
1
CHAPTER
VERSE
31
निमित्तानि च पश्यामि विपरीतानि केशव।
न च श्रेयोऽनुपश्यामि हत्वा स्वजनमाहवे || 1.31 ||
Nimittāni cha paśhyāmi viparītāni keśhava
Na cha śhreyo ’nupaśhyāmi hatvā sva-janam āhave ||
"I behold adverse omens, O Krishna. Nor do I foresee any good from killing my own kinsmen in battle."
Lesson:
this verse, Arjuna expresses his distress and confusion to Lord Krishna, who is addressed as "Keshava." Arjuna, as he surveys the battlefield, notices signs that are contrary to what he perceives as favourable outcomes. These signs, known as "nimittas," are interpreted by Arjuna as ominous or unfavorable, signalling potential calamities or misfortunes.
Arjuna's concern is deeply rooted in his affection for his own relatives and loved ones who are arrayed on both sides of the battlefield. He is torn between his duty as a warrior and his emotional attachment to his family members, teachers, and friends who stand opposing him in the battle.
Arjuna expresses his reluctance to engage in combat because he cannot see any ultimate good arising from the act of killing his own kin. He questions the morality and righteousness of fighting against those he loves, even if it is in the context of fulfilling his duty as a warrior.
This verse highlights Arjuna's inner conflict and moral dilemma, setting the stage for the subsequent discourse between Arjuna and Krishna, where Krishna imparts profound wisdom and guidance to help Arjuna navigate through his doubts and dilemmas. The teachings of the Bhagavad Gita that follow address the principles of duty, righteousness, and the path to spiritual liberation, offering insights that are relevant and applicable to all aspects of life.