Bhagavad Gita Chapter 2, Verse 10

English Translation

O descendant of Bharata, to him who was sorrowing between the two armies, Hrsikesa, mocking as it were, said these words:

Detailed Commentary

2.10. Elucidation: "To him, Hrishikesha spoke... these words to the despondent one." Arjuna, with great valor and enthusiasm, had asked the Lord to place his chariot between the two armies to survey the warriors. Now, that very Arjuna was plunged into despondency! In reality, he should have stood ready for battle according to his purpose. But he became entangled in anxiety and sorrow. Therefore, the Lord now begins to instruct the sorrow-stricken Arjuna, in the very midst of the battlefield. 'Prahasanniva' means that the Lord smiled upon seeing Arjuna's change of heart. Observing his initial resolve for battle now replaced by despondency, the Lord spoke with a smile. Arjuna had previously said, "I am your devotee, instruct me on what I should do." But here, without uttering a word, he had decided, "I will not fight." Seeing this, the Lord smiled. When one has surrendered, the right to deliberate no longer remains; one must perform the action instructed by the one to whom refuge has been sought. The Lord disregarded Arjuna's unspoken 'I will not fight' and began His instruction. By the vow of surrender, the Lord accepts. The Lord's heart is filled with compassion. 'Hrishikesha' means that the Lord knows the inner sentiments of liberation. The Lord knew Arjuna's inner feelings, that he spoke thus in an emotional surge. But when he would understand, he would fight. In 'idam vacha uvacha' (He spoke these words), 'uvacha' (spoke) would have been sufficient; but here 'vacha' (words) is used to indicate the special form of the Lord's profound wisdom. Context: To free the grief-stricken Arjuna from sorrow, the Lord further imparts His instruction.