Why did Krishna choose to give an elaborate sermon of Gita to Arjuna instead of simply convincing him to fight the war?

Reflecting on the Bhagavad Gita, many readers often wonder why Shri Krishna, who is the Supreme Being, chose to deliver an extensive and profound discourse rather than simply reminding Arjuna about the humiliation of Draupadi or any other incidents. This question introduces us to the depth of the spiritual journey and the importance of inner understanding.

Key Reasons for the Elaborate Sermon

There are two major reasons behind Krishna's decision to deliver this extensive sermon. The first reason lies in the specific nature of the conflict Arjuna faced. Unlike the humiliation of Draupadi, which was committed primarily by Kauravas, Arjuna had to face not only Kauravas but also revered figures such as his grandfather Bhishma, his teacher Drona, and relatives like Kripa. Arjuna's love and respect for these individuals overshadowed his initial resolve to fight, leading him into a profound existential crisis.

The second reason is the timeless significance of the knowledge disseminated through the Bhagavad Gita. Krishna's teachings, though rooted in a specific historical context, resonate with universal truths that are still relevant in our modern world. By imparting wisdom to Arjuna, Krishna aimed to provide a guiding light for humanity, ensuring that the principles of righteousness and detachment continue to influence moral actions.

Arjuna's Existential Crisis

The Bhagavad Gita is a narrative of a profound existential crisis. Ere the battle, Arjuna was intellectually convinced of the righteousness of the war (Dharma-yudha) and the duty to fight in the name of justice. However, his intellect was not prepared for the emotional turmoil he would face at the battlefield. This conflict between intellect and emotion is a common experience for many individuals.

Arjuna's value system was centered around his Kshatriya identity, which provided him a sense of purpose. When he saw his own kin and loved ones on the battlefield, he was confronted with the reality of fulfilling his duty as a Kshatriya. This realization led to a profound crisis. The question of whether it was morally justifiable to kill his relatives took precedence over his sense of duty.

Arjuna felt a deep sense of despair, questioning the purpose of his actions if they led to killing his own kin. He debated the ethics of his decision and the consequences of his actions. This despair turned into an existential crisis, where he felt that his existence lacked meaning and purpose. This is a common experience when one's values and beliefs are shaken, leading to a crisis of faith and identity.

The Role of Krishna as a Divine Authority

Arjuna, feeling overwhelmed by his existential crisis, turned to Krishna, whom he regarded as a divine authority. He sought answers from the one who had always been a source of guidance and strength. Krishna, understanding the depth of Arjuna's crisis, offered him solace and wisdom. He dispelled Arjuna's doubts and provided clarity on the concept of detachment. The essence of Krishna's teachings was to perform one's duties without attachment to the results, similar to an artist painting a picture or a doctor treating a patient.

The Bhagavad Gita, thereby, becomes a timeless guide for anyone facing an existential crisis. Its messages of detachment, the importance of duty, and the need for clarity in the face of emotional turmoil are as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago. By seeking advice from a credible authority, individuals can find guidance and overcome their crises, leading to a more fulfilled and meaningful life.