Verse 2.5

Verse 2.5: “For, it were better in this world to eat even the beggar’s crust, so I escape slaying the elders-and-preceptors-of great prowess (as they are); but having slain the elders-and-preceptors—(on ground, as may be urged, that they are) swayed by self-interest—I would be, right here, enjoying (merely) blood-stained enjoyments. (39)

Commentary called Jnaneshwari by Jnaneshwar:

I hear that the sea is deep, still and calm; it is only seemingly so, since it is often stormy, while Drona’s heart knows not even a particle of anger. The sky may be immeasurably high. But (its height) could be measured: But the heart of Drona is unfathomably deep. Ambrosia may get spoilt: perchance, thunderbolt could even be broken: but his (Drona’s) mental equanimity cannot be disturbed even by provoking him to wrath. A mother’s attachment is said to be the staunchest, and this might be entirely true. But in Drona exists motherly tenderness and love incarnate. He is the fountain source of affection and is a mine of all virtues, as also a limitless ocean of learning.” Arjuna continued, “Dronacharya is such a great person and is all kindness towards us. Pray, tell me how should we plan his destruction? That we should kill on the battle-field such (persons) and then enjoy the kingdom is a prospect which I cannot cherish from the bottom of my heart. This is such a dreadful deed, that begging would be preferable even to any enjoyments higher than those of a kingdom. O Shrihari, I should forsake the country or live in mountain caves rather than wield a weapon against him. How should I seek for enjoyments dipped in the blood coming out of such noble hearts pierced by sharp arrows? Of what avail would such blood-steeped enjoyment be? My mind does not, therefore, countenance such things.” When Arjuna had pleaded thus with Lord Krishna, Lord Krishna, although he heard it all, did not relish it. Partha got frightened at this and again said “O God, why do you not pay attention to what I say?”