Bhagavad Gita Verse 2.6

 

Bhagavad Gita Verse 2.6: A Dilemma of Duty and Consequence

Verse 2.6 (Sanskrit & Translation)

न चैतद्विद्म: कतरन्नो गरीयो यद्वा जयेम यदि वा नो जयेयु:।
यानेव हत्वा न जिजीविषामस्तेऽवस्थिताः प्रमुखे धार्तराष्ट्राः॥

Translation:

"We do not know which is better—whether we should conquer them or they should conquer us. Those sons of Dhritarashtra, whom we would not wish to kill even if we were to gain the kingdom, stand before us in battle."

"हम नहीं जानते कि कौन बेहतर है - हमें उन पर विजय प्राप्त करनी चाहिए या उन्हें हमें जीतना चाहिए। धृतराष्ट्र के वे पुत्र, जिन्हें हम राज्य प्राप्त करने पर भी मारना नहीं चाहेंगे, वे हमारे सामने युद्ध में खड़े हैं।"

Context and Explanation

This verse is part of Arjuna’s lament as he expresses his deep confusion and sorrow about fighting in the Kurukshetra war. Standing on the battlefield, he is overwhelmed by emotions and doubts about the righteousness of the war.

Arjuna sees his own family, teachers, and loved ones on the opposing side, making him question whether victory or defeat is preferable. He fears that winning might come at the cost of killing those he loves, and he feels uncertain about the moral consequences of his actions. This verse highlights his internal conflict and sets the stage for Lord Krishna’s teachings on duty (Dharma) and detachment (Vairagya).

Philosophical Significance

1. Ethical Dilemma: Arjuna’s doubt reflects a universal moral struggle—when duty and emotions clash, making it difficult to choose the right path.
2. Illusion of Choice: The verse suggests that sometimes in life, both outcomes may seem undesirable, but inaction is not always an option.
3. Call for Clarity: Arjuna's confusion symbolizes the human tendency to be clouded by emotions and attachments, making rational decision-making difficult.

Krishna’s Impending Response

Krishna, in the following verses, begins to guide Arjuna towards understanding his duty as a Kshatriya (warrior) and introduces the concept of Nishkama Karma (selfless action), emphasizing that one should act without attachment to the results.

Relevance in Modern Life

• Decision Making: Like Arjuna, we often face difficult choices where both options have consequences. This verse reminds us to seek clarity and act with wisdom.
• Emotional Attachment: Sometimes, personal emotions cloud our sense of duty, making it essential to cultivate detachment while making important decisions.
• Fear of Uncertainty: The hesitation Arjuna expresses is common in life’s critical moments. The Gita teaches us that taking action with the right mindset is more important than the outcome itself.

Conclusion

Verse 2.6 of the Bhagavad Gita captures the depth of human hesitation and the struggle between duty and emotion. It sets the foundation for Krishna’s spiritual wisdom, teaching us to rise above our dilemmas and act with purpose and clarity.