256. Do as You Wish
‘ T he existence’ doesn’t expect us to behave in a particular manner. It gives us the freedom to make our own choices. But the consequences of the choices we make are subject to the natural principles enumerated in the Bhagavad Gita. The same is reflected when Krishna says, “Thus, I have explained to you this knowledge that is more secret than all secrets. Ponder over it deeply and then do as you wish” (18.63). This verse dispels the notion that Krishna is compelling Arjuna to fight. Instead, at the end of the Gita Krishna offered him the freedom to choose. This verse comes in the background of Krishna telling Arjuna, “Because of ahankaar if you think ‘I will not fight’, your resolution will be in vain. Your nature will compel you to fight” (18.59). Another aspect is that Krishna always told us to drop our desires and wishes, but here he says do as you wish. These aspects need to be kept in mind to understand this verse. Firstly, ahankaar ( aham-karta or I am doer) is responsib...