Bhagavad Gita 1.31 — Nimittani Cha Pashyami — Word-by-Word Meaning
श्रीमद्भगवद्गीता १.३१ — निमित्तानि च पश्यामि
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
निमित्तानि
nimittāni
omens; signs
च
cha
and
पश्यामि
paśhyāmi
I see
विपरीतानि
viparītāni
adverse; inauspicious; contrary
केशव
keśhava
O Keshava (Krishna)
न
na
not
च
cha
and; also
श्रेयः
śhreyaḥ
good; benefit; welfare
अनुपश्यामि
anupaśhyāmi
I foresee; I perceive
हत्वा
hatvā
by killing; from slaying
स्वजनम्
sva-janam
one's own kinsmen
आहवे
āhave
in battle
Complete Translation
And I see adverse omens, O Keshava; nor do I foresee any good from slaying my own kinsmen in battle.
Origin & History
Source: Bhagavad Gita Chapter 1, Verse 31
Author: Sage Veda Vyasa (Mahabharata, Bhishma Parva)
Period: Ancient (text compiled c. 5th–2nd century BCE)
In the first chapter, Arjuna Vishada Yoga, having seen his kinsmen on both sides, Arjuna's resolve crumbles. Addressing Krishna as Keshava, he confesses that he perceives only evil omens and no good in slaying his own people. Sanjaya narrates this growing despair to Dhritarashtra as the prelude to Krishna's teaching.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Arjuna expressing in Bhagavad Gita 1.31?▼
Arjuna tells Krishna that he sees only inauspicious omens and can foresee no good arising from killing his own relatives in battle. It expresses his mounting grief and his conviction that such a war could bring no real benefit.
Why does Arjuna call Krishna 'Keshava' here?▼
'Keshava' is a name of Krishna, traditionally explained as the one with beautiful locks or the slayer of the demon Keshi. Arjuna addresses Krishna reverently even while pouring out his doubts, showing his trust in the Lord amid his confusion.
What is the meaning of 'shreya' in this verse?▼
'Shreya' means the true good or lasting welfare, as opposed to mere pleasure or short-term gain. Arjuna says he sees no 'shreya' in the war, a theme Krishna later develops by teaching the distinction between the pleasant (preya) and the truly good (shreya).
Ready to start chanting?
See Benefits & How to Chant →