Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 1.40

Shloka 1.40

“When family dharma is destroyed, the eternal family traditions perish, leading to lawlessness.”

Key Teaching: Arjuna fears the societal collapse from destroying family dharma.

Theme: Vishada, Dharma, Society.

500-Word Description:
Arjuna argues that destroying family dharma through war causes eternal family traditions to perish, leading to lawlessness in society. This verse expands his ethical objections (1.36–39), emphasizing the broader societal consequences of killing kin, beyond personal loss. The themes of vishada, as despair drives his concerns, dharma, as he prioritizes family and social duty, and society, as he fears cultural collapse, are central.

In the Mahabharata, family dharma includes traditions like marriage and ancestral rites, which Arjuna fears will collapse if kin like Bhishma and Drona are killed (1.26–27). His concern contrasts with Duryodhana’s focus on power (1.3–11), highlighting Arjuna’s sensitivity to societal stability. Krishna’s presence foreshadows guidance to address this crisis (2.2–3).

Philosophically, this verse reflects the human fear of actions disrupting social order, a theme Krishna addresses with teachings on selfless duty (2.47). Arjuna’s concern for family traditions complicates his warrior dharma, intensifying his despair. The theme of society underscores the war’s broader impact on cultural values.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Arjuna’s concern objectively, emphasizing its societal weight. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s challenges, where actions impact community stability. Arjuna’s fear of lawlessness prepares readers for Krishna’s teachings on upholding dharma with wisdom and detachment.