Arjun’s Wise Choice That Led Us to The Gita

 Arjun’s Wise Choice That Led Us to The Gita

When all negotiation efforts had failed and war became certain, both the Kaurav and Pandav cousins decided to approach Krishn for assistance. Duryodhan, representing the Kaurav side, arrived first; Krishn was asleep and so Duryodhan took a seat near the Lord’s head. Arjun followed and placed himself at Krishna's feet. When Krishna woke up, his eyes settled first on Arjun. Duryodhan, however, insisted on the first-come, first-served basis, and therefore, believed his claim on Krishn’s help to supersede Arjun’s.

The wise Krishn recognized both claims. Duryodhan had arrived first, but Arjun had been seen first. Both would receive his help. And stating this, he offered them a choice: One side could have Krishn’s vast army – all hardy, skilled, and armed Yadav warriors. The other side could have Krishna. But Krishna would not fight, and he would be alone and unarmed.

Between Narayan and the Narayani Sena, which would the cousins choose? Krishna offered Arjun the first choice as the ancient code was clear: The youngest should be given the opportunity to opt first.

Without hesitation, Arjun chose Krishn. Duryodhan was filled with glee, certain that the already strong Kaurav army would now be invincible with its expanded numbers and weaponry. But Arjun was just as certain that he had made the right choice. And as it would turn out in the great war, having Krishn on their side was crucial to the Pandav victory. Even as an unarmed ally, Krishn’s role was decisive at several turning points in the war, via his masterful strategic advice and occasionally also via his divine intervention.

The story offers several important lessons.

Firstly, although Krishn equalized the claims of Duryodhan and Arjun, the son of Pandu placing himself at the Lord’s feet was indicative of his humility, while Duryodhan’s assumption of a position by the Lord’s head suggested hubris.

Secondly, Duryodhan was seduced by the promise of victory, of which he felt assured now that he had Krishn’s army and weapons working on his side. In contrast, Arjun chose the path of Dharma and glory, knowing that Krishna embodied these values. The Kaurav king had opted for a path that he believed would fulfill his interests. But the more rewarding choice was the one made by Arjun, not only because it reflected his values, but also because a strong basis in values helped the Pandav side achieve material victory too.

Thirdly, there was also a high level of intelligence reflected in Arjun’s choice. While he did not underestimate the importance of having powerful military forces, he probably knew that strategic thinking and cunning would be indispensable for defeating the formidable Kaurav side. And on war strategy, he knew Krishn was unrivaled.

Lastly, having a trusted friend and guide by one’s side in times of mental distress can be more effective than owning all the riches and forces of the world. When Arjun was consumed with self-doubt on the battlefield, Krishn – and Krishn alone – could have, and indeed did, persuade him back to do his duty. That act of persuasion took the shape of the Bhagwad Gita. And we are all richer today, thanks to Arjun’s choice.