Geethartha Chinthane 92: A call to rise from mental slumber

War is nothing new for Arjuna. He, who has fought many battles before, earned the title ‘Hero of the Three Worlds.’ Couldn’t he have argued against war on previous occasions as well? This shows that Arjuna’s current argument holds no value—it is not a rational argument but merely an emotional outburst, a childish thought. While the sentiment that “fighting against elders is inappropriate” may have some weight, reasoning about what the war could change holds no value. This weakness of heart is also considered “petty” (kshudra) and not a significant flaw.

This newfound hesitation is trivial, and hence, one should overcome such a weak-hearted state. When Lord Krishna says, “Kshudram hridaya daurbalyam tyaktvottistha Parantapa,” (leave this petty weakness and arise, O Parantapa), he implies “uttishtha” (rise up) as if Arjuna is in a mental slumber, asleep from within. Krishna’s call is for him to awaken from this inner sleep.

Arjuna says, “How can I kill Bhishma and Drona? You used to tell us to respect them, and now you ask me to kill them. Drona is a great soul like a Guru. Bhishmacharya is like a father figure to us. I would rather live by begging than kill them. How can I do this? Answer my question.”

~ Sri Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji of Paryaya Sri Puthige Sri Krishna Matha

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