Verse 1.31 : Arjuna Vishada Yoga "The Grief of Arjuna"
Verse 31 of 47
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The Translation
“I do not see any good in killing my own kinsmen in this battle, nor do I desire victory, kingdom, or pleasures, O Keshava.”
Commentary & Insights
Arjuna continues to explain his reluctance to fight. He argues that killing his own family members will result in no good (śreyaḥ). Because he cannot see any benefit, he renounces the traditional rewards of a warrior—victory, kingdoms, and pleasures.
Practical Application
1
Be aware of confirmation bias today—are you interpreting events as negative 'signs' just because you are feeling anxious or fearful?
Reflections & Notes
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Self-Reflection Prompts
- Have you ever avoided doing the right thing because you couldn't see any immediate benefit for yourself?
- How do you distinguish between short-term pleasure (Preyas) and long-term spiritual welfare (Shreyas)?
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1.31
निमित्तानि च पश्यामि विपरीतानि केशव
Arjuna fails to see that 'good' (Shreyas) is attained by performing one's duty without attachment, whereas running away from duty out of personal grief is a form of spiritual ignorance.