Arjuna begins expressing his physical reactions to the emotional stress he is experiencing. The sight of his relatives ready to kill each other causes him to feel weak, shaky, and paralyzed by fear. This verse conveys the depth of Arjuna’s inner crisis, where his body reacts to the mental conflict he faces.

Arjuna continues to describe his physical symptoms, highlighting the extent of his distress. His inability to hold his bow, a symbol of his warrior duty, reflects his internal turmoil. The burning sensation and loss of control indicate his intense psychological and emotional suffering as he grapples with the decision to fight.

Arjuna’s emotional breakdown deepens as he confesses that he cannot stand firm due to his mental and physical state. His mind is clouded, and he perceives only negative outcomes, reflecting his inner turmoil and the overwhelming moral dilemma he faces about the consequences of war.

Arjuna asks Krishna what good can come from material success when the very people for whom these gains are sought are on the battlefield, prepared to fight. He is grappling with the emotional weight of potentially losing loved ones and questions the value of life and luxury in such a context.

Arjuna continues to list the various family members who are about to engage in battle. He emphasizes the personal relationships he has with those on the opposing side, stressing the gravity of the situation. The emotional conflict intensifies as he contemplates the tragic loss of life that could result from the war.

Arjuna expresses his unwillingness to kill his relatives, even if they attack him first. He values the bonds of kinship over material gain, rejecting the idea of ruling over not only the earth but even the three worlds. This underscores his deep inner conflict between duty and compassion.