1.38 - Bhagavad Gita - Chapter 1, Verse 38

In this pivotal verse 1.38 of the Bhagavad Gita, we find Arjuna in a profound moral dilemma on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. He addresses Krishna as "Janardana" while expressing his ethical concerns about the impending war. Arjuna makes a critical distinction between himself and the opposing forces led by Duryodhana, highlighting a fundamental difference in moral awareness.

Arjuna observes that the Kauravas, with their "hearts overtaken by greed" (lobhopahata-cetasaḥ), cannot perceive the sinfulness of killing family members or quarreling with friends. Their judgment is clouded by desire for power and kingdom, rendering them unable to see the devastating consequences of their actions. In contrast, Arjuna, who possesses clear moral vision, can recognize the dire implications of family destruction.

What makes this verse particularly significant is Arjuna's use of the plural "asmābhiḥ" (by us) rather than speaking only for himself. He deliberately includes Krishna in his moral reasoning, essentially saying: "Since we can clearly see the wrongness of these actions, why should we proceed?" This linguistic choice reveals Arjuna's attempt to place responsibility on both himself and Krishna, subtly appealing to Krishna's divine wisdom to validate his reluctance to fight.

The verse represents a sophisticated ethical argument from Arjuna. He doesn't merely refuse to fight out of attachment or fear, but presents a moral reasoning: "If I can see the wrongness of this action while they cannot, doesn't that place a greater responsibility on me to act righteously?" Arjuna refuses to lower his ethical standards simply because others have compromised theirs. He's questioning whether one's dharma (duty) should be followed when the consequences appear to be destructive.

Arjuna's position reflects a common human dilemma: When faced with challenging situations where others have abandoned ethical considerations, should we maintain our moral standards or adjust to match their behavior? Arjuna firmly asserts that having moral clarity creates a greater obligation to act righteously, not less. He resists the idea that his dharma as a kshatriya (warrior) requires him to participate in what he perceives as adharma (unrighteousness).

This verse shows Arjuna's sophisticated understanding that ethics aren't simply relative or situational. While the Kauravas might justify their actions through their desire for kingdom and power, Arjuna refuses to use their moral blindness as an excuse to compromise his own values. He recognizes that true dharma must align with broader ethical principles that preserve social harmony and family integrity.

The internal struggle Arjuna experiences in this verse mirrors the challenges we all face when our understanding of what is right conflicts with what seems expedient or what others expect of us. His refusal to be guided by others' compromised standards, even when those others include powerful figures, demonstrates remarkable moral courage. This verse sets the stage for Krishna's subsequent teachings about the nature of true dharma and how it relates to one's svadharma (personal duty) – teachings that will challenge and transform Arjuna's understanding in profound ways.