Bhagavad Gita 2.7 — Karpanya-doshopahata-svabhavah — Word-by-Word Meaning
श्रीमद्भगवद्गीता २.७ — कार्पण्यदोषोपहतस्वभावः
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
कार्पण्यदोष
kārpaṇya-doṣha
the flaw of cowardice / faint-heartedness
उपहत
upahata
besieged, overcome
स्वभावः
sva-bhāvaḥ
nature
पृच्छामि
pṛichchhāmi
I am asking
त्वाम्
tvām
to you
धर्म
dharma
duty
संमूढ
sammūḍha
confused
चेताः
chetāḥ
in heart
यत्
yat
what
श्रेयः
śhreyaḥ
best, most beneficial
स्यात्
syāt
may be
निश्चितम्
niśhchitam
decisively
ब्रूहि
brūhi
tell
तत्
tat
that
मे
me
to me
शिष्यः
śhiṣhyaḥ
disciple
ते
te
your
अहम्
aham
I
शाधि
śhādhi
please instruct
माम्
mām
me
त्वाम्
tvām
unto you
प्रपन्नम्
prapannam
surrendered
Complete Translation
My very nature is overpowered by the taint of faint-heartedness; my mind is confused about my duty. I ask You: tell me decisively what is truly good for me. I am Your disciple; please instruct me, who have taken refuge in You.
Origin & History
Source: Bhagavad Gita Chapter 2, Verse 7
Author: Sage Veda Vyasa (Mahabharata, Bhishma Parva)
Period: Ancient (text compiled c. 5th–2nd century BCE)
In the second chapter, Sankhya Yoga, Arjuna's grief reaches its climax. Having refused to fight and sunk into despair, he finally recognises that he cannot resolve his crisis alone. In this verse he surrenders completely to Krishna as a disciple and begs for clear guidance, prompting Krishna to begin the central teaching of the Gita.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Bhagavad Gita 2.7 considered a turning point?▼
In this verse Arjuna stops arguing and surrenders. He admits his weakness, declares himself Krishna's disciple, and asks to be taught. This act of humble surrender is what transforms the conversation from Arjuna's lament into the divine instruction of the Gita.
What does 'karpanya-dosha' mean?▼
'Karpanya-dosha' refers to the flaw of faint-heartedness or miserly weakness — a petty, helpless state of mind. Arjuna confesses that his true nature has been overcome by this weakness, which is why he cannot think clearly about his duty.
What is the difference between shreyas and preyas?▼
Shreyas is that which is ultimately good and beneficial, even if difficult; preyas is that which is merely pleasant or agreeable. Arjuna specifically asks for shreyas — what is truly good for him — showing his readiness to receive higher guidance.
How can this verse help in daily life?▼
It teaches that genuine guidance comes when we set aside ego and approach a teacher or the Divine with humility. When confused, surrendering sincerely and asking for what is truly beneficial — rather than insisting on our own way — opens the path to clarity.
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