Geethartha Chintane 96: Web of delusion vs. awakened self

Sri Krishna smiles subtly yet deeply (tamuvāca hṛṣīkeśaḥ prahasanniva bhārata | 2-10). Arjuna, caught in a web of conflicting thoughts, refers to the Kauravas as great sinners on one hand, and as a source of sin if killed, on the other. Alternating between “I” and “we,” his words contradict one another. He stands in the middle of the two armies, deeply distressed: sēnayōrubhayōrmadhyē viṣīdantamidam vacaḥ || (2-10).

While interpreting this, Madhvacharya explains that Arjuna is torn between wicked thoughts, a web of delusion (vyāmōha jāla), and the awakened self (jāgruta ātmā). There is a difference between mōha (attachment) and vyāmōha (special delusion). While familial attachment (bandhu prajñe) is not wrong, intense delusion (vyāmōha) is.

Mōha is like a net or trap—once caught, it is difficult to escape. It robs one of discernment (viveka shakti) and hinders the ability to decide what is right or wrong. The mind insists familial bonds are correct, but the awakened mind rejects this.

This is why, as per medical ethics, even an expert doctor refrains from performing surgeries on close relatives like a spouse, parent, or child. Instead, they ensure the procedure is conducted by another specialist. The reason is the emotional bias arising from familial bonds, which can cloud judgment.

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