Bhagavad Gita Chapter 1 Verse 35 Meaning

These I do not wish to kill, O Krishna, even though they kill me, for the sake of dominion over the three worlds; leave alone killing them for the sake of the earth."

BG 1.35

एतान्न हन्तुमिच्छामि घ्नतोऽपि मधुसूदन। अपि त्रैलोक्यराज्यस्य हेतोः किं नु महीकृते

etān na hantum ichchhāmi ghnato ’pi madhusūdana api trailokya-rājyasya hetoḥ kiṁ nu mahī-kṛite

Meaning

These I do not wish to kill, O Krishna, even though they kill me, for the sake of dominion over the three worlds; leave alone killing them for the sake of the earth."

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What Does Bhagavad Gita 1.35 Mean?

These I do not wish to kill, O Krishna, even though they kill me, for the sake of dominion over the three worlds; leave alone killing them for the sake of the earth." This verse from Arjuna Vishada Yoga speaks directly to the theme of moral crisis, offering insight that deepens our understanding of the Gita's teaching. The verse operates on multiple levels. On the surface, it addresses Arjuna's immediate situation.

At a deeper level, it articulates a universal principle about grief that applies to every person navigating the complexities of moral and spiritual life. Applied to contemporary life, this teaching asks us to examine our relationship with grief. Not through self-judgment, but through honest observation that gradually shifts our center of gravity from reactive habit to conscious choice.

— Explained by the Nitya Team

What Is the Context of Bhagavad Gita 1.35?

Arjuna's moral crisis on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, where he must fight against his own relatives, teachers, and friends.

Key themes in this chapter include Moral dilemma, Family duty, Compassion.

How Can I Apply Bhagavad Gita 1.35 in Daily Life?

  • When you need steadiness while dealing with moral dilemma
  • When practicing family duty amid uncertainty
  • When applying compassion to real-life choices

Verse FAQs

What is the main idea of Bhagavad Gita 1.35?
These I do not wish to kill, O Krishna, even though they kill me, for the sake of dominion over the three worlds; leave alone killing them for the sake of the earth." This verse from Arjuna Vishada Yoga speaks directly to the theme of moral crisis, offering insight that deepens our understanding of...
How can I apply Bhagavad Gita 1.35 in daily life?
Apply this teaching when making choices or doing your duties. Focus on family duty and keep your mind steady regardless of outcomes.

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← Back to Chapter 1: Arjuna's Dilemma

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