Arjuna refers to the Kaurava forces as those gathered to fight for the evil-minded Dhritarashtra. His words reveal his sense of righteousness, casting the Kauravas as morally wrong for supporting Dhritarashtra’s unjust cause. The tension between family loyalty and dharma (duty) becomes clearer in his statement.

In response to Arjuna’s request, Krishna, referred to as Hrishikesha, positions the chariot between the two armies. Krishna’s role as Arjuna’s charioteer signifies his guidance and the importance of divine will in the unfolding battle. The verse also highlights Krishna’s composure and readiness to assist Arjuna.

Krishna deliberately positions the chariot in front of Bhishma and Drona, the most revered warriors on the Kaurava side. His words, calling Arjuna to observe the assembled Kurus, set the stage for Arjuna’s moral crisis, as he is faced with the reality of fighting against those he respects and loves.

Arjuna’s emotional turmoil deepens as he sees his kin on the battlefield. His sense of duty conflicts with his compassion for his relatives. This verse marks the start of Arjuna’s profound inner struggle, where the weight of his moral dilemma leads him to question the very purpose of the war.

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.