Arjuna, addressing Krishna as Achyuta, asks him to position their chariot between the two armies. Arjuna’s request highlights his desire to see who stands ready to fight, indicating his initial resolve to participate in the war. This moment foreshadows his inner conflict that will soon arise.

Arjuna expresses his intent to scrutinize the opposing warriors and assess the effort required in the battle. His words show that he is still committed to the fight, wanting to gauge the strength of his enemies. However, this also signals the beginning of his moral dilemma, which will surface soon.

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.

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.

As Arjuna surveys the battlefield, he sees familiar faces, including family members and respected elders. This scene marks the moment when Arjuna begins to feel conflicted about fighting in the war. The sight of his loved ones makes him question the righteousness of engaging in such a destructive conflict.

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.