Teachings 11 & 15 The Bhagavad-Gita

For these teachings, I will write down the question I came up with while reading and try to answer it as I keep on reading.

-Why is Lord Krishna keep on persuading Arjuna to kill? Or does killing have some kind of other meaning?

What I think, is that Krishna is telling Arjuna to kill all his doubts, his sense. Since war represents life, the enemy or the “cousin” probably represents the feelings.

-Why was Arjuna chosen to get the privilege of seeing the initiate form of Lord Krishna?

It is probably because Arjuna has the heart to care for others, the love towards others before thinking about himself.

“Your mind full of love,” (p.107) “Not through sacred lore, penances, charity, or sacrificial rites can I be seen in for that you saw me.” (p.108)

-What does the tree mentioned in teaching 15 represent?

The tree represents the desire that exists in our heart, I think. It talked about how the roots are deep in, which might mean that desire is something that is hard to get rid of.

“Nourished by nature’s qualities, budding with sense objects;…..Cut down this tree that has such deep roots with the sharp ax of detachment.” (p.123)

-What duality is Krishna talking about?

I couldn’t find the precise text that indicated the answer to this question. However, I believe the duality Krishna is talking about, is the two sides all people have. The bad and the good side of one.

-Why does the Lord go to the living world.

In order to teach about the true insight and how he is the supreme good.

“Lord of All, I see no end, or middle or beginning to your totality.” (p.99) “Arjuna, thus I have taught this most secret tradition; realizing it, one has understanding and his purpose is fulfilled.” (p.126)