Illustration for Bhagavad Gita chapter 1 verse 23
Chapter 1 · Arjuna Vishada Yoga

Seeing People Clearly · Beyond Sides

योत्स्यमानानवेक्षेऽहं य एतेऽत्र समागताः । धार्तराष्ट्रस्य दुर्बुद्धेर्युद्धे प्रियचिकीर्षवः ।।23।।

yotsyamānān avekṣe 'haṃ ya ete 'tra samāgatāḥ dhārtarāṣṭrasya durbuddher yuddhe priya-cikīrṣavaḥ

Meaning

"Let me see those who have gathered here to fight, wishing to please the evil-minded son of Dhritarashtra."

Explanation

Arjuna's tone hints at his awareness that many on the other side are simply loyal followers of Duryodhana's ambition.

Today's Life Lesson

Try to see the people around a conflict as individuals, not just as members of the other side.

More verses to reflect on