The Bhagavad-gita has two endings based on
the two nested conversations that comprise its narrative. The outer, framing
conversation is at Hastinapura between Sanjaya and Dhritarashtra – Sanjaya
narrates to the blind king the events happening on the battlefield of
Kurukshetra. The inner, central conversation is at battlefield between Krishna
and Arjuna – the Lord playing the role of a charioteer answers the questions of
his friend who has been overwhelmed by the prospect of fighting a fratricidal
war.
The inner conversation ends with Arjuna’s
declaration (18.73) that his illusion has been dispelled and his memory,
restored – and being free from doubts he is now ready to carry out Krishna’s
will. The outer conversation ends with Sanjaya’s declaration (18.78) that where
the bow-wielding Arjuna is united with the supremely mystical Lord, there will
manifest morality, victory and prosperity.
These two endings focus respectively on
inner enlightenment and outer attainment. Arjuna is freed from the confusion
that had overwhelmed him, and Sanjaya declares that such an enlightened and
determined Arjuna is sure to attain victory in the upcoming war. While the
focus of attention for both these speakers is different, internal and external
respectively, a common theme links their statements. That common theme is the
harmonization of the human will with the divine will. Arjuna’s statement
conveys that the removal of illusions and doubts, as brought about by the
Gita’s message, inspires us to become resolute instruments of the divine,
irrespective of external obstacles. And Sanjaya’s statement conveys that such
harmonization, as conveyed by Arjuna’s uplifted bow, which represents the
soul’s readiness to do God’s will, results in outer success too.
Thus, the Gita’s two endings demonstrate
the universally desirable end for all human beings – striving for inner harmony
with Krishna and thereby contributing successfully in the outer world.
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