atha mohāt andhasaḥ pravṛttaḥ lokān hantum icchāmi tad eva me rocate

ahaṃ (I) andhasaḥ (blind) mohāt (due to delusion) pravṛttaḥ (influenced) lokān (the worlds) hantum (to destroy) icchāmi (desire) tad (that) eva (alone) me (to me) rocate (appears right)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): In his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, Śaṅkarācārya interprets this verse as an expression of the deluded mind, where Arjuna's desire to kill is driven by ignorance of his true nature. According to Śaṅkara, the non-dual reality of Brahman-ātman is obscured by the veil of avidyā, leading to a mistaken identification with the ego and a corresponding desire to harm others. This verse highlights the need for self-inquiry and the realization of one's true identity as ātman, which is ultimately identical with Brahman. As Śaṅkara notes in his commentary on the Brahma Sutras, the knowledge of Brahman-ātman identity is the means to overcome such delusion and attain liberation. In this context, Arjuna's statement serves as a poignant reminder of the human condition, where ignorance and ego-centricity can lead to harm and suffering, and the importance of seeking knowledge of the ultimate reality.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, views this verse as an expression of Arjuna's existential crisis, where his duty as a warrior conflicts with his personal feelings of compassion and empathy. According to Rāmānuja, Arjuna's desire to kill is a manifestation of his bondage to the cycle of karma, and his inability to see the divine presence in all beings. This verse underscores the importance of devotion to Īśvara, who is the ultimate reality and the source of all existence. By surrendering to Īśvara and recognizing the inherent dependence of the jīva on the divine, one can overcome the limitations of the ego and attain a state of selfless love and service. As Rāmānuja notes, the knowledge of the divine nature of all beings is essential for overcoming the illusion of separation and achieving liberation.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures on the Bhagavad Gītā, interprets this verse as a powerful commentary on the human condition, where our desires and actions are often driven by ignorance and a limited perspective. According to Vivekānanda, Arjuna's statement represents the universal human tendency to prioritize our own interests and desires over the well-being of others. However, as we grow in awareness and understanding, we come to recognize the interconnectedness of all existence and the inherent value of every human life. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of cultivating empathy, compassion, and self-awareness in our daily lives, and of recognizing the divine presence in all beings. As Vivekānanda notes, the practical application of this verse lies in its ability to inspire us to work towards the greater good, and to recognize our shared humanity, thereby overcoming the limitations of our individual egos and striving for a more just and harmonious world.

More from this source