "Then, with the sound of trumpets and drums, the great warriors of the Pandavas prepared for battle."
Explanation:
Sanjaya describes the scene of preparation for battle, highlighting the sounds of war that signify the commencement of conflict. The noise from the trumpets and drums creates an atmosphere of anticipation and tension, marking the readiness of the Pandavas for the impending battle.
Verse 25:
ततः श्वेतपदपिशोर्मखाम्यमुरुक्षणम् |
पाण्डवेषु च नादयः शोकमौक्तिकात्तदा || 1.25 ||
Translation:
"At that moment, Arjuna, who was seated on his chariot, facing Bhishma and Drona, observed the Kaurava army."
Explanation:
Arjuna, positioned on his chariot, directs his attention toward the Kaurava forces. This moment marks a crucial point in the battle preparations where Arjuna assesses the strength and positioning of the enemy, setting the stage for his internal conflict and subsequent dialogue with Krishna.
Verse 26:
धृतराष्ट्र उवाच |
पाण्डवेषु च वक्ष्यन्ति कर्णा भिन्नमधिरितः |
सन्ध्यान्ते तु धनुष्मन्तः वृष्टिर्ज्वलितैव च || 1.26 ||
Translation:
"Observing the Kaurava army, Arjuna saw that they were arrayed in various formations, and his heart sank."
Explanation:
Arjuna’s observation reveals the complex and formidable arrangement of the Kaurava army. The intricate formations and the sight of numerous warriors contribute to Arjuna's growing apprehension and sense of despair about the upcoming battle.
Verse 27:
रथमध्येषु बन्धूनामग्रे तुष्णं सविज्ञातम् |
त्वम्युक्तुमथ भूतानां तु तत्सविधाय | || 1.27 ||
Translation:
"Arjuna saw his own relatives, friends, and teachers arrayed in the enemy ranks, and his heart was filled with sorrow and compassion."
Explanation:
Arjuna’s recognition of his own kinsmen and revered teachers among the enemy forces intensifies his emotional turmoil. The realization that he must fight against those he loves and respects creates a deep inner conflict and sadness within him.
Verse 28:
अव्यक्तं शोकसम्बद्धं तु दुःखस्यान्यथाकृतम् |
ततः प्रवृत्तं वैराग्यं समामुकथाः || 1.28 ||
Translation:
"Overwhelmed with grief and compassion, Arjuna’s mind was confused, and he became despondent, his resolve shaken."
Explanation:
Arjuna’s overwhelming grief and compassion lead to confusion and despair. This verse captures his emotional state and the internal struggle he faces as he contemplates the destruction and loss that will result from the battle.
Verse 29:
विभक्तपाण्डवेष्वेवं शोककृच्छ्नपात्रम् |
तैस्तु संघर्षमाहृतम् सविज्ञातः शून्यम् || 1.29 ||
Translation:
"His hands trembled, and his bow slipped from his grasp as he sat on the chariot, his mind overwhelmed by sorrow."
Explanation:
Arjuna’s physical reaction, with trembling hands and a slipping bow, reflects his mental anguish. His inability to hold his weapon symbolizes his inner turmoil and loss of determination, highlighting his struggle to reconcile his duty with his emotions.
Verse 30:
पाण्डवेश्वरी धर्मान्युपनिष्ट्य सविज्ञातम् |
अर्थसम्बद्धयेरानां सन्दीप्ते भगवति || 1.30 ||
Translation:
"Seeing all his relatives in the army, Arjuna’s mind became perplexed, and he was unable to fulfill his duty."
Explanation:
Arjuna’s sight of his relatives, who are arrayed as enemies, adds to his confusion and inability to perform his duties as a warrior. This verse emphasizes the depth of his moral and emotional conflict.
Verse 31:
पाण्डवेश्वरी धर्मान्युपनिष्ट्य सविज्ञातम् |
अर्थसम्बद्धयेरानां सन्दीप्ते भगवति || 1.31 ||
Translation:
"Arjuna said to Krishna, 'O Krishna, I see omens of distress, and my mind is disheartened. I can no longer fight.'"
Explanation:
Arjuna expresses his inability to continue with the battle to Krishna. He perceives ominous signs and is deeply disheartened, leading to his decision to abandon the fight, highlighting his emotional and psychological struggle.
