यदि मामप्रतीकारमशस्त्रं शस्त्रपाणयः।
श्रीमद्भगवद्गीता 1.46
धार्तराष्ट्रा रणे हन्युस्तन्मे क्षेमतरं भवेत्।।
Yadi Mam Apratikaram Ashastram Shastra-Panayah
Shrimad Bhagavad Gita 1.46
Dhartarashtra Rane Hanyus Tanme Kshemataram Bhavet
If, on the contrary, the sons of Dhritarashtra, with weapons in their hand, should slay me, unarmed and unresisting, surely that would be better for my welfare!
English Translation of BG 1.46
In this heart-wrenching verse, Arjuna, overwhelmed by the imminent prospect of fighting his own kin, expresses a preference for death over causing their demise. He contemplates a scenario where being killed by the Kauravas, without resistance and unarmed, appears as a more peaceful resolution than the turmoil of war. This sentiment underscores the depth of Arjuna’s moral and emotional turmoil at the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
Insights into BG 1.46: Reflecting on Swami Ramsukhdas Ji’s Divine Commentary
The Supreme Value of Peace
Swami Ramsukhdas Ji, through this verse, illuminates the profound value Arjuna places on peace over victory. Arjuna’s words are a poignant reminder that the true essence of life is harmony and non-violence. In a world often driven by ambitions and rivalries, this verse stands as a testament to the courage it takes to prioritize peace, even at the cost of one’s own life.
The Dilemma of Righteousness
Arjuna’s dilemma brings to light the intricate dance of dharma (duty/righteousness) that governs human action. Swami Ramsukhdas Ji points out that dharma is not black and white; it encompasses the challenging decisions one must make, often pitting one’s personal ethics against the broader responsibilities towards society. Arjuna’s predicament teaches us the importance of introspection in understanding our duties and the paths they compel us to tread.
The Illusion of Attachment
The verse also delves into the concept of attachment and its powerful grip on the human heart. Arjuna’s reluctance to engage in battle is rooted in his deep attachment to his relatives, clouding his judgment. Swami Ramsukhdas Ji elucidates that such attachments, while natural, often lead us away from performing our true duties. The path to liberation, as taught in the Gita, involves recognizing these attachments and transcending them to act in accordance with higher principles.
The Path of Non-violence
Arjuna’s expression of non-resistance, even in the face of death, echoes the principle of ahimsa (non-violence), a cornerstone of spiritual philosophy. Swami Ramsukhdas Ji emphasizes that ahimsa goes beyond physical non-violence; it is a state of being that respects all life forms. Arjuna’s words challenge us to consider the impact of our actions on others and to seek resolutions that uphold the sanctity of life.
Conclusion
Verse 1.46 of the Bhagavad Gita, through Swami Ramsukhdas Ji’s interpretation, serves as a profound reflection on the conflicts that assail the human spirit in its quest for righteousness. Arjuna’s moral conflict is not just a personal crisis but a universal dilemma about duty, ethics, and the pursuit of peace. This verse invites us to contemplate the deeper values that guide our actions and to strive for a world where peace and righteousness prevail over conflict and ambition. As we navigate the battles of our own lives, let us remember the lessons of compassion, duty, and non-violence that Arjuna’s journey imparts.
