Bhagavad Gita Chapter 1 Verse 38 Meaning
Though they, with intelligence overpowered by greed, see no evil in the destruction of families and no sin in hostility to friends,
BG 1.38
यद्यप्येते न पश्यन्ति लोभोपहतचेतसः। कुलक्षयकृतं दोषं मित्रद्रोहे च पातकम्
yady apy ete na paśhyanti lobhopahata-chetasaḥ kula-kṣhaya-kṛitaṁ doṣhaṁ mitra-drohe cha pātakam
Meaning
Though they, with intelligence overpowered by greed, see no evil in the destruction of families and no sin in hostility to friends,
Available in 16 languages
What Does Bhagavad Gita 1.38 Mean?
Though they, with intelligence overpowered by greed, see no evil in the destruction of families and no sin in hostility to friends, This verse from Arjuna Vishada Yoga speaks directly to the theme of compassion, offering insight that deepens our understanding of the Gita's teaching. Shankaracharya emphasizes that this teaching is not merely contextual but universal. The principle of compassion expressed here transcends its battlefield setting and speaks to the fundamental relationship between action, knowledge, and spiritual realization.
The practical invitation is to hold this verse as a mirror. Where in your life does the principle of compassion feel most challenging? That is precisely where the teaching has the most to offer.
— Explained by the Nitya Team
What Is the Context of Bhagavad Gita 1.38?
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 1.38 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 1.38?
How can I apply Bhagavad Gita 1.38 in daily life?
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."
Read in Other Languages
Build a daily reading habit with Nitya
Get the Free App