Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 1.38

Shloka 1.38

“Though they, blinded by greed, see no fault in destroying family or enmity with friends, why should we, O Krishna?”

Key Teaching: Arjuna reiterates the Kauravas’ moral failing, refusing to emulate them.

Theme: Vishada, Dharma, Ethics.

500-Word Description:
Arjuna reiterates that the Kauravas, blinded by greed, see no fault in destroying family or fostering enmity with friends, but questions why he should follow suit. This verse builds on his ethical objections (1.36–37), emphasizing his moral clarity and reluctance to violate dharma by harming kin. The themes of vishada, as despair drives his doubts, dharma, as he questions righteous action, and ethics, as he prioritizes moral responsibility, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Duryodhana’s greed contrasts with Arjuna’s compassion for kin like Bhishma, Drona, and friends (1.26–27). His question underscores his refusal to adopt the Kauravas’ immoral stance, highlighting his ethical sensitivity, unlike Duryodhana’s focus on power (1.3–11). Krishna’s presence foreshadows guidance to address this dilemma (2.2–3).

Philosophically, this verse reflects the human struggle to uphold moral values in conflict, a theme Krishna addresses with teachings on detachment (2.47). Arjuna’s distinction between his ethics and the Kauravas’ greed complicates his Kshatriya dharma, intensifying his despair. The theme of ethics emphasizes his focus on moral consequences.

Sanjaya’s narration captures Arjuna’s stance objectively, framing it within the war’s context. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s moral challenges, where maintaining integrity is paramount. Arjuna’s refusal to emulate the Kauravas prepares readers for Krishna’s teachings on righteous action without attachment.