यद्यप्येते न पश्यन्ति लोभोपहतचेतसः। कुलक्षयकृतं दोषं मित्रद्रोहे च पातकम्
The phrase 'minds blinded by greed' suggests that these individuals are unable to see the consequences of their actions due to their overwhelming desire for wealth or power. Their judgment is clouded, preventing them from recognizing the moral and societal destruction they are causing.
Arjuna’s distress makes the cost of conflict visible. When a decision affects people you care about, pausing to understand your emotions can be more useful than pretending to be certain.
Go deeper into this verse
In Chapter 1, Verse 38, what are the consequences Arjuna mentions when he talks about 'destroying their own race'?
Arjuna refers to the grave consequences of destroying one's own race, which include the breakdown of family traditions and societal structures. Such actions lead to chaos and the loss of cultural and moral values that have been upheld by generations.
What sin is mentioned in connection with 'mitradohe' in the verse?
The term 'mitradohe' refers to the sin of betraying or harming friends. Arjuna highlights this as a significant moral failing that accompanies the destruction of one's own kin and community.
Why does Arjuna mention that some people do not perceive evil in their actions?
Arjuna points out that some people, due to their greed, fail to perceive the evil in their actions. Their desires overshadow their sense of right and wrong, leading them to disregard the harm they cause to their own family and community.
How does greed affect one's ability to discern right from wrong, as seen in this teaching on Even?
Greed can cloud one's judgment, making it difficult to discern right from wrong. It creates a tunnel vision where the pursuit of personal gain overshadows ethical considerations and the welfare of others. This verse illustrates how greed can lead individuals to ignore the destructive consequences of their actions.
Although these, with intelligence overpowered by greed, see no guilt in the destruction of a family, no crime in hostility to friends,