MAP OF PHILOSOPHY

TOPIC: ARJUNA’S DILEMMA AND THE GITA SOLUTION

PHILOSOPHICAL QUESTION: WHAT IS THE DUTY OF A WARRIOR AND

WHAT IS THE RIGHT ACTION WHEN DUTIES CONFLICT WITH ETHICS

BY – ALWIN CHRISTOPHER
IST YEAR PHILOSOPHY

Introduction
The Mahabharata is one of the greatest epics in world literature. It is not only a story of
family fight and epic battles but an important work of human nature, morality, and
philosophy. The heart of Mahabharata is nothing but Bhagavad Gita a scripture of imaginable
depth, having over 700 verses that tell the complexities of human existence. It happens at the
battlefield of Kurukshetra. The Gita is seen as a dialogue between the warrior prince Arjuna
and his divine charioteer Krishna. Arjuna, a hero faced with a moral dilemma to wage war
against his own relatives. It becomes a universal symbol of human conflict. So now he has
the dilemma whether to fulfill his duty as a warrior or to give up the violence. This paper
work deals with the topic of Arjuna’s dilemma and the philosophical solutions given by
Krishna. It gives the teachings of the Gita in both their historical and contemporary contexts,
demonstrating how Gita is important even in the modern world. Because where as individuals
struggle with conflicts between duty and ethics.

1. Historical Background of the Bhagavad Gita

The Bhagavad Gita is a part of the Mahabharata, specifically happens within the Bhishma
Parva. While the Mahabharata itself is dated to around 400 BCE to 400 CE, the Gita is likely
come between the 5th and 2nd centuries BCE. Its verses would have come from schools of
Indian thought, including the ascetic teachings of the Upanishads, the pragmatic ethics of the
Dharmashastras, and the metaphysical explorations of the Samkhya and Yoga traditions. The
Gita’s universal appeal lies in its ability to integrate these philosophies into a doctrine that
addresses the dualities of human life, action and renunciation, duty and desire, individuality
and universality. It is both a philosophical treatise and a practical guide for ethical living,
emphasizing the unity of worldly engagement and spiritual liberation. Over centuries, the
Gita has influenced a diverse range of thinkers and movements. Mahatma Gandhi called it his
"spiritual dictionary," drawing strength from its teachings on selfless action (nishkama
karma) and non-attachment.

2. Arjuna’s Dilemma

The Bhagavad Gita opens with a depiction of Arjuna’s inner turmoil. As a kshatriya, or
warrior, Arjuna is bound by his dharma to fight for justice and uphold righteousness. But
when he sees his family, friends, and teachers on the battlefield he is troubled by grief and
moral doubt. He questions the very purpose of war, crying for the destruction of family ties
and the effect of societal values that the war might cause. Arjuna’s crisis is deeply human.
His hesitation is not born of cowardice but of compassion, attachment, and an acute
awareness of the ethical implications of his actions. He is paralyzed by a conflict between
svadharma (his personal duty as a warrior) and sanatana dharma (the universal moral law).
Krishna’s response begins with empathy but moves to challenge Arjuna’s limited perspective.
He reframes the dilemma through a philosophical idea. It offers insights into life, the nature
of the self (atman), and the higher purpose of human existence.

3. Philosophical Themes in the Bhagavad Gita

3.1. Dharma: The Principle of Duty

At the heart of Krishna’s teachings is the concept of dharma. While often translated as "duty,"
dharma encompasses a broader sense of moral order and cosmic harmony. Each individual
has a unique svadharma shaped by their nature (guna), role in society, and circumstances. For
Arjuna, his svadharma as a kshatriya demands that he fight to protect justice, even at great
personal cost. Scholars like Bal Gangadhar Tilak in his work Gita Rahasya have emphasized
that the Gita’s view of dharma is not by fate. It evolves with context requiring discernment
and self awareness. This dynamic understanding of dharma tells personal actions with
universal well being, offering a model for ethical decision making in many situations.

3.2. Karma and Nishkama Karma

The Gita introduces the transformative concept of nishkama karma, or action without
attachment to results. Krishna advises Arjuna to act wisely but without being attached by
desires or fears of failure. This principle liberates individuals from the anxiety of success or
failure. It enables them to focus on the process rather than the results. Modern interpreters
like Eknath Easwaran have highlighted the relevance of nishkama karma in contemporary
life, particularly in professional contexts where ethical dilemmas often arise. By prioritizing
integrity and selfless action, individuals can balance ambition with a sense of purpose and
inner peace.

