gāṇḍīvaṁ sraṁsate hastāt tvak chaiva paridahyate
na cha śhaknomy avasthātuṁ bhramatīva cha me manaḥ
gāṇḍīvam — Arjun’s bow;
sraṁsate — is slipping;
hastāt — from (my) hand;
tvak — skin;
cha — and;
eva — indeed;
paridahyate — is burning all over;
na — not;
cha — and;
śhaknomi — am able;
avasthātum — remain steady;
bhramati iva — whirling like;
cha — and;
me — my;
manaḥ — mind;
In this verse, Arjuna is expressing how deeply troubled he is feeling at that moment. He was supposed to be a strong warrior ready for battle, but instead, he feels weak and confused. His bow, called Gandiva, is slipping from his hands, which symbolizes how he is losing his grip on the situation. On top of that, he feels a burning sensation on his skin, which shows how anxious and stressed he is feeling.
Arjuna is saying that he can’t stay on the battlefield any longer. His mind is in chaos; it's as if he can't think straight. He feels overwhelmed and can't even think about fighting anymore. He believes that no matter what happens, the outcome will only lead to more suffering.
This part of Arjuna’s struggle points out a common experience many people face when they are under extreme stress or pressure. When people are faced with difficult situations, they sometimes feel like they are losing control, just like Arjuna. He is not just worried about the physical battle ahead; he is also worried about the emotional consequences of fighting his own relatives and loved ones who are on the opposing side.
Arjuna reflects on the idea that even if he wins the battle, it will not bring him happiness. This shows his deep realization that material gains, like power or victory, might not bring true joy if they come at such a heavy price—like losing his family and friends in this battle. He starts to question the very purpose of the fight. Why should he go through all this pain even if he wins? Is a kingdom or success worth the loss of loved ones?
The struggle Arjuna faces is relatable to anyone who has to make tough choices that could hurt others, especially those they care about. His situation highlights a broader truth about life; sometimes, the things we desire or think will make us happy can lead to pain and suffering.
In essence, Arjuna knows that he should let go of his personal wants and listen to Krishna, who represents a higher truth and purpose. Arjuna's inner turmoil reflects a deeper understanding that happiness comes from more than just success or winning; it comes from ensuring the well-being of loved ones and staying true to oneself.