Bhagavad Gita Chapter 2, Verse 3
क्षुद्रं हृदयदौर्बल्यं त्यक्त्वोत्तिष्ठ परन्तप ॥ ३ ॥
naitat tvayy upapadyate
kṣudraṁ hṛdaya-daurbalyaṁ
tyaktvottiṣṭha paran-tapa
Krishna continues to address Arjuna’s condition directly and firmly. He calls Arjuna’s hesitation a form of weakness (hridaya-daurbalya) and makes it clear that such a state is not appropriate for someone of Arjuna’s strength and character.
Arjuna is not being corrected for compassion itself, but for the loss of clarity and courage caused by attachment. Krishna reminds him of his true nature as a capable warrior and urges him to rise above this emotional confusion. The instruction is not philosophical yet—it is a call to regain composure and act according to one’s duty.
This verse shows that before higher knowledge can be understood, a person must first overcome inner weakness and indecision.
This verse highlights the importance of mental strength in moments of responsibility. When faced with difficult situations, individuals may experience hesitation or self-doubt. However, allowing such weakness to dominate can prevent necessary action.
In leadership and administration, the ability to recognize and overcome inner weakness is essential. Clarity of role and firmness in action are often required to deal with complex and demanding situations.