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1

CHAPTER 

VERSE

38

यद्यप्येते न पश्यन्ति लोभोपहतचेतस: |
कुलक्षयकृतं दोषं मित्रद्रोहे च पातकम् || 1.38 ||
कथं न ज्ञेयमस्माभि: पापादस्मान्निवर्तितुम् |
कुलक्षयकृतं दोषं प्रपश्यद्भिर्जनार्दन || 1.39 ||

yadyapyete na paśyanti lobhopahatacetasaḥ
kulakṣayakṛtam doṣam mitrādrohe ca pātakam
kathaṁ na jñeyam asmābhiḥ pāpād asmān nivartitum
kulakṣayakṛtam doṣam prapaśyadbhir janārdana ||

"Although they, with intelligence overpowered by greed, see no evil in the destruction of families, and no sin in hostility to friends,"

"Why should we, who can see the crime in the destruction of a family, not turn away from this sin, O Janardana?"

Lesson:

In these verses, Arjuna expresses deep concern about the moral degradation evident in society. He observes that despite the impending calamity and the evident ethical breaches, some individuals remain oblivious to the gravity of their actions. The term "lobhopahatacetasaḥ" refers to those whose intellect is clouded by greed, preventing them from recognizing the immorality of their deeds.

Arjuna highlights two significant transgressions: the destruction of families (kulakṣaya) and betrayal of friends (mitrādrohe). These actions, driven by greed and hostility, are portrayed as serious sins (pātakam). Despite the severity of these offenses, Arjuna laments the lack of awareness among those committing them, emphasizing the blindness caused by greed-induced ignorance.

Arjuna's bewilderment reflects his deep-rooted sense of morality and ethical responsibility. He questions how individuals can fail to discern the evil inherent in actions that lead to the ruin of families and the betrayal of friendships. This introspection underscores Arjuna's moral integrity and his commitment to righteousness.

Furthermore, Arjuna seeks guidance from Lord Krishna, addressing him as "Janardana," implying that he is the remover of ignorance and the upholder of righteousness. Arjuna's plea reflects his desire for clarity and moral guidance in the face of moral ambiguity and societal decay. Overall, these verses highlight the ethical dilemmas faced by individuals when confronted with moral decay and societal upheaval. Arjuna's introspection invites readers to reflect on the enduring importance of moral values and the consequences of actions driven by greed and hostility.

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