Chapter 1, Verse 38
यद्यप्येते न पश्यन्ति लोभोपहतचेतस: | कुलक्षयकृतं दोषं मित्रद्रोहे च पातकम् ॥38॥
yadyapyete na paśyanti lobhopahata-cetasaḥ | kula-kṣaya-kṛtaṁ doṣaṁ mitra-drohe ca pātakam ||
"O Janardana, although these people, whose hearts have become perverted by greed, do not see the evil arising from destroying the family and sin in hostility towards friends,"
Key Insight:
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 1.38 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 1.38 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
Detailed Meaning
Arjuna points out the psychological blindness caused by greed (lobha). He observes that while the Kauravas are driven by an insatiable desire for power, they have lost the ability to perceive the long-term karmic and social consequences of their actions. The verse highlights two specific moral transgressions: 'Kula-kshaya' (the destruction of the family/dynasty) and 'Mitra-drohe' (treachery against friends and allies). Arjuna's dilemma stems from his own ability to see these faults, leading him to question why he, who possesses this knowledge, should participate in the same path of destruction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core message of Gita 1.38?
O Janardana, although these people, whose hearts have become perverted by greed, do not see the evil arising from destroying the family and sin in hostility towards friends,