Chapter 2 Verse 31
Sānkhya Yog
स्वधर्ममपि चावेक्ष्य न विकम्पितुमर्हसि। धर्म्याद्धि युद्धाछ्रेयोऽन्यत्क्षत्रियस्य न विद्यते।।2.31।।
swa-dharmam api chāvekṣhya na vikampitum arhasi dharmyāddhi yuddhāch chhreyo ’nyat kṣhatriyasya na vidyate
Word Meanings
| swa-dharmam | one’s duty in accordance with the Vedas |
| api | also |
| cha | and |
| avekṣhya | considering |
| na | not |
| vikampitum | to waver |
| arhasi | should |
| dharmyāt | for righteousness |
| hi | indeed |
| yuddhāt | than fighting |
| śhreyaḥ | better |
| anyat | another |
| kṣhatriyasya | of a warrior |
| na | not |
| vidyate | exists |
Translation
Further, having regard to your duty, you should not waver, for there is nothing higher for a Kshatriya than a righteous war.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
Krishna tells Arjuna to look closely at his duty and not to waver. For a warrior, fighting a righteous battle is the highest duty. The verse asks him to act from duty, not from fear or doubt.
More broadly, the teaching says we must stand firm in doing what is right for our role in life. It is not about violence for its own sake, but about courageously carrying out responsible action when the situation demands it.
This steadiness comes from inner clarity: when your choice is guided by moral purpose, you act without being paralyzed by worry about results or social pressure. Faithful, responsible action is the path to honor and spiritual growth.
Life Application
- Name the duty that matters most to you now (work, family, service) and choose one concrete step that aligns with right action.
- When fear or doubt arise, ask whether your hesitation avoids responsibility or protects your values; then act on the value.
- Prepare and do your part honestly; accept outcomes without letting fear stop you from doing what is right.
Reflection Question
What duty am I avoiding out of fear, and what is one small step I can take today to meet it?