क्लैब्यं मा स्म गमः पार्थ नैतत्त्वय्युपपद्यते। क्षुद्रं हृदयदौर्बल्यं त्यक्त्वोत्तिष्ठ परन्तप
Krishna is speaking to Arjuna when he mentions 'unmanliness'.
Confusion can be the beginning of an honest conversation. If career or family advice seems contradictory, ask a trusted person a specific question rather than asking them to decide your whole life.
Go deeper into this verse
In Chapter 2, Verse 3, what does Krishna mean by 'yield not to unmanliness' in the context of this teaching on Arjuna?
Krishna is urging Arjuna not to succumb to weakness or cowardice. He emphasizes that such behavior is not fitting for someone of Arjuna's stature and encourages him to rise above these feelings.
Why does Krishna call Arjuna 'scorcher of enemies' in this teaching on Arjuna?
Krishna calls Arjuna 'scorcher of enemies' to remind him of his true nature and previous valor on the battlefield. This is meant to inspire Arjuna to overcome his current doubts and fears and to fulfill his duty as a warrior.
What is the significance of the phrase 'shaking off this paltry faint-heartedness' in Krishna's advice to Arjuna?
The phrase signifies that Krishna wants Arjuna to discard his current feelings of inadequacy and fear. Krishna considers these feelings trivial and urges Arjuna to regain his courage and determination to fight.
How does Krishna's advice to 'stand up' relate to the concept of duty in the Bhagavad Gita?
Krishna's advice to 'stand up' is a call to action, emphasizing the importance of duty, or 'dharma'. In the Bhagavad Gita, fulfilling one's duty without attachment or fear is a central teaching. Krishna is encouraging Arjuna to fulfill his role as a warrior, which is his dharma.
Yield not to impotence, O Partha! it doth not befit thee. Shake off this paltry faint-heartedness! Stand up, Parantapa!
What do “thy” and “thou” mean?
“Thy” means “your”; “thou” and “thee” mean “you”; “thine” means “yours.” This historical translation is preserved as published.