Bhagavad Gita Chapter 2, Verse 3

English Translation

Do not yield to unmanliness, O Partha. It does not befit you. Shake off this petty weakness of heart and arise, O scorcher of foes!

Detailed Commentary

2.3. Commentary: By addressing Arjuna as 'Partha', reminding him of his mother Kunti, Bhagavan awakens his valor. The implication is that one should not disobey the mother's lineage by succumbing to cowardice. 'Klaibyam Ma Sma Gamah' – Arjuna was considering not fighting as Dharma. Bhagavan states that this is not *adharma*, but rather impotence. Therefore, abandon this impotence. 'Naitat Tvayyupapadyate' – For a warrior like you, the son of Kunti, this effeminacy is entirely improper. 'Parantapa' – You are 'Parantapa', the vanquisher of foes. Will you then please your enemies by turning away from battle? 'Kshudram Hridayadaurbalyam Tyaktvottishtha' – This weakness of heart brings pettiness. Abandon it, stand up, and fight. This weakness of heart does not make you righteous, but rather weak. Bhagavan commands, 'Arise and fight!' He knows that Arjuna's *dharma* is to fight. Therefore, disregarding Arjuna's hollow arguments, He urges him to prepare fully for battle. Connection: In the first chapter, Arjuna had presented many arguments for not fighting. Bhagavan, disrespecting these arguments, rebuked Arjuna and commanded him to fight. At this, Arjuna became agitated.