Bhagavad Gita1.20

 

Bhagavad Gita: Verse 1.20 – Arjuna’s Anxiety on the Battlefield

Introduction

The Bhagavad Gita, one of the most revered scriptures in Hindu philosophy, is a conversation 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 a deep emotional and moral crisis before the war begins. Verse 1.20 marks a crucial turning point as Arjuna prepares himself for battle but simultaneously begins to feel inner turmoil.

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Sanskrit Verse (Bhagavad Gita 1.20)

अथ व्यवस्थितान्दृष्ट्वा धार्तराष्ट्रान् कपिध्वजः |
प्रवृत्ते शस्त्रसम्पाते धनुरुद्यम्य पाण्डवः ||
हृषीकेशं तदा वाक्यमिदमाह महीपते ||

Transliteration:

atha vyavasthitān dṛṣṭvā dhārtarāṣṭrān kapidhvajaḥ
pravṛtte śastrasampāte dhanurudyamya pāṇḍavaḥ
hṛṣīkeśaṁ tadā vākyam idam āha mahīpate

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Translation

"O King (Dhritarashtra), at that time, seeing the sons of Dhritarashtra in battle formation, Arjuna, who had Hanuman on his flag, lifted his bow and prepared to fight. But as the war was about to begin, he spoke these words to Hrishikesha (Krishna)."

"हे राजन (धृतराष्ट्र), उस समय धृतराष्ट्र के पुत्रों को युद्ध की व्यूह रचना में देखकर, हनुमान को ध्वजा पर धारण किये हुए अर्जुन ने अपना धनुष उठाया और युद्ध के लिए तैयार हो गये। किन्तु जब युद्ध आरम्भ होने वाला था, तब उन्होंने ये शब्द हृषीकेश (कृष्ण) से कहे।"

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Meaning and Significance

1. Symbolism of Arjuna’s Flag

Arjuna is referred to as Kapidhvaja, meaning "one who has Hanuman on his flag." This is a significant symbol of strength, devotion, and divine protection. Hanuman, known for his immense power and devotion to Lord Rama, represents unwavering courage and dharma (righteousness). The presence of Hanuman on Arjuna’s chariot signifies divine guidance and the blessings of Lord Vishnu.

2. Arjuna’s Readiness for Battle

The verse describes Arjuna lifting his bow, ready to fight. This symbolizes his initial determination and duty as a warrior (Kshatriya) to uphold righteousness. However, this confidence soon gives way to hesitation, as seen in the following verses.

3. Hrishikesha – The Controller of Senses

Arjuna addresses Krishna as Hrishikesha, which means "the master of the senses." This is an important title because Arjuna is about to experience deep emotional distress, losing control over his own senses. Krishna, as Hrishikesha, plays the role of Arjuna’s guide, leading him from confusion to clarity.

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Philosophical Interpretation

This verse highlights the duality of human nature—on one hand, Arjuna is a warrior ready to fight, and on the other, he is a compassionate individual struggling with his emotions. It sets the stage for the Bhagavad Gita’s core teachings on duty (dharma), righteousness, and self-realization.

In life, we often face dilemmas where our duties conflict with our emotions. Arjuna’s hesitation mirrors the inner struggles we experience when making difficult decisions. The Bhagavad Gita teaches that by surrendering to divine wisdom (Krishna), one can find clarity and act with righteousness.

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Conclusion

Verse 1.20 is a pivotal moment in the Bhagavad Gita, marking the beginning of Arjuna’s inner conflict. Although he starts with the intent to fight, his emotional turmoil soon leads him to question the very nature of war and duty. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that even the strongest individuals can experience doubt, but with divine guidance, one can overcome confusion and act according to dharma.

The Bhagavad Gita, through Krishna’s teachings, ultimately helps Arjuna—and all of us—navigate life’s challenges with wisdom, courage, and devotion.