हतो वा प्राप्स्यसि स्वर्गं जित्वा वा भोक्ष्यसे महीम्। तस्मादुत्तिष्ठ कौन्तेय युद्धाय कृतनिश्चयः
Krishna is encouraging Arjuna to stand up and fight. He tells Arjuna that if he dies in battle, he will attain heaven, and if he is victorious, he will enjoy the kingdom on earth. Thus, Krishna urges Arjuna to act with firm resolve, highlighting that either outcome leads to a worthy result.
Responsibility may involve discomfort, but the battlefield setting is not a blanket instruction to fight every disagreement. Identify the obligation, the people affected, and a proportionate response.
What would a responsible and non-harmful response look like here?
Write a private reflectionGo deeper into this verse
According to the verse, what are the two possible outcomes for Arjuna if he participates in the battle?
The verse states that if Arjuna is killed in battle, he will attain heaven, and if he wins, he will enjoy ruling the earth. These are presented as honorable paths, each bringing its own reward.
What does the phrase 'stand up, Arjuna, determined to fight' suggest about Krishna's expectations?
The phrase emphasizes Krishna's expectation that Arjuna should rise above his doubts and confusion, and face the battle with determination and clarity. Krishna wants Arjuna to act with commitment and without hesitation, focusing on his duty as a warrior.
What does 'win heaven' signify for a warrior like Arjuna in this teaching?
For a warrior such as Arjuna, 'win heaven' signifies achieving a noble afterlife as a result of fulfilling his duty bravely, even if it leads to his death. It means his valor and self-sacrifice are valued and lead to spiritual elevation.
How does the promise of either heaven or earthly sovereignty help overcome fear and hesitation in action?
The promise of a positive outcome, regardless of victory or defeat, helps to remove the fear of loss and failure. Krishna's words encourage acting without attachment to results, focusing instead on duty. This teaching inspires courage, as it assures that sincere effort and righteous action are always rewarded, freeing the mind from hesitation.
Slain, thou wilt obtain heaven; victorious, thou wilt enjoy the earth; therefore stand up, O son of Kuntî, resolute to fight.
What do “thy” and “thou” mean?
“Thy” means “your”; “thou” and “thee” mean “you”; “thine” means “yours.” This historical translation is preserved as published.