Chapter 1 Verse 24
Arjun Viṣhād Yog
संजय उवाच एवमुक्तो हृषीकेशो गुडाकेशेन भारत। सेनयोरुभयोर्मध्ये स्थापयित्वा रथोत्तमम्।।1.24।।
sañjaya uvācha evam ukto hṛiṣhīkeśho guḍākeśhena bhārata senayor ubhayor madhye sthāpayitvā rathottamam
Word Meanings
| sañjayaḥ uvācha | Sanjay said |
| evam | thus |
| uktaḥ | addressed |
| hṛiṣhīkeśhaḥ | Shree Krishna, the Lord of the senses |
| guḍākeśhena | by Arjun, the conqueror of sleep |
| bhārata | descendant of Bharat |
| senayoḥ | armies |
| ubhayoḥ | the two |
| madhye | between |
| sthāpayitvā | having drawn |
| ratha-uttamam | magnificent chariot |
Translation
Sanjaya said, Thus addressed by Arjuna, Krishna stationed the best of chariots, O Dhritarashtra, in the midst of the two armies.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
Krishna placing the best chariot between the two armies shows a calm, deliberate start before a great conflict. It marks a moment of preparation and presence, not haste.
Philosophically, the chariot stands for the body-mind and Krishna for inner wisdom or conscience. Putting the chariot in the middle means holding a steady, observing position amid opposing forces—seeing both sides clearly before choosing action.
This scene also underlines the value of guidance and right means. When we face tough choices, having the best instruments—clear mind, firm values, and a wise guide—helps us act from duty and clarity rather than from panic.
Life Application
- Pause and make space before reacting in conflict; take a neutral, observing stance to see both sides.
- Bring your "best chariot"—clear thinking, steady breath, and core values—into tough decisions.
- Seek honest guidance (mentor, prayer, or conscience) before committing to major actions.
Reflection Question
What inner guide or practice can you place at the center of your next difficult decision?