In this Video Podcast we will begin to relate the teachings of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita. We will discuss the teachings of the first three verses of chapter one.
As we begin to relate the teachings of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, we need to have a brief understanding of its background.
King Dhritarashtra (the blind king) had 100 sons of which Duryodhana was the eldest. Dhritarashtra had a brother by the name of Pandu who had 5 sons who were named as follows. Yudhistira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeo. Pandu and his 5 sons are known as the Pandavas and Drishrashta and his 100 sons are known as the Kauravas.
After King Pandu had died, his brother Dhritarashtra (who was blind) ruled the kingdom as the sons of Pandu were too young. As the Pandavas were growing, Duryodhana became very jealous of his cousins because they were so righteous. As a result, Duryodhana devised a plan to take the kingdom for the Pandavas who were the rightful heir to the throne.
As the Pandavas grew, they asked not for the entire kingdom back, but rather asked only for half the kingdom. If not, they said they would settle for either 5 towns, 5 villages, or even 5 small homes. Duryodhana said that he would not give them as much dirt that can pass through the eye of a needle without waging war. As a result (not wanting to engage in war) the Pandavas realized that they had to take a stand for dharma (righteousness) and began to prepare for battle.
Duryodhana asked for Lord Krishna's army to fight against the Pandavas. Arjuna did not want the Lord's army, but instead, he only wanted Lord Krishna to be with him.