Taking responsibility to help others choose wisely – After Krishna concludes the Bhagavad-gita’s message, he asks Arjuna a two-part question: Has he heard attentively? Have his illusions been dispelled? (18.72) This question reflects Krishna’s situational awareness and his concern for Arjuna. 

Situational awareness: Krishna and Arjuna are on a battlefield, with countless warriors waiting to spring into action. Though the armies from both sides restrained themselves while Krishna and Arjuna had their discussion, Arjuna could still have been distracted by the setting and especially by the impending war, which was by far his life’s most important war. Moreover, when Krishna had started speaking the Gita, Arjuna was emotionally overwhelmed and ethically conflicted, which too could have undermined his concentration. Hence Krishna’s enquiry. 

Concern for Arjuna: Krishna’s question was not perfunctory; he took his responsibility of guiding Arjuna so seriously that he was ready to repeat his message, partly or even wholly, if that’s what was necessary to help Arjuna get a clear understanding. Though Krishna had no intention of forcing his instruction on Arjuna (18.63), he nonetheless wanted to ensure that Arjuna had enough information and insight about the choices before him and their concomitant consequences. . 

When guiding others, we too need to ensure that they are equipped with the knowledge to choose wisely. That’s our part of the guiding process. After we have done our part diligently, if they choose unwisely, that’s up to them; they have the independence to do so and the responsibility to live with the consequences. But if we haven’t strived adequately to explain the merits and demerits of the choices before them, then that’s our responsibility, or rather, irresponsibility. 

Krishna demonstrates that guiding is not just about giving a brilliant discourse; it is about helping others choose well.  

One-sentence summary:

If those we guide don’t choose wisely, that’s their responsibility; if they don’t know enough to choose wisely, that’s our responsibility. 

Think it over: 

  • What does Krishna’s concluding question to Arjuna reflect?
  • In the guiding process, what is our responsibility?
  • How can you help those you guide better understand their choices?  

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18.72: O son of Prutha, O conqueror of wealth, have you heard this with an attentive mind? And are your ignorance and illusions now dispelled?

Taking responsibility to help others choose wisely

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