यावदेतान्निरीक्षेऽहं योद्धुकामानवस्थितान्। कैर्मया सह योद्धव्यमस्मिन्रणसमुद्यमे।।1.22।।
"I wish to see those who are eager to fight and are stationed here, ready for battle, to determine with whom I must fight in this great war."
Translation
Arjuna said, "I wish to examine those who are stationed here, eager for battle, to know who I must fight in this war, which is being waged for the desires of the evil-minded son of Dhritarashtra."
Word Meanings
yāvat — as many as etān — these nirīkṣhe — I look aham — I yoddhu-kāmān — desiring to fight avasthitān — stationed kaiḥ — with whom mayā — by me saha — together yoddhavyam — must fight asmin — in this raṇa-samudyame — great battle-effort
Understanding the Verse
In this verse, Arjuna expresses his desire to observe the warriors who are standing on the opposing side, eager to engage in battle. Arjuna, though fully aware of his duty as a warrior, is filled with sorrow and hesitation at the thought of fighting against his own family, teachers, and friends. The phrase "stationed here and eager to fight" reflects his contemplation about the warriors arrayed before him and the emotional turmoil he is undergoing. These are not just opponents for Arjuna; they are beloved elders, relatives, and allies, making the war deeply painful for him. Arjuna emphasizes that the war is fought for the desires of Duryodhana, the son of Dhritarashtra, who is driven by ambition and evil intent. This implies that Arjuna recognizes the war is not being fought for justice or righteousness, but for the self-centered and wrongful ambitions of Duryodhana, which adds to his internal conflict. At this point, Arjuna is preparing for battle but is still in a state of emotional unrest, knowing that he will have to face those whom he has long considered family. This struggle reflects the complexities of war, where the battle is not just physical but moral and emotional. Arjuna's conversation with Lord Krishna, who is acting as his charioteer, will continue to unfold in the following verses, wherein Krishna will guide him through his doubts and dilemmas.
