Arjuna, addressed as Kaunteya (son of Kunti) by Sanjaya, sees his relatives, including fathers-in-law, grandfathers, teachers, maternal uncles, brothers, sons, grandsons, and friends, on both sides of the battlefield. The mention of these familial relations highlights the emotional turmoil Arjuna experiences as he surveys the opposing army.

Arjuna's distress deepens as he realizes that his loved ones are arrayed against him in battle. These relationships represent his duty-bound attachments and responsibilities, making it difficult for him to contemplate fighting against them. The presence of family members and dear ones on both sides accentuates the moral dilemma faced by Arjuna, torn between his duty as a warrior and his affection for his kin.

This verse serves as a pivotal moment in the Bhagavad Gita, setting the stage for Arjuna's moral crisis and the subsequent teachings of Lord Krishna. Arjuna's dilemma represents the universal struggle between duty and personal emotions, prompting Krishna to impart profound wisdom on righteousness, detachment, and the true nature of the self. The verse underscores the complexity of human relationships and the challenges inherent in fulfilling one's obligations, especially when they conflict with personal sentiments. It lays the groundwork for the dialogue between Arjuna and Krishna, wherein Arjuna seeks guidance to navigate the moral quandary he faces on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.