Loading...
Current layer: Translation
Chapter 2 • Verse 36
The Yoga of Knowledge
MEANING & CONTEXT
Krishna delivers the final psychological blow: enemies will speak 'avācya-vādān bahūn' (many unspeakable words)—insults so harsh they shouldn't be uttered but will be. They'll mock your 'sāmarthyam' (ability), questioning not your moral choice but your competence. For a warrior whose identity equals martial prowess, this hits the core. Krishna asks: what could be more painful? The teaching: distinguish mockery from 'ahitāḥ' (ill-wishers who don't know you) from critique by people you respect. Enemy mockery might mean you're on the right path. Mentor mockery means reconsider.
Explore Human Experiences
How this ancient wisdom applies to your daily life
Key Takeaway
When people mock your competence, it stings—especially when it targets your core identity. Krishna's insight: distinguish 'ahitāḥ' (enemies who don't know you) from people you respect. Enemy mockery is noise—endure it, don't internalize it. Mentor critique is signal—take it seriously. The internet amplifies 'bahūn' (many voices), but quantity doesn't equal quality. If enemies mock you, you might be doing something right. If mentors do, reconsider.
Personal Reflection
Who's mocking your abilities—'ahitāḥ' (strangers) or people you respect? How would you respond differently if you could clearly separate noise from signal?
Shortcuts
←/→ Verses
↑/↓ Layers