Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 2.35

Shloka 2.35

“The great warriors will think you fled from battle out of fear, and those who esteemed you will despise you.”
Key Teaching: Fear of dishonor from fleeing battle urges Arjuna to fight.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Duty.
Description:
Krishna warns that great warriors will believe Arjuna fled the battle out of fear, leading those who once esteemed him to despise him. This verse builds on 2.33–34, emphasizing the social consequences of abandoning his Kshatriya duty, addressing his refusal to fight (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he stresses warrior duty, and duty, as he highlights honor, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s reputation as a heroic Kshatriya (e.g., “conqueror of enemies,” 2.9) contrasts with his hesitation (1.28–46). Krishna’s warning contrasts with Duryodhana’s ambition (1.3–11), noting that fleeing would tarnish Arjuna’s honor among warriors like Bhishma and Drona (1.26–27). This urges him to uphold his dharma to maintain respect.

Philosophically, this verse addresses the human fear of social judgment, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on selfless action (2.47). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to prioritize duty over fear of dishonor. The theme of duty underscores the Gita’s emphasis on righteous action.

Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s warning objectively, emphasizing its social weight. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s challenges, where fear of criticism must not deter duty. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with courage, upholding honor through action, aligning with the *Gita*’s focus on dharma.