अथ चैनं नित्यजातं नित्यं वा मन्यसे मृतम्। तथापि त्वं महाबाहो नैवं शोचितुमर्हसि
Krishna is addressing Arjuna as 'Mahabaho', which means 'mighty-armed one'. By using this title, Krishna reminds Arjuna of his strength and valor, encouraging him to rise above sorrow and confusion. This address is both affectionate and empowering, aiming to inspire Arjuna to act according to his dharma without succumbing to grief or doubt.
These verses offer a spiritual view of the enduring self. In a period of loss or change, you can consider that perspective without demanding that grief disappear or neglecting care for your body.
Go deeper into this verse
According to this teaching on Arjuna, what are the three actions people take in relation to the soul that are described as marvellous?
The verse describes three actions as marvellous regarding the soul: some people see the soul as marvellous, some speak of it as marvellous, and some hear of it as marvellous. These actions highlight the rarity and wonder associated with truly understanding the soul’s nature.
In Chapter 2, Verse 26, what does it mean when Krishna says, 'Hardly anyone perceives this soul as marvellous' in this teaching on Arjuna?
When Krishna says that hardly anyone perceives the soul as marvellous, he is indicating that the true nature of the soul is profound and mysterious. Very few people truly grasp its essence, and those who do are often filled with awe. This statement urges one to recognize that spiritual understanding is rare and precious.
Why does Krishna suggest that even if the soul is constantly born and dying, there is still no reason to grieve?
Krishna suggests that if, hypothetically, the soul were subject to constant birth and death, grieving would still be unnecessary. Birth and death would be natural processes, and sorrow would not change their occurrence. This reasoning helps Arjuna see that mourning is unproductive, regardless of one’s belief about the soul’s immortality.
How does the description of the soul as something 'heard of, spoken about, and seen as marvellous' guide a seeker’s approach to self-knowledge?
The description encourages a seeker to approach self-knowledge with humility and wonder. Since understanding the soul is rare and awe-inspiring, one should listen deeply, inquire sincerely, and remain open to the profound mysteries of existence. It teaches that the journey to know the self is not common and requires devotion, patience, and reverence.
Or if thou thinkest of him as being constantly born and constantly dying, even then, O mighty-armed, thou shouldst not grieve.
What do “thy” and “thou” mean?
“Thy” means “your”; “thou” and “thee” mean “you”; “thine” means “yours.” This historical translation is preserved as published.