3.3. Bhakti: Devotion and Surrender

The path of bhakti, or devotion, is another central theme of the Gita. Krishna teaches that
unwavering devotion to a higher power can help individuals forego ego and self centeredness.
This surrender is not passive but an active alignment of personal will with divine wisdom.
Gandhi interpreted bhakti as a relationship with truth, while others view it as a means of
cultivating humility and resilience. The Gita portrays bhakti as accessible to all, irrespective
of social or cultural barriers, emphasizing its universal applicability.

3.4. Atman and the Eternal Self

One of Krishna’s key teachings is the distinction between the imperishable soul (atman) and
the temporary body. By understanding that the atman is eternal and untouched by physical
death, Arjuna is encouraged to rise above his fears and attachments. This metaphysical
perspective aligns with the Upanishads, which assert the unity of the individual self with the
ultimate reality (Brahman). This teaching has profound psychological implications, fostering
resilience and a sense of interconnectedness.

3.5. The Gunas and Human Nature

The Gita’s discussion of the three gunas such as sattva (purity), rajas (passion), and tamas
(ignorance) offers a framework for understanding human tendencies and behavior. Krishna
emphasizes that self awareness and disciplined practice can help individuals transcend these
qualities, achieving spiritual liberation (moksha). In modern psychology, this insight aligns
with concepts of personality and behavior modification, emphasizing the role of mindfulness
and conscious effort in personal growth.

4. The Gita’s Solution to Arjuna’s Dilemma

5. The Gita in Modern Contexts

The Bhagavad Gita has transcended its historical and cultural origins to become a global text,
influencing fields as diverse as spirituality, leadership, ethics, and psychology. Its teachings
remain relevant in addressing contemporary challenges and guiding personal and collective
action.

5.1. Personal Growth and Mindfulness

In today’s fast paced and competitive world, where stress and anxiety are more the Gita’s
emphasis on inner balance and mindfulness offers practical tools for personal growth.
Mindfulness through Nishkama Karma where Krishna’s teaching to focus on action without
attachment to results resonates with modern mindfulness practices. By emphasizing presence
in the moment and detachment from outcomes the Gita encourages individuals to navigate
life’s challenges with resilience and clarity.

5.2. Leadership and Ethics

The Gita has profound implications for leadership, particularly in navigating ethical
dilemmas and balancing competing priorities. In ethical leadership Krishna emphasis on
dharma and nishkama karma provides a framework for decision making that prioritizes long
term good over short-term gains. For leaders in business or politics, this principle can guide
ethical decision-making, particularly in situations where profits or power conflict with social
responsibility. To tell about Sustainability, it Consider the challenges of climate change.
Leaders who adopt the Gita’s principles might focus on sustainable practices, even at the
expense of immediate profits, recognizing their duty to future generations. The Gita also
emphasizes humility, a quality often lacking in leadership.

5.3. Social Justice and Collective Responsibility

The Gita’s vision of interconnectedness and universal harmony is particularly relevant in

addressing global challenges like inequality, environmental degradation, and social injustice.
Activism and Engagement: The Gita inspires individuals to act with determination and
resilience, even in the face of adversity. Activists like Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma
Gandhi drew upon its teachings to persevere in their struggles for justice and equality.
Environmental Ethics: In the context of environmentalism, the Gita’s principles can guide
sustainable living and collective responsibility. The idea of lokasangraha—acting for the
welfare of the world—encourages individuals to align personal actions with global well-
being.

5.4. Relevance in Corporate and Professional Life

The Gita has also found applications in corporate training programs and professional
development. Its teachings on focus, discipline, and ethical behavior resonate deeply in these
settings. Workplace Ethics: The principle of nishkama karma encourages professionals to
approach their work with dedication and detachment, reducing burnout and fostering a sense
of purpose. Team Collaboration: Krishna’s teachings on devotion and interconnectedness
also highlight the importance of collective effort and harmony in achieving shared goals.

5.5. Integration with Modern Spirituality

In an age of increasing interest in spirituality, the Gita has become a cornerstone text for
seekers around the world. Its synthesis of jnana (knowledge), bhakti (devotion), and karma
(action) provides a holistic approach to spiritual growth. Global Influence: The Gita’s
teachings have been embraced by spiritual movements worldwide, from yoga communities to
interfaith dialogues. Its universality lies in its ability to address fundamental questions of
existence, morality, and purpose, regardless of cultural or religious background. Inclusivity:
Unlike texts that cater to specific theological doctrines, the Gita appeals to both the religious
and the secular, offering practical wisdom alongside metaphysical insights.

