Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 2.4

Shloka 2.4

“Arjuna said: How can I fight Bhishma and Drona with arrows, O Krishna, when they are worthy of worship?”

Key Teaching: Arjuna questions fighting revered elders, deepening his moral dilemma.

Theme: Vishada, Dharma, Ethics.

Description:
Arjuna responds to Krishna’s urging (2.2–3), questioning how he can fight Bhishma and Drona, whom he considers worthy of worship, with arrows. This verse reiterates his moral dilemma (1.28–46), emphasizing his reverence for his elders over his warrior duty. The themes of vishada, as despair persists, dharma, as he questions fighting revered kin, and ethics, as he prioritizes respect, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Bhishma, the grandsire, and Drona, Arjuna’s teacher, are revered figures, making Arjuna’s reluctance to fight them a profound ethical conflict. His question contrasts with Krishna’s call for courage (2.2–3), highlighting his compassion and respect, unlike Duryodhana’s ambition (1.3–11). This sets up Krishna’s further guidance (2.11).

Philosophically, this verse reflects the human struggle to act against revered figures, a theme Krishna addresses with teachings on selfless duty (2.47). Arjuna’s reverence complicates his Kshatriya dharma, deepening his despair. The theme of ethics underscores his moral objections to fighting elders.

Sanjaya’s narration captures Arjuna’s question objectively, framing it within the war’s context. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s ethical dilemmas, where respect conflicts with duty. Arjuna’s objection prepares readers for Krishna’s teachings on navigating duty with wisdom and detachment.