Bhagavad Gita Chapter 3, Verse 36 (BG 3.36) — Meaning, Translation & Commentary

# BG 3.36 Following the tradition of dharma scriptures, Arjun here poses a definite question upon the matter under contemplation. From this very question, it becomes evident that Arjun had emerged considerably from his initial state of bewilderment, and had now begun the practice of self-reflection. As a result, he perceived within his own mind certain qualities and forces at work that were obstructing the expression of his higher virtues and destroying their very influence. His question is framed in such familiar words that it seems as though a student of today itself were posing this inquiry. There is no human being who does not possess, at least to some degree, knowledge of good and evil, merit and sin. Through intellect, every person knows what virtue is; yet when the time comes to act, one's inclination turns toward sin. This is a most unfortunate paradox. The distance that exists between one's own ideals and actual conduct becomes, for all those given to self-reflection and contemplation, a truly great problem. The divine qualities dwelling within our heart wish to express themselves and attain higher achievement; yet the bestial tendencies tempt us and lead us away from the path of true welfare, and we remain absorbed in the lower pleasures of the body. Most of the time, this occurs against our own will. Arjun asks: What is the nature of this demon seated within the mind that systematically plunders the divine qualities present within us? Since Sri Krishna was born in the Vrishni dynasty, his name was Vaarshneya. In answering this question...