Geethartha Chinthane-94: Listening to distress as a remedy

Udupi: In the first chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna listens to all of Arjuna’s grievances without interruption. This entire chapter is dedicated to Arjuna’s concerns, as he has not yet surrendered, and Krishna refrains from offering any response. To resolve mental issues, it’s essential to allow the person to express their problems fully. If not given the chance to speak, these issues linger in the mind.

In psychology, there is a need for someone who can listen to uncover the root cause. If interrupted, the unspoken burden remains within and festers. The absence of people to listen is a primary cause of mental distress. This problem, prevalent in American households, has spread to India as well.

The listener, however, must be trustworthy; otherwise, they may misuse the shared feelings. A listener should offer understanding, not exploitation. Initially, Arjuna argued against fighting but later reached a point where he humbly asked Krishna to define dharma and adharma. Doctors, for instance, need immense patience, listening intently to patients even when they know the diagnosis. This patient listening itself can relieve half of the patient’s burden. Without it, patients struggle to find trust.

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

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