Bhagavad Gita 2.31

 

Bhagavad Gita 2.31: Duty and Righteousness in Battle

Sanskrit Verse:

स्वधर्ममपि चावेक्ष्य न विकम्पितुमर्हसि।
धर्म्याद्धि युद्धाछ्रेयोऽन्यत्क्षत्रियस्य न विद्यते॥

Transliteration:

Swadharmam api chāvekṣhya na vikampitum arhasi
Dharmyād dhi yuddhāch chhreyo ‘nyat kṣhatriyasya na vidyate

Translation:

"Considering your own duty as a Kshatriya, you should not waver. For a warrior, there is nothing more honorable than a righteous war."

"क्षत्रिय होने के नाते अपने कर्तव्य को समझते हुए तुम्हें विचलित नहीं होना चाहिए। एक योद्धा के लिए धर्मपूर्वक युद्ध से अधिक सम्माननीय कोई चीज़ नहीं है।"

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Understanding Bhagavad Gita 2.31

This verse is a part of Lord Krishna's discourse to Arjuna in the second chapter of the Bhagavad Gita. It comes at a moment when Arjuna is overwhelmed with doubt and sorrow, refusing to fight in the great battle of Kurukshetra. Krishna reminds him of his duty (Swadharma) as a Kshatriya (warrior class) and explains the importance of righteous action.

Key Themes of This Verse

1. Swadharma (One’s Own Duty):

   • Krishna emphasizes that one should perform their prescribed duty without hesitation. For a Kshatriya like Arjuna, engaging in a just war is the highest duty.
   • Each individual in society has a role, and fulfilling that role is essential for maintaining order.

2. The Importance of Righteous War:

   • The battle of Kurukshetra was not an ordinary war; it was a Dharma Yuddha (war for righteousness). Fighting for justice and truth is a noble act, not a sin.
   • Avoiding such a battle due to personal emotions would lead to dishonor and failure in duty.

3. Fearlessness and Duty:

   • Arjuna is advised not to waver or be fearful. A true warrior does not hesitate when duty calls.
   • Hesitation in performing one's duty can lead to spiritual and moral decline.

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Modern Relevance of This Verse

Although the verse specifically addresses Arjuna’s duty as a warrior, its message is universal:

• Professional and Personal Responsibility: Just as a warrior must fight for righteousness, individuals must fulfill their responsibilities with dedication, whether in their career, family, or community.
• Moral Courage: Standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity, is crucial. Avoiding responsibilities due to fear or uncertainty leads to failure in fulfilling one's purpose.
• Detachment from Fear: Fear and hesitation prevent us from taking righteous action. Krishna encourages facing challenges with a sense of duty rather than emotional weakness.

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Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 2.31 teaches the importance of duty, courage, and righteousness. It inspires us to act fearlessly and perform our responsibilities without hesitation. Whether in battle or daily life, embracing one's duty with dedication leads to honor and fulfillment.

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