Chapter 1: Arjuna Viṣhāda Yoga – Transforming Grief into Yoga / Verse 33

Explanation of verses 1.32, 1.33 and 1.34:

Obviously Arjuna is erring grievously in judging the motivation for fighting the war. If it were for the selfish objective of regaining their kingdom, certainly the battle would have been wrong and sinful. But the persuasion was not personal at all.

Yudhishthira wanted to avoid bloodshed, and to this end he was prepared to go to any extent in relinquishing matters.

That is how he was ready to accept only five villages for them to live. But Duryodhana sternly denied even that! Thus, the war turned out to be not an option at all. It was an inevitable course, thrust on them, on all accounts.

Krishna’s stand was that the first step towards war should not be taken by Yudhishthira’s side. They should only defend themselves. This dictum was strictly adhered to at every step.

But Arjuna somehow was missing this point. However, he was sincere in opening his heart to Krishna without any reservation. Also, he was ready to follow whatever Krishna said. It is a quality any genuine seeker should have and display liberally.

Actually, human life is meant to be on the path of evolution. The body grows till one becomes an adult. All along, the child is being taught to think, understand and grow inwardly too. On gaining adulthood, he or she has to make timely decisions and choices. This calls for dedicated reflection and rumination. Maybe Arjuna missed it all this while.

He should, however, be credited for reflecting at least now. Evolution takes place only when one begins to think. Arjuna evidences the startling effects of timely introspection!