Arjuna-- the chosen one

 

Reflections on Week 4 chapter 2 (shlokas 43-47 from chapter 1 and 1- 9 from chapter 2)

Arjuna, just before the epic war begins, goes into a state of turmoil. Attachments, compassions towards his kith and kins, and his sense of righteousness are challenged. He could clearly see the outcome of the war and like any sensible human being he was disturbed by the decision taken by the two armies as the mass murder will only destroy the families and society as a whole and the devastation caused is going to be irreplaceable. He also argues that by doing something wrong like killing your brothers and elders is only going to destroy the sense of righteousness among the clan and will eventually lead the whole linage into immorality.

Arjuna’s arguments in a way reflect the conflicts that go on in the heart and head of modern humans as we get into a family system and see the rules and regulations laid for the benefit and righteous functionality of the society sometimes are manipulated to satisfy individual egos and may lead to adharma (unrighteousness) or the suffering of individuals rather than evolving them or preserving the sense of righteousness in the society. Many times, an individual cannot confront their elders and other family members (even if he knows they are doing something that is not right) for the sake of preserving the relations as the confrontation may lead to hurting their egos. As such the whole thing becomes a prapanch (drama) of keeping the egos satisfied in order to fulfill one’s own needs and getting their certain work done.

Krishna begins with reminding Arjuna of his reputation and glory that he has built as a warrior, and also how his giving up on war will only defame him. Arjuna’s grief however supersedes his attachment with his social reputation as a warrior (lok moh)- as determined as he is to take a stand for what he feels is right. The sense of righteousness being governed by his compassion and attachment he feels for his family and clansmen.

In a way I also feel that Arjuna was brave when he stood for his sense of righteousness (even if it is distorted by the worldly perceptions). But to take a stand at a moment when it is impossible to step back from the decision taken—one last time trying best in one’s own capabilities to prevent destruction –even if it means sacrificing one’s own identity/glory… a one-of-a-kind braveness—like sacrificing oneself to protect the whole—something that makes an ordinary human being, a seeker—a seeker of the highest order. No doubt why he was chosen by the cosmos to receive a knowledge that is going to nourish the spiritual roots of this land for ages—a dialogue that is going to be celebrated among the seekers for thousands of years to come.

-seeker