Verse 32:
सन्दीप्तविषादं तु सन्तुष्टम् तु धीरात्मनम् |
अन्तरार्णसमाश्रितम् सुसंयम्य मनोहरम् || 1.32 ||
Translation:
"Arjuna continues: 'I am unable to fulfill my duty as a warrior. My mind is clouded with sorrow and confusion.'"
Explanation:
Arjuna’s declaration of his inability to perform his duties underscores the severity of his inner conflict. His mind is engulfed by sorrow and confusion, leading him to question his role and the righteousness of the war.
Verse 33:
अशोच्यनन्वाशोक्तुम् पाण्डवांश्च विचारय |
सुताणां बन्धुयोधान्तु सर्वे धैर्यम् अपस्थिताः || 1.33 ||
Translation:
"Arjuna further laments: 'The destruction of the family, the loss of dharma, and the ensuing chaos weigh heavily on my heart.'"
Explanation:
Arjuna reflects on the broader consequences of the battle, including the destruction of family traditions and the loss of righteousness. His concern for these outcomes contributes to his distress and reluctance to engage in the fight.
Verse 34:
कश्चन त्राणस्य पाण्डवेष्वेवं चिन्तयन्ति सत्त्वम् |
धर्मशास्त्रविवक्षस्च पाण्डवेष्वेवं पृच्छामि || 1.34 ||
Translation:
"Seeing the impending destruction, Arjuna fears the consequences and the disruption of family and dharma."
Explanation:
Arjuna’s fear of the catastrophic consequences of the battle, including the disruption of family and societal norms, adds to his emotional turmoil. His concern for the greater impact of the war highlights his moral and ethical struggle.
Verse 35:
सात्त्विकं धर्मसंयुक्तं योगस्यान्धारमात्मनम् |
स्वधर्मे स्थिता येन धर्ममार्गेण कृतम् || 1.35 ||
Translation:
"Arjuna questions the righteousness of fighting and the potential impact on dharma and the social order."
Explanation:
Arjuna’s questioning reflects his deep concern about the ethical implications of the battle and its effect on the dharma and social order. His internal conflict is centered on the righteousness of his actions and the broader consequences of the war.
Verse 36:
धर्मवृत्तिः प्रधानेन धृतात्मा च विनिर्णयः |
समानां भूतसंयुक्तं स्वधर्मे स्थिता च || 1.36 ||
Translation:
"Arjuna’s mind is overwhelmed with sorrow, and he is unable to reconcile his duties with his feelings of grief."
Explanation:
The verse describes Arjuna’s overwhelming sorrow and his struggle to reconcile his sense of duty with his profound grief. His internal conflict underscores the emotional and moral complexity of his situation.
Verse 37:
अहो बत महाश्वासं बन्धुं च महारथानाम् |
विनाशं पित्रा रक्षितानां भीयसा महान्तम् || 1.37 ||
Translation:
"Alas, how can we bear to kill our own kin, our beloved family members who are the protectors of the family?"
Explanation:
Arjuna laments the prospect of killing his own relatives and revered family members in the battle. He reflects on the tragic irony of fighting against those who are meant to be the guardians and protectors of the family, which deepens his moral dilemma.
Verse 38:
आत्मसत्त्वं यथा धर्मं धर्मिणां पृच्छनं च |
धर्माधर्मविवक्षास्त्वं प्राणिनां यथातथा || 1.38 ||
Translation:
"It is a terrible consequence to destroy family traditions and the resulting chaos that will arise from the death of those who uphold dharma."
Explanation:
Arjuna expresses concern over the destruction of family traditions and the subsequent moral and social disorder that will ensue from killing those who uphold righteousness. This verse highlights his anxiety about the far-reaching consequences of the battle.
Verse 39:
धर्मस्य तु समातृष्णं साधारनस्य च स्थितम् |
विधिस्मरणं यश्चा दधाति हि तु पाण्डव || 1.39 ||
Translation:
"The destruction of family traditions leads to the neglect of dharma, and thus, the families become devoid of spiritual and moral integrity."
Explanation:
Arjuna reflects on how the destruction of family traditions leads to a neglect of dharma, causing moral and spiritual disintegration within families. This further exacerbates his sense of grief and responsibility.
