Bhagavad Gita 18.43 शौर्यं तेजो धृतिर्दाक्ष्यं युद्धे

Bhagavad Gita 18.43 — word by word

Explanation

Valour, vigour, steadfastness, resourcefulness, not running away in battle, generosity and the bearing of a leader — these are the natural work of a kshatriya, arising from that nature. They describe a person whose energy turns outward to protect, organise and stand firm for others.

This verse speaks directly to Arjuna, who in chapter 1 wanted to lay down his bow. Not fleeing from battle (apalāyana) is listed as part of his own nature, so turning away would be a betrayal of himself. Shankara explains īśvara-bhāva as the disposition to rule and protect those under one's care. Tilak reads the list as the qualities of a capable public leader who acts for the welfare of society, and Gandhi took courage and generosity as virtues every satyagrahi must cultivate, even without weapons.

भावार्थ

शूरवीरता, तेज, धैर्य, कार्य में कुशलता, युद्ध में पीठ न दिखाना, उदारता से दान देना और प्रजा की रक्षा करने वाला स्वामीभाव — ये सब क्षत्रिय के स्वभाव से उत्पन्न होने वाले स्वाभाविक कर्म हैं।

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