अर्जुन उवाच कथं भीष्ममहं संख्ये द्रोणं च मधुसूदन। इषुभिः प्रतियोत्स्यामि पूजार्हावरिसूदन
Arjuna expresses hesitation about fighting against Bhishma and Drona.
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
Why does Arjuna refer to Bhishma and Drona as worthy of reverence in the battlefield?
Arjuna refers to Bhishma and Drona as worthy of reverence because they are his elders and teachers. Bhishma is his great-grandfather and Drona is his teacher. Their roles in his life demand deep respect from Arjuna, making it difficult for him to see them as adversaries.
What does Arjuna's question to Krishna reveal about his inner conflict in this teaching on Arjuna?
Arjuna's question reveals his inner conflict between his duty as a warrior and his personal feelings of reverence towards Bhishma and Drona. He is torn between following his Kshatriya duty to fight and his emotional bonds with those he respects deeply.
In Chapter 2, Verse 4, who is Arjuna addressing as 'Madhusudana' and 'Arisudana' in this conversation?
Arjuna is addressing Krishna as 'Madhusudana' and 'Arisudana'. These are appellations of Krishna, with 'Madhusudana' meaning the slayer of the demon Madhu, and 'Arisudana' meaning the destroyer of enemies.
What deeper meaning can be drawn from Arjuna's reluctance to fight Bhishma and Drona?
The deeper meaning of Arjuna's reluctance highlights the moral and ethical dilemmas faced in life and the struggle between duty and personal values. It shows the challenge of acting with detachment, where one must transcend personal attachments and fulfill one's responsibilities while maintaining respect and honor for others.
How, O Madhusûdana, shall I attack Bhîshma and Drona with arrows in battle, they who are worthy of reverence, O slayer of foes?