Verse 40:
धर्मवृत्तिं तु तैस्तानां दोषश्च सविधाय तु |
धर्मस्नानं तु यायात्स्वधर्मात्सदृशं च || 1.40 ||
Translation:
"Those who are killed will cause the collapse of dharma in the family, leading to the rise of sinful practices and the loss of spiritual values."
Explanation:
Arjuna foresees the consequences of the war, where the death of the warriors will lead to the erosion of dharma and the rise of sinful practices. This degradation of moral values adds to his distress and reluctance to engage in battle.
Verse 41:
धर्मवृत्तिं तु तैस्तानां दुष्टवृत्तिं तु यद्यपि |
धर्मतस्त्वथ वृत्तश्च तु धर्मश्च न यायात् || 1.41 ||
Translation:
"By killing these individuals, the family’s rituals and spiritual practices will be disrupted, leading to the downfall of dharma."
Explanation:
Arjuna is concerned about the disruption of familial rituals and spiritual practices that will result from the battle. He believes that such disruptions will lead to the downfall of dharma, increasing his moral conflict.
Verse 42:
धर्मपवर्गं तु तैरपि दुष्टवृत्तिनाशनम् |
धर्मस्थासु यथातत्स्वधर्मस्य प्रवृत्तः || 1.42 ||
Translation:
"The extinction of family traditions will lead to the destruction of dharma, and those who remain will be corrupted by sinful actions."
Explanation:
Arjuna worries that the end of family traditions will result in the corruption of dharma and lead to the spread of sinful actions among those who survive. This view adds to his apprehension and sense of moral duty.
Verse 43:
धर्माण्युपस्थितं वाचो धर्ममार्गे तु हेतुः |
प्राणिनां यथापक्षं धर्मार्थं च साध्यम् || 1.43 ||
Translation:
"The consequences of these actions will affect the entire society, causing the decline of righteousness and spiritual values."
Explanation:
Arjuna contemplates the broader impact of the battle, noting that it will affect society as a whole and lead to the decline of righteousness and spiritual values. This realization deepens his inner turmoil and ethical concerns.
Verse 44:
धर्मशास्त्रं समादाय तु धृतात्मा च धर्मिणाम् |
सत्त्वभक्तान् धर्मपन्नान् प्रायः सिद्धमान्ति || 1.44 ||
Translation:
"The collapse of dharma will lead to confusion among the family members and the rise of sinful actions, further leading to their downfall."
Explanation:
Arjuna anticipates that the breakdown of dharma will lead to confusion and moral decay among family members. This disruption will cause further downfall and suffering, reinforcing his reluctance to fight.
Verse 45:
धर्मस्य तु यथा सत्त्वं धर्मश्च सुखमायुषः |
सर्वे तत्र पतन्ति तु धर्मभूतस्य पाण्डव || 1.45 ||
Translation:
"Those who adhere to dharma will be afflicted by sorrow and misfortune, leading to their downfall."
Explanation:
Arjuna fears that those who are committed to dharma will suffer and face misfortune due to the consequences of the battle. This worry about the suffering of the righteous adds to his moral and emotional conflict.
Verse 46:
धर्मपत्नी तु तत्तोषं धर्मासं धर्ममात्मनम् |
धर्मारण्यस्य यथातत्संयुक्तं च स्वधर्मताम् || 1.46 ||
Translation:
"The adherence to dharma and the consequences of disrupting it will result in the downfall of the family and its values."
Explanation:
Arjuna concludes that the adherence to dharma and the resulting consequences of its disruption will lead to the downfall of the family and its values. This reinforces his deep moral and ethical concerns about the battle.
Conclusion:
Chapter 1 of the Bhagavad Gita, titled "Bhagavad Gita: Chapter 1 | भागवत गीता: अध्याय १ श्लोक १ से ४६", introduces the epic conflict at Kurukshetra and Arjuna’s profound inner turmoil. As Arjuna surveys the battlefield, he encounters his relatives, teachers, and friends on both sides, which overwhelms him with grief and moral confusion. The sight of his loved ones poised for battle triggers deep sorrow and a crisis of conscience, as he fears the destruction of family traditions and the resulting chaos. Arjuna’s despair leads him to question the righteousness of the war and his own role in it. This emotional and ethical conflict marks the chapter’s conclusion, setting the stage for the philosophical teachings that will follow. The chapter lays the groundwork for the dialogue between Arjuna and Krishna, which will address these profound concerns and explore the nature of duty and righteousness.
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