अर्जुन उवाच हृषीकेशं तदा वाक्यमिदमाह महीपते। सेनयोरुभयोर्मध्ये रथं स्थापय मेऽच्युत।।1.21।।
Arjuna said, "O Acyuta! Please halt my chariot at a center place between the two armies, so that I may scrutinize these men who are standing with desire to fight and with whom I have to fight in this great war-effort."
Translation
Arjuna spoke to Lord Krishna: "O Acyuta, place my chariot in the middle of the battlefield, so that I can see who is present here and ready to fight. I wish to observe those who are arrayed against me in this great war."
Word Meanings
arjunaḥ uvāca — Arjuna said senayoḥ — of the armies ubhayor — of both madhye — in the middle ratham — the chariot sthāpaya — place me — my acyuta — Shree Krishna, the infallible One
Understanding the Verse
In this verse, Arjuna addresses Shree Krishna as "Acyuta," which means the infallible or unfailing One. Arjuna’s devotion towards Lord Krishna is clearly reflected in his deep reverence for the Lord, recognizing Him as a source of strength and guidance. Arjuna requests Krishna to place his chariot at the center of the battlefield, between the two warring armies. This moment marks a crucial turning point, as Arjuna, though an exceptional warrior, is now filled with doubt and uncertainty. He wants to survey the battlefield and understand who he will be fighting against, and his request to Shree Krishna signifies the beginning of his internal turmoil and moral dilemma. Arjuna, despite being a mighty warrior and a devoted follower of Krishna, faces the dilemma of battling his own kin, teachers, and friends. The phrase "I wish to scrutinize these men" highlights Arjuna’s deep moral conflict. He knows that the war is inevitable but is also troubled by the thought of engaging in a battle against those he has loved and respected. Arjuna’s request signifies the complexity of his emotions as he seeks clarity before making a decision. This verse also emphasizes the special relationship between Arjuna and Lord Krishna. Arjuna, though a great warrior, humbles himself before Krishna and relies on Him for guidance. The deeper spiritual connection between the two is apparent, with Arjuna not merely seeing Krishna as a charioteer, but as his most trusted guide in this moment of crisis.
