Shloka 40
Vyāsa’s Vision, the Power of Bhāgavatam, and the Arrest of Aśvatthāmā
सूत उवाच एवं परीक्षता धर्मं पार्थ: कृष्णेन चोदित: । नैच्छद्धन्तुं गुरुसुतं यद्यप्यात्महनं महान् ॥ ४० ॥
sūta uvāca evaṁ parīkṣatā dharmaṁ pārthaḥ kṛṣṇena coditaḥ naicchad dhantuṁ guru-sutaṁ yadyapy ātma-hanaṁ mahān
सूत उवाच एवं परीक्षता धर्मं पार्थ: कृष्णेन चोदित: । नैच्छद्धन्तुं गुरुसुतं यद्यप्यात्महनं महान् ॥ ४० ॥
Arjuna was a great soul undoubtedly, which is proved here also. He is encouraged herein personally by the Lord to kill the son of Droṇa, but Arjuna considers that the son of his great teacher should be spared, for he happens to be the son of Droṇācārya, even though he is an unworthy son, having done all sorts of heinous acts whimsically for no one’s benefit.
FAQs
Because Ashvatthama was the son of Arjuna’s revered teacher Droṇācārya, and Arjuna—while weighing dharma under Kṛṣṇa’s guidance—hesitated to execute him despite his grievous sin.
This verse shows dharma is subtle and must be examined carefully; even when punishment seems justified, one must consider higher principles like respect for the guru, compassion, and Kṛṣṇa’s guidance.
Before reacting to wrongdoing, pause to evaluate the right course—balancing justice with compassion—especially when relationships, gratitude, or moral obligations complicate the decision.