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Arjuna's Dilemma

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Myth and Literature

Definition

Arjuna's Dilemma refers to the internal conflict faced by Arjuna, a warrior prince, in the Bhagavad Gita when he hesitates to fight in the battle of Kurukshetra against his own relatives, teachers, and friends. This moral struggle highlights the tension between duty (dharma) and personal ethics, illustrating profound themes of justice, righteousness, and the nature of selfless action amidst the trials and tribulations of life.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Arjuna's Dilemma occurs at the beginning of the Bhagavad Gita when he is filled with doubt and compassion for those he must fight against, leading him to question the morality of war.
  2. This moment prompts Lord Krishna to impart spiritual wisdom to Arjuna, addressing concepts such as duty (dharma) and the importance of performing one's responsibilities without attachment.
  3. Arjuna's inner turmoil symbolizes a universal human experience of grappling with difficult choices that challenge personal values against societal expectations.
  4. Krishna encourages Arjuna to embrace his warrior role as a means to uphold righteousness, framing the battle as necessary for maintaining order and justice in society.
  5. The resolution of Arjuna's Dilemma leads him to understand that engaging in battle is a way to fulfill his dharma and contribute to a greater good, ultimately embracing his duty as a warrior.

Review Questions

  • How does Arjuna's Dilemma illustrate the conflict between personal ethics and societal duties?
    • Arjuna's Dilemma showcases the tension between his moral feelings for his loved ones and his duty as a warrior. He grapples with the implications of killing his relatives and teachers, which conflicts with his values of love and respect. This situation reflects the broader human struggle between individual beliefs and societal expectations, emphasizing how difficult decisions often arise from competing responsibilities.
  • Discuss how Krishna's teachings help resolve Arjuna's Dilemma and what philosophical concepts they introduce.
    • Krishna addresses Arjuna’s conflict by introducing key concepts like dharma and karma yoga. He teaches that fulfilling one's duty is essential for maintaining cosmic order, even when it involves difficult choices. By urging Arjuna to act selflessly without attachment to outcomes, Krishna provides a framework for navigating moral dilemmas while highlighting the importance of purpose-driven action in life.
  • Evaluate the significance of Arjuna's Dilemma in understanding broader themes within the Bhagavad Gita and its relevance to contemporary ethical challenges.
    • Arjuna's Dilemma serves as a foundational narrative within the Bhagavad Gita, exploring themes of duty, morality, and personal conflict. Its relevance extends beyond ancient texts into contemporary ethical challenges where individuals face conflicts between personal beliefs and societal roles. By examining Arjuna’s resolution through spiritual guidance, modern readers can glean insights into resolving their dilemmas while maintaining integrity and responsibility in their actions.

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