सञ्जय उवाच एवमुक्त्वा हृषीकेशं गुडाकेशः परन्तप। न योत्स्य इति गोविन्दमुक्त्वा तूष्णीं बभूव ह
The speaker is Sanjaya, who narrates the events of the battlefield to King Dhritarashtra. He describes Arjuna's words and actions, providing an external perspective on the dialogue between Arjuna and Krishna.
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
What exact words does Arjuna use to express his decision about fighting in this teaching on Sanjaya?
Arjuna explicitly says to Krishna, 'I will not fight,' and then becomes silent. This shows his firm decision to refrain from participating in the battle at that moment.
How does Arjuna's behavior change after he tells Krishna he will not fight?
After declaring that he will not fight, Arjuna becomes silent. This silence suggests a deep internal conflict and emotional turmoil, indicating that he is overwhelmed and unable to continue the conversation immediately.
Why might Arjuna choose to remain silent after saying he will not fight?
Arjuna's silence likely reflects his inner struggle with the moral and emotional consequences of the battle. Having expressed his refusal to fight, he may feel conflicted, uncertain, or burdened by the gravity of his decision, leading to a pause for reflection or emotional processing.
What does Arjuna’s statement 'I will not fight' reveal about human hesitation in the face of duty and conflict?
Arjuna’s statement reveals the natural human hesitation when confronted with difficult duties that challenge personal values and attachments. It shows how fear, compassion, and doubt can cause a person to question their responsibilities, highlighting the complexity of acting in accordance with dharma (righteous duty) amidst emotional turmoil.
Gudâkesha, conqueror of his foes, having thus addressed Hrishîkesha and said to Govinda, "I will not fight!", became silent.