26. In Harmony with Swa-Dharma
K rishna explains swa-dharma (own nature or paradigm) (2.31-2.37) and tells Arjuna that such an unsought battle (Kurukshetra) opens the door to heaven (2.32). Escaping from it would result in loss of swa-dharma , fame and would incur sin (2.33). This guidance given to Arjuna on the battlefield must be understood in its proper context. Krishna is talking about harmony and synergy with one’s swa-dharma and not about the war. Krishna finds disharmony between Arjuna’s swa-dharma and his thoughts, utterances and actions. He guides Arjuna towards harmonizing them. In the case of Arjuna, harmony is in fighting the battle as per his swa-dharma and disharmony is in avoiding the battle. In fact, harmony rules creation where the smallest particles like electrons, protons and neutrons to the biggest galaxies, planets and stars are in harmony. We enjoy our favourite music only when the radio and the radio station are in harmony (tune). There is no greater example of harmony th...