Chapter 2, Verse 9
सञ्जय उवाच | एवमुक्त्वा हृषीकेशं गुडाकेश: परन्तप | न योत्स्य इति गोविन्दमुक्त्वा तूष्णीं बभूव ह ॥9॥
sañjaya uvāca | evam uktvā hṛṣīkeśaṁ guḍākeśaḥ parantapa | na yotsya iti govindam uktvā tūṣṇīm babhūva ha
"Sanjaya said: Having spoken thus to Hrishikesha (the Master of the Senses), Gudakesha (the Conqueror of Sleep), the scorcher of foes, told Govinda, 'I shall not fight,' and fell silent."
Key Insight:
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 2.9 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
The Bhagavad Gita teaches us through 2.9 that true peace is found when we align our actions with Dharma.
Detailed Meaning
In this pivotal moment, Sanjaya uses specific epithets to contrast the characters. Arjuna is called 'Gudakesha' (one who has mastered sleep/ignorance) and 'Parantapa' (chastiser of enemies), highlighting his inherent strength even in his moment of breakdown. Krishna is addressed as 'Hrishikesha' (Lord of the senses) and 'Govinda' (giver of pleasure to the senses/land/cows). Arjuna's declaration 'Na yotsya' (I will not fight) followed by silence represents the 'State of Sharanagati' or the limit of human ego, where the seeker finally stops arguing and prepares to listen to the Divine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core message of Gita 2.9?
Sanjaya said: Having spoken thus to Hrishikesha (the Master of the Senses), Gudakesha (the Conqueror of Sleep), the scorcher of foes, told Govinda, 'I shall not fight,' and fell silent.