Bhagavad Gita Chapter 1, Verse 37 (BG 1.37) — Meaning, Translation & Commentary

1.37 तस्मात् therefore? न (are) not? अर्हाः justified? वयम् we? हन्तुम् to kill? धार्तराष्ट्रान् the sons of Dhritarashtra? स्वबान्धवान् our relatives? स्वजनम् kinsmen? हि indeed? कथम् how? हत्वा having killed? सुखिनः happy? स्याम may (we) be? माधव O Madhava.No Commentary.

It appears that Arjuna's reasoning is in accordance with the scriptures. Through those who misinterpret the scriptures—whether knowingly or unknowingly—philosophy suffers great harm. Arjuna, satisfied with the arguments he himself has put forth and believing them to be correct, arrives at this dangerous conclusion that he should not slay these aggressors. The Lord, however, remains silent. Through Sri Krishna's silence, Arjuna becomes even more disturbed and, approaching Him with a pitiful plea, seeks confirmation of his foolish decision. Long companionship has deepened the affection between them, and for this reason Arjuna addresses the Lord Sri Krishna by the name Madhava and asks how any person can remain happy after slaying their own kinsmen. The Lord remains silent still.