Bhagavad Gita Chapter 1 Verse 37 Meaning

Therefore, we should not kill the sons of Dhritarashtra, our relatives; for how can we be happy by killing our own kin, O Madhava (Krishna)?

BG 1.37

तस्मान्नार्हा वयं हन्तुं धार्तराष्ट्रान्स्वबान्धवान्। स्वजनं हि कथं हत्वा सुखिनः स्याम माधव

tasmān nārhā vayaṁ hantuṁ dhārtarāṣhṭrān sa-bāndhavān sva-janaṁ hi kathaṁ hatvā sukhinaḥ syāma mādhava

Meaning

Therefore, we should not kill the sons of Dhritarashtra, our relatives; for how can we be happy by killing our own kin, O Madhava (Krishna)?

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Explanation & Life Application

This verse from Chapter 1 of the Bhagavad Gita highlights a practical insight: Therefore, we should not kill the sons of Dhritarashtra, our relatives; for how can we be happy by killing our own kin, O Madhava (Krishna)?.

In Arjuna's Dilemma (Arjuna Visada Yoga), Krishna explains Arjuna's moral crisis on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, where he must fight against his own relatives, teachers, and friends.

— Explained by the Nitya Team

Chapter Context

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.

When to Apply This Verse

  • •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 1.37?
Therefore, we should not kill the sons of Dhritarashtra, our relatives; for how can we be happy by killing our own kin, O Madhava (Krishna)?. This verse emphasizes moral dilemma with clarity and purpose.
How can I apply Bhagavad Gita 1.37 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.

Related Verses

BG 1.1

Dhritarashtra said, "What did my people and the sons of Pandu do when they had assembled together, eager for battle, on the holy plain of Kurukshetra, O Sanjaya?"

BG 1.28

Arjuna said, "O Krishna, seeing my kinsmen arrayed here, eager to fight,

BG 2.11

The Blessed Lord said, "You have grieved for those who should not be grieved for; yet, you speak words of wisdom. The wise grieve neither for the living nor for the dead."

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← Back to Chapter 1: Arjuna's Dilemma

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