Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 1.23

Shloka 1.23

“Let me see those who have come to fight, desiring to please the evil-minded Duryodhana.”

Key Teaching: Arjuna identifies the Kauravas’ motives, showing moral awareness.

Theme: Conflict, Dharma.

500-Word Description:
Arjuna further specifies his request, asking to see the warriors fighting to please Duryodhana, whom he calls “evil-minded.” This verse reveals Arjuna’s initial moral judgment of the Kauravas, reflecting his awareness of their unjust motives, while still preparing for battle as a warrior. The themes of conflict, as the war approaches, and dharma, as Arjuna grapples with the righteousness of fighting, are prominent, foreshadowing his deeper crisis (1.28–46).

In the Mahabharata, Duryodhana’s greed and refusal to share the kingdom with the Pandavas sparked the war, justifying Arjuna’s label of “evil-minded.” His request to view these warriors aligns with his Kshatriya duty to assess the enemy, but his moral tone hints at unease, contrasting with Duryodhana’s tactical focus (1.3–11). Krishna’s silent compliance as charioteer sets the stage for divine guidance.

Philosophically, this verse captures the human tendency to judge opponents morally while preparing for conflict, a mindset Krishna later refines with teachings on equanimity (2.14). Arjuna’s recognition of Duryodhana’s motives reflects his sense of dharma, but his crisis will reveal the complexity of acting righteously. The theme of dharma emerges, as Arjuna begins questioning the war’s morality.

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objectivity, framing Arjuna’s words within the war’s context. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s ethical challenges, where moral judgments must be balanced with wisdom. Arjuna’s request prepares him to face the personal stakes of fighting kin, leading to Krishna’s teachings.