Imperfection – In Gita Verse 1.29 My whole body is trembling, my hair is standing on end, my bow Gāṇḍīva is slipping from my hand, and my skin is burning.
Arjuna’s weakening is not due to a lack of interest in the war or a sudden inclination towards nonviolence. Rather, it is the profound realisation of the underlying foundation of violence within him – attachment. This attachment seizes his mind, manifesting as physical and emotional distress. His sadness reveals the core of violence rooted in his psyche, and in this moment of crisis, he becomes acutely aware of his attachments.
It is often surprising that the depths of our minds are revealed during moments of crisis. In ordinary times, we live routine lives, unable to perceive the deeper layers of our consciousness. However, extraordinary circumstances bring forth what is hidden within us, allowing us to confront our innermost thoughts and feelings.
Arjuna’s heightened self-awareness is evident as he describes the symptoms manifesting in his body. This indicates his desire to reconnect with his inner self. The sight of his friends and family members divided on the battlefield evokes profound pain and emotion. The prospect of losing loved ones is distressing, but the lack of mutual understanding among them is even more agonising.
Mutual understanding is the cornerstone of all relationships. Despite differing thoughts, desires, and goals, there is always a way to find common ground through mutual understanding and support. Each individual is inherently incomplete and imperfect. Without mutual support, growth in both the objective and subjective realms is unattainable.
Imperfection is not a derogatory term; it signifies a living, dynamic process. Perfection implies an end to growth and potential, leading to stagnation. In contrast, imperfection indicates that there is always room for growth and new experiences. Embracing imperfection and living it fully allows for continuous development and evolution.
The Vedas proclaim that we are “Amritasya Putrah” – children of immortality and divine potential. This means our potential is infinite and can never be fully exhausted. No matter how much we achieve, new opportunities and challenges will always arise, inviting us to explore further.
God does not represent perfection but rather the energy of continuous movement and growth. Each moment offers the opportunity to be fully present and engaged. Totality in one moment facilitates totality in the next. For instance, being fully angry allows one to be fully loving, as the totality in one emotion supports the totality in another.
The concept of God is not about perfection but about acceptance. God embraces imperfections wholly, while humans often reject and hide their flaws. The difference lies in acceptance and total engagement in each experience. When God dances, there is no separation between the dancer and the dance; when God loves, there is no distinction between the lover and the love. Humans, however, often remain detached and fearful, never fully immersing themselves in any experience.
Imperfection is a testament to life’s dynamic nature. Trees, birds, skies – everything is imperfect, yet this imperfection is a celebration of life. When our focus is on our physical, mental, and emotional states, it indicates that we are not attempting to alter the objective world but rather striving to live in the moment and become aware of our emotions and mental limitations. This awareness reflects a willingness to work on these aspects. Arjuna’s description of his trembling body, standing hair, slipping bow, and burning skin is not an admission of weakness but a courageous acknowledgment of his unconscious challenges. By confronting these challenges, he can fulfil his duty and the assignment given by the Universe.
Arjuna turns to Krishna not as a weak individual but as a courageous soul willing to face and work through his inner turmoil. This act of seeking guidance and support from Krishna exemplifies his bravery and determination to overcome his unconscious limitations and fulfil his destiny.
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