Geethartha Chinthane-99: Arjuna seemed like a wise man

Team Udayavani, Nov 20, 2024, 9:03 AM IST

“Ashochyan anvasochastvam prajnavadamscha bhasase” (2-11) – Lord Krishna begins his discourse by saying that sorrow is not to be expressed unnecessarily. He does not deny the need to grieve but stresses that one should grieve only for genuine reasons, especially where others’ suffering is concerned.

Why does Krishna use the plural prajnavadamscha instead of the singular prajnavadam? It is because Arjuna’s arguments are inconsistent and lack coherence. His statements are filled with contradictions, disconnected from one another. While the term prajna refers to a wise person, Arjuna only seems like one; in reality, he is not. Krishna highlights that Arjuna speaks eloquently but lacks true insight.

Krishna points out that Arjuna’s arguments are like speeches (bhasase)—designed to sound impactful but lacking depth. Speeches can influence others but may not hold real strength or truth. Similarly, prajnavada can also imply speaking impulsively or saying whatever comes to mind.

A major human flaw is believing that whatever they perceive is the ultimate truth. Thinking “whatever comes to my mind is correct” prevents one from seeing reality. It is natural to be deluded, but overcoming that delusion is necessary for growth. Lord Krishna urges Arjuna to recognize his misconceptions and rise above them to see the greater truth.

~ Sri Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji of Paryaya Sri Puthige Sri Krishna Matha

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