Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 1.41

Shloka 1.41

“When lawlessness prevails, O Krishna, the women of the family become corrupted; from this, caste confusion arises.”

Key Teaching: Arjuna fears societal decay from the corruption of family women due to war.

Theme: Vishada, Dharma, Society.

500-Word Description:
Arjuna continues his lament, arguing that the destruction of family dharma leads to lawlessness, corrupting women and causing caste confusion (varna-sankara). This verse, building on 1.40, emphasizes the societal consequences of war, as Arjuna fears the breakdown of social order. The themes of vishada, as despair fuels his objections, dharma, as he prioritizes family and social duty, and society, as he envisions cultural collapse, are central. This deepens his moral crisis, rejecting the war’s purpose.

In the Mahabharata context, family dharma includes maintaining social roles, such as women’s chastity, which Arjuna believes war disrupts by killing men, leaving women vulnerable. Caste confusion refers to the mixing of social orders, a serious concern in Vedic society, as it undermines traditional duties. Arjuna’s fear contrasts with Duryodhana’s ambition (1.3–11), highlighting his concern for societal stability over victory. Krishna’s silent presence foreshadows guidance to address this (2.2–3).

Philosophically, this verse reflects the human fear that actions disrupting family structures harm society, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on selfless duty (2.47). Arjuna’s concern for women’s corruption and caste confusion complicates his Kshatriya dharma, as he prioritizes social order over fighting. The theme of society underscores the war’s broader impact, intensifying his despair.

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 and caste confusion prepares readers for Krishna’s teachings on upholding dharma without attachment to outcomes, addressing societal and personal duties.