Verse 2.4 : Sankhya Yoga "Transcendental Knowledge"
Verse 4 of 72
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The Translation
“Arjuna said: O Madhusudana, how can I counter-attack with arrows in battle Bhishma and Drona, who are worthy of my worship, O slayer of enemies?”
Commentary & Insights
Arjuna tries to justify his position in response to Krishna's rebuke. He points out the absurdity of his situation: How can he shoot arrows at Bhishma (his grandfather who raised him) and Dronacharya (his teacher)? In Vedic culture, elders and gurus are pūjā-arhau (worthy of worship). Attacking them with deadly weapons feels like a terrible sin.
Practical Application
1
When facing a conflict of values involving people you respect, take time to weigh duty over personal affection.
Reflections & Notes
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Self-Reflection Prompts
- Have you ever faced a situation where personal loyalty conflicted with doing what was right? How did you resolve it?
- How do you handle situations where a respected figure (a teacher, mentor, or parent) makes an unethical choice?
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2.4
अर्जुन उवाच
Arjuna argues that even if they are fighting on the wrong side, their status as elders and gurus makes them worshipful, showing that he is still unable to separate personal relationship from moral duty.