Bhagavad Gita Verse 1.30

 

Bhagavad Gita Verse 1.30: Arjuna’s Inner Turmoil

Introduction

The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu scripture, presents a profound dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. In Chapter 1, known as the Arjuna Vishada Yoga (The Yoga of Arjuna’s Dejection), Arjuna experiences intense emotional turmoil as he contemplates the battle against his own kin. Verse 1.30 vividly expresses his deep distress and hesitation.

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Sanskrit Verse & Translation

Sanskrit:

वेपथुश्च शरीरे मे रोमहर्षश्च जायते।
गाण्डीवं स्रंसते हस्तात्त्वक्चैव परिदह्यते।। 1.30।।

Translation:

"My whole body is trembling, my hair is standing on end, my bow Gandiva is slipping from my hand, and my skin is burning all over."

"मेरा पूरा शरीर कांप रहा है, मेरे रोंगटे खड़े हो गए हैं, मेरा गांडीव धनुष मेरे हाथ से फिसल रहा है, और मेरी त्वचा पूरी तरह जल रही है।"

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Meaning & Explanation

In this verse, Arjuna expresses his overwhelming physical and emotional distress as he stands on the battlefield, witnessing his own relatives, teachers, and friends on the opposing side. His mental turmoil manifests in physical symptoms:

1. Trembling Body (वेपथुश्च शरीरे मे) – Arjuna's body shakes due to fear, anxiety, and deep sorrow. This symbolizes his inner conflict and hesitation to engage in battle.
2. Hair Standing on End (रोमहर्षश्च जायते) – A sign of extreme emotional distress, shock, and spiritual crisis.
3. Bow Slipping from Hands (गाण्डीवं स्रंसते हस्तात्) – Gandiva, the celestial bow given to Arjuna by the gods, slipping from his grasp symbolizes his loss of will and strength. He, the greatest warrior, now feels powerless.
4. Burning Sensation in the Skin (त्वक्चैव परिदह्यते) – This represents Arjuna’s intense psychological distress, a conflict between duty (Dharma) and emotions (Moha).

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Psychological and Spiritual Significance

This verse highlights a crucial moment in Arjuna’s life where he is paralyzed by emotions. It reflects:

• Human Dilemma – Often in life, we face situations where our moral obligations conflict with our emotions. Arjuna’s hesitation mirrors the challenges of making tough decisions.
• Impact of Attachment – Arjuna’s attachment to family blinds him from his duty as a warrior. Lord Krishna later teaches that attachment leads to suffering and clouds judgment.
• Call for Divine Guidance – Arjuna’s helplessness sets the stage for Krishna’s wisdom. Similarly, when overwhelmed, seeking higher knowledge or guidance helps in making righteous decisions.

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Relevance in Modern Life

This verse is relatable even today. Many of us experience stress, anxiety, and hesitation when faced with difficult choices. Arjuna's emotions teach us that:

• Fear and confusion are natural but should not dictate our actions.
• Seeking wisdom and clarity (as Arjuna did from Krishna) helps overcome self-doubt.
• Fulfilling one’s duty with detachment leads to inner peace.

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Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 1.30 is a powerful expression of Arjuna’s crisis, both physical and emotional. It serves as a reminder that confusion and fear can cloud judgment, but with guidance, wisdom, and courage, we can overcome self-doubt and fulfill our duties with clarity and strength. Arjuna’s journey from despair to enlightenment is a lesson for all seekers on the path of righteousness.

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