“Deluded by duality from birth, O Arjuna, all beings are bewildered by desire and aversion.”
Key Teaching: Duality of desire and aversion deludes beings from birth.
Theme: Guidance, Dharma, Jnana Vijnana Yoga.
Description:
Krishna teaches that all beings, deluded by the duality of desire and aversion from birth, are bewildered. This verse, continuing 7.26, addresses Arjuna’s emotional turmoil (2.9). The themes of guidance, as Krishna instructs, dharma, as he clarifies delusion’s cause, and Jnana Vijnana Yoga, as he emphasizes overcoming duality, are central.
In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s desire and aversion (1.28–46) cloud his duty. Krishna’s teaching contrasts with Duryodhana’s dualistic actions (1.3–11), urging Arjuna to transcend duality for his Kshatriya duty, aligning with Karma Yoga (2.47, 7.14). Duality fosters bewilderment.
Philosophically, this verse addresses the human bondage to duality, a theme Krishna refines with teachings on delusion (7.14–15). Arjuna’s reluctance complicates his dharma, necessitating Krishna’s guidance to overcome desire and aversion. The theme of Jnana Vijnana Yoga underscores the Gita’s focus on nondual knowledge.
Sanjaya’s narration frames Krishna’s teaching objectively, emphasizing its clarifying clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s dualities, where transcendence frees the mind. Krishna’s teaching prepares readers for performing duty with nondual awareness, aligning with liberation.