Verse 2.4

Verse 2.4: Arjuna spake—“How shall I, in battle, O Slayer of Madhu, assail with the arrows Bhishma and Drona, worthy of worship as they are, O Smiter of foes? (30)

Commentary called Jnaneshwari by Jnaneshwar:

“Lord, now hear. This long talk is indeed not necessary; first of all do consider if this could be called a war. This is no war but a crime, despicable if committed, for thereby, we would be openly slaughtering our preceptors. Are parents to be adored, served, kept entirely pleased and then to be killed with our own hands? The saints are to be bowed to, and if possible to be adored. Should they also be spoken to in slanderous terms instead? Similarly these our family preceptors are always to be adored; especially my debt to Bhishmacharya, and Drona is immense. How should I directly destroy them in the battle,-those about whom I cannot think ill even in a dream? Fie upon me that I should glory in utilising that art of handling weapons in killing the very preceptors who taught that art to me. I, Arjuna, am the disciple of Drona who taught me completely the art of using arms: Should I repay the debt of my gratitude to him by killing him? Arjuna added, “Should I act like Bhasmasur (bhasmāsura) by playing false to the revered Master through whose favour I secured all the boons?”