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.

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.

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.

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.