PLATE FIVE

Five thousand years ago, on the sacred field of Kuruksetra, in India,
the greatest battle in history was about to take place. On one side stood
the legions of Arjuna, the most valiant warrior of his day and the personal
friend of Lord Sri Krsna. Opposite them stood the vast military array of
Dhrtarastra, usurