Verse-43
Chapter 18 — Moksha Sanyasa Yoga
Verse 43
🕉 Original Sanskrit Shloka
śauryam tejo dhṛtidākṣyam yuddhe cāpyapalāyanam
dānamīśvarabhāvaśca kṣātram karma svabhāvajam
🕉 English Translation
Tej aur chaturta jo hai shoorveer,
Bhage na yudh se kabhi aisa dheer,
Daan aur shashan niyam se kare,
Karma Kshatriya ke ye swabhav se.
📜 Translation
English
Prowess, splendour, patience, dexterity, not fleeing from the battlefield, to give charity, and nature of governing–all of them are the natural deeds of the Kshatriyas.
If the order of the classes is not taken with an attitude of adamancy or according to one's limited beliefs or with the attitude of showing or seeing persons as superior and inferior or with any malicious feelings, then it becomes a means for disciplined and organized governance of the society. There is no state of high and low. It is a beautiful and harmonious structure of the social institution. The inspiration for all classes to remain aware of their respective functions is also hidden in this. After the description of the deeds of the Brahmins here is now the description of the functions of the Kshatriyas.
In front of Krishna is Arjun! The atmosphere is of the war. Arjun is a Kshatriya. The inspiration for prowess and for not fleeing from the battle is natural for the occasion. In any case the tradition of the Kshatriyas has also been so. In the Indian traditions many examples can be found where even when confronted with extremely adverse circumstances, there was no fleeing from the battlefield. With full enthusiasm, splendour, high spirit and valour the war was faced. The inner energy, splendour is the main weapon for this, which is earned by remaining firm on one's values, traditions and virtuous character. It becomes a strong basis for heroism and for remaining steadfast towards duty. No great impatience, or restlessness, but skilfulness in work. Impatience and anguish reduces the skillfulness in work and also leads to loss of energy. One's resources should be used not just for oneself, not for evil deeds, not for suppressing or torturing anyone but for fulfilling the necessities of the needy. To give charity liberally is part of the nature of the Kshatriyas and it should remain so. The inclination for governance is also found in the nature of the Kshatriyas. But this disposition should be utilized with discrimination. The attitude should be to govern by giving due respect to the values, morality, righteousness and justice. In the present day perspective it has become extremely imperative to understand and accept such inspirations from the Gita. That is why the Gita is a fully authoritative and relevant scripture of today. On the touchstone of every aspect, circumstance and present-day need it has been examined, evaluated and found to be befitting.