Geethartha Chinthane – 84: Madhusudana, the Destroyer of “Sweetness”

Team Udayavani, Nov 5, 2024, 10:04 AM IST

“Tam tatha krupayavishtamashrupurnakulekshanam vishidantamidam vakyamuvacha madhusudanaha”
This is the first shloka in the second chapter, spoken by Sanjaya, who calls Krishna “Madhusudana.”

While this name originally refers to Krishna’s slaying of the demon Madhu, here it takes on another significance: Krishna as the one who eliminates “sweetness” or the influence of alluring, deceptive words. It suggests that Krishna is not swayed by flattery or emotionally manipulative talk.

Had someone else spoken like Arjuna, they might have received sympathy, but Krishna does not let Arjuna’s distress sway him. Arjuna is both sorrowful and restless, deeply troubled. The text uses the word krupa (grace), indicating a mix of emotions. On one side, there is attachment, and on the other, compassion. Grace arises in the strong when they encounter the weak, and in the wise when they see others in ignorance. Grace appears when others are in distress. In Arjuna’s case, his belief in his newfound knowledge is also a form of ego, produced by both attachment and compassion.

“Kutastva kashmalamidam vishame samupasthitam anaryajushtamasvargyam akirtikaramarjuna”
These words are Krishna’s first response in the Gita. His choice of words highlights the entire situation, establishing a tone that addresses Arjuna’s conflict. Krishna’s initial response challenges Arjuna to confront his own mindset and ego, setting the stage for the profound teachings that follow.

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

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