swa-dharmam api chāvekṣhya na vikampitum arhasi
dharmyāddhi yuddhāch chhreyo ’nyat kṣhatriyasya na vidyate
swa-dharmam — one’s duty in accordance with the Vedas;
api — also;
cha — and;
avekṣhya — considering;
na — not;
vikampitum — to waver;
arhasi — should;
dharmyāt — for righteousness;
hi — indeed;
yuddhāt — than fighting;
śhreyaḥ — better;
anyat — another;
kṣhatriyasya — of a warrior;
na — not;
vidyate — exists
In this verse, Krishna is telling Arjuna that as a ksatriya, or warrior, it is his duty to fight, especially when it is for a good cause or righteousness. The ksatriyas are one of the four main classes in society, and their role is to protect the people. The word "ksatriya" comes from the root meaning to protect, indicating that these warriors are trained to defend against threats and to take action when necessary.
Think of a ksatriya as a guardian or protector, like a police officer or a firefighter in modern society. Just as these professionals are trained to deal with dangers for the safety of others, ksatriyas are prepared to confront dangers such as invaders or enemies, and even to kill if it comes to that, always with the aim of protecting their people and preserving justice.
Krishna uses the context of a battle to make a point about duty. Arjuna is having doubts about fighting his relatives and teachers who are on the opposite side of the battlefield. He is feeling emotional and confused about what is right. Krishna reminds him that avoiding his duty as a warrior out of pity is not honorable. Instead, he should focus on his responsibilities as a ksatriya, which is to fight for what is right, as that is what is expected of him according to the rules of his social role. In other words, Krishna is urging Arjuna not to hesitate when it comes to fulfilling his duties, particularly when it involves defending righteousness.
This idea extends beyond the battlefield to everyday life. Everyone has specific roles and responsibilities based on their skills, training, and circumstances. For example, a teacher has the duty to educate students, a mother has the duty to care for her children, and a doctor has the duty to heal patients. Just like Arjuna must fulfill his duty as a warrior, people in their respective roles should also engage in the tasks assigned to them, especially if it contributes positively to society.
Additionally, Krishna explains that as long as people are not liberated (meaning they have not reached a state of ultimate spiritual understanding), they must adhere to their duties according to their nature and social role. Performing these duties respectfully and conscientiously helps them grow spiritually and can eventually lead to a higher level of existence beyond the material world. Once someone achieves liberation, their duties can evolve into more spiritual responsibilities.
Overall, in this verse, Krishna emphasizes the importance of duty and how fulfilling one’s specific responsibilities, especially when they align with righteousness, is crucial not only for personal growth but also for the well-being of society as a whole.