Bhagavad Gita: Chapter 1, Verse 10
In Bhagavad Gita Chapter 1, Verse 10 of the Bhagavad Gita, the blind king Dhritarashtra, who is unable to witness the battlefield directly, inquires about the activities of his sons and the Pandavas from Sanjaya, his charioteer and advisor who possesses the divine vision to see the events transpiring on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
Here is the verse:
“एवमुक्त्वार्जुनः सङ्ख्ये रथोपस्थ उपाविशत्। विसृज्य सशरं चापं शोकसंविग्नमानसः।।” (Bhagavad Gita 1.10)
Translation: “Thus speaking on the battlefield, Arjuna, having placed his chariot in the midst of both armies, his heart overwhelmed with grief and compassion, put down his bow and arrows.”
This verse depicts Arjuna’s emotional state as he surveys the battlefield before the commencement of the war. Overwhelmed by sorrow and compassion, he sets aside his bow and arrows, symbolizing his reluctance and inner turmoil about engaging in the battle against his own relatives and loved ones.
Dhritarashtra’s inquiry indicates his concern and curiosity about the unfolding events, reflecting the tension and anticipation surrounding the imminent conflict between the Kauravas and the Pandavas.