🕉️Sanskrit Subhashit

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar captures the pivotal moment of Arjuna's emotional breakdown. As Arjuna surveys the battlefield, he realizes that the 'enemy' consists of his own family members—his revered grandfathers, his teachers who taught him archery, his uncles, and his brothers. This realization shifts the context of the war from a political struggle to a personal tragedy for Arjuna, leading to the profound internal conflict that sets the stage for the Bhagavad Gita's teachings.

In professional life, one might face a situation where they have to evaluate a friend or relative's performance objectively. This verse highlights the difficulty of separating personal bonds from objective duties.

Arjuna stands in the middle of the battlefield and observes his relatives on both sides before the war begins.

Dnyaneshwar Maharaj emphasizes that leaders and influential figures carry a heavy social responsibility. Since the masses tend to follow the footsteps of the 'Great' (Samartha), any lapse in their conduct could mislead society. Thus, for the sake of social order and guidance, realized souls or leaders must continue to perform their duties with perfection, even if they have no personal gain from it.

A leader's behavior sets the standard for the team. For instance, if a CEO practices transparency and punctuality, the employees are likely to be honest and disciplined as well.

Shri Krishna, through Saint Dnyaneshwar, explains why leaders and realized souls must continue to perform their duties to set a standard for society.

In this verse, Saint Dnyaneshwar interprets Lord Krishna's initial reaction to Arjuna's despondency. Krishna questions Arjuna's sudden emotional breakdown, pointing out that he is acting without considering what is 'Uchita' (appropriate or righteous). Krishna challenges Arjuna's state of mind, asking why he has become so weak and deluded, losing his clarity of purpose as a warrior. It is a call to move from emotional reactivity to rational duty.

In moments of crisis, instead of being overwhelmed by emotions, one should analyze the situation rationally. Example: Instead of panicking during a difficult project, focus on the next logical step and your primary responsibility.

Krishna rebukes Arjuna for his uncharacteristic grief and lack of discrimination between right and wrong at the start of the battle.