6. Critiques and Reinterpretations

The Bhagavad Gita has inspired admiration for its philosophical depth but has also faced
criticism and debate over its interpretations. These critiques arise both from its historical
context and from how its teachings have been applied or misapplied over centuries.

6.1. Justification of War and Violence

One of the most contentious aspects of the Gita is its setting on the battlefield and Krishna’s
urging of Arjuna to engage in war. Critics argue that this narrative could be interpreted as a
justification for violence under the guise of duty (dharma). This perspective has been
especially controversial when applied in political or militaristic contexts. For example, during
India’s freedom struggle, some nationalist leaders invoked the Gita to motivate armed
resistance against colonial rule. On the other hand, pacifists like Mahatma Gandhi argued that
the battle in the Gita was symbolic, representing an internal struggle between good and evil
within oneself, rather than a literal endorsement of physical conflict. Scholars like B.R.
Ambedkar also critiqued this aspect, questioning whether a text advocating such a message
could serve as a universal moral guide. However, defenders of the Gita emphasize Krishna’s
insistence on action rooted in righteousness and ethical considerations, rather than blind
adherence to violence.
6.2. Caste and Varna Dharma

Another significant critique of the Gita concerns its association with varna dharma, the idea
of duties prescribed based on one’s caste or social class. Critics like Ambedkar saw this as a
reinforcement of the rigid caste hierarchy in Indian society, which perpetuated inequality and
discrimination. Krishna’s statement in the Gita that “one’s own duty, though imperfectly
performed, is better than the duty of another well-performed” (svadharma) has often been
interpreted as endorsing the caste-based division of labor. This interpretation has led to
debates about whether the Gita inherently supports a hierarchical social order or whether it
merely reflects the societal norms of its time. Contemporary thinkers and reformists have
sought to reinterpret this concept, emphasizing the flexibility of svadharma. Rather than
linking it to birth-based caste duties, they argue that it should be understood as aligning one’s
actions with one’s personal aptitudes, responsibilities, and circumstances. Modern readings
thus attempt to extract universal principles from the text while critiquing its historically
contingent elements.

6.3. Overemphasis on Renunciation

The Gita’s advocacy for detachment (nishkama karma)—acting without attachment to

outcomes—has also drawn criticism. Some argue that this emphasis on renunciation may lead
to passivity or an abdication of responsibility, particularly in social and political contexts. For
instance, leaders or citizens who overly focus on detachment might neglect the urgency of
immediate action in addressing pressing issues like inequality or environmental degradation.
Critics contend that while detachment can foster inner peace, it must not come at the cost of
societal engagement. Defenders counter that the Gita does not advocate inaction but
encourages mindful and ethical engagement. Krishna explicitly criticizes escapism and
highlights the need for purposeful action aligned with duty. This balance between detachment
and commitment remains a cornerstone of the text’s philosophy.

6.4. Misinterpretations and Instrumentalization

Over the centuries, the Gita has been co-opted to justify diverse, and sometimes conflicting,
ideologies. Some political movements have used its teachings to promote nationalism, while
others have emphasized its spiritual message to support nonviolence. The multiplicity of
interpretations has raised questions about the text’s coherence and universality. Some critics
suggest that the Gita’s adaptability makes it prone to misuse. However, its defenders argue
that this very adaptability reflects its depth and relevance across contexts, inviting continuous
reinterpretation rather than rigid dogma.

Conclusion

Arjuna’s dilemma on the battlefield of Kurukshetra is more than a personal crisis; it is a

reflection of the universal human experience of ethical conflict. The Bhagavad Gita addresses
this dilemma with profound philosophical insights, offering a roadmap for navigating life’s
complexities with clarity, courage, and compassion. Through its teachings on duty, selfless
action, devotion, and self-realization, the Gita provides timeless wisdom for individuals and
societies alike. It challenges us to rise above narrow self-interests, embrace our
responsibilities, and contribute to a harmonious and purposeful existence. In a world rife with
uncertainties and moral ambiguities, the Gita remains a beacon of hope and guidance,
inspiring individuals to live with integrity, resilience, and a sense of higher purpose.

References

Easwaran, Eknath. The Bhagavad Gita for Daily Living. Tomales, CA: Nilgiri Press, 2007.

Gandhi, M.K. The Bhagavad Gita According to Gandhi. Berkeley: North Atlantic Books,
2009.

Radhakrishnan, S. The Bhagavadgita: A Philosophical Approach. London: Harper &

Brothers, 1948.

Tilak, Bal Gangadhar. Gita Rahasya. Pune: Tilak Bros., 1915.

Zaehner, R.C. The Bhagavad Gita: With a Commentary Based on the Original Sources.
Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1969.