“Therefore, arise, gain glory, conquer your enemies, and enjoy a prosperous kingdom; they are already slain by Me; be but an instrument, O Arjuna.”
Key Teaching: Krishna urges Arjuna to act as his instrument, as enemies are already slain.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna urges Arjuna to arise, gain glory, conquer enemies, and enjoy a prosperous kingdom, as the enemies are already slain by him, and Arjuna is merely his instrument. This verse, continuing 11.32, addresses Arjuna’s reluctance (2.9, 11.3). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he emphasizes Arjuna’s duty, and Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga, as he frames Arjuna’s role, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s hesitation (1.28–46) contrasts with Duryodhana’s aggression (1.3–11). Krishna’s command supports Arjuna’s Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 11.32), emphasizing divine will.
Philosophically, this verse addresses human agency under divine will, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on duty (2.47). Arjuna’s role as an instrument reflects Krishna’s guidance overcoming reluctance. The theme of Vishwarupa Darshana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on divine agency.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s words objectively, emphasizing their commanding clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s duty, where Krishna ordains outcomes. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty as divine instruments, aligning with liberation.