Bhagavad Gita Chapter 2, Verse 4

English Translation

Arjuna said O Madhusudana, O destroyer of enemies, how can I fight with arrows in battle against Bhisma and Drona who are worthy of adoration?

Detailed Commentary

।।2.4।। Explanation – The appellations 'Madusūdana' and 'Arisūdana' imply that You are the slayer of demons and foes, such as the Daityas Madhu and Kaiṭabha, who tormented the world. You have vanquished such enemies who harbored causeless malice and wrought destruction. But before me stand Pitamaha Bhishma and Acharya Drona, who are supremely excellent in conduct and bear immense affection for me. How can I slay such grandfathers and spiritual preceptors, my ultimate well-wishers? I am turning away from battle, seeing Dharma, yet You say this is cowardice. Please consider how I can wage war with arrows against Pitamaha Bhishma and Acharya Drona. This is not my cowardice. I fear slaying, not dying. In the world, two main types of relationships exist: those of birth and those of knowledge. By birth, Pitamaha Bhishma is revered by us; since childhood, I have played in his lap. By virtue of knowledge, Acharya Drona is revered by us; he is my Vidyaguru. He held such affection for me that he taught many special techniques exclusively to me. He also bestowed a boon upon me, stating that no one would surpass me in the art of Astra-Shastra. How can I slay such venerable individuals? As elders in relationship, both Pitamaha Bhishma and Acharya Drona are venerable and worthy of reverence. They hold complete authority over me. Therefore, even though they are adversaries, it would be a grave sin for me to fight them, as both are deserving of service. How can I strike such revered persons with arrows?