Bhagavad Gita: Chapter 1, Verse 11

In  Bhagavad Gita Chapter 1, Verse 11 of the Bhagavad Gita, the scene is set on the battlefield of Kurukshetra where Arjuna, a warrior prince, is hesitant to fight in the battle against his own relatives and mentors. This verse describes Arjuna’s state of mind as he sees his own kinsmen, including grandfathers, teachers, uncles, brothers, sons, grandsons, and companions, present on both sides of the battlefield.

The verse goes like this:

“अयानेषु च सर्वेषु यथा भागमवस्थिताः।
भीष्ममेवाभिरक्षन्तु भवन्तः सर्व एव हि।।” (Bhagavad Gita 1.11)

Translation:
“And also all these, standing here in array, marshaled according to their families, shall all of them, O Arjuna, even thyself fight.”

This verse signifies the dilemma and inner conflict that Arjuna faces. He is torn between his duty as a warrior and his familial ties. Lord Krishna, who serves as Arjuna’s charioteer and spiritual guide, will later counsel him on the path of righteousness and duty, guiding him towards understanding his purpose and duty in the grand scheme of things.