Chapter 1, Verse 23
योत्स्यमानानवेक्षेऽहं य एतेऽत्र समागता: | धार्तराष्ट्रस्य दुर्बुद्धेर्युद्धे प्रियचिकीर्षव: ॥23॥
yotsyamānān avekṣe ’haṃ ya ete ’tra samāgatāḥ |
dhārtarāṣṭrasya durbuddher yuddhe priya-cikīrṣavaḥ ||
"I wish to see those who have gathered here, ready to fight, desiring to please the evil-minded son of Dhritarashtra in this war."
Key Insight:
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 1.23 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 1.23 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
Detailed Meaning
Arjuna expresses his intent to scrutinize the assembly of warriors. He specifically identifies them as supporters of Duryodhana, whom he characterizes as 'durbuddhi' (evil-minded or perverted in intellect). This verse highlights Arjuna's clarity regarding the moral divide: he isn't just looking at soldiers, but at individuals who have consciously chosen to support an unrighteous cause to satisfy a wicked leader's desires. It marks the transition from mere observation to moral assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core message of Gita 1.23?
I wish to see those who have gathered here, ready to fight, desiring to please the evil-minded son of Dhritarashtra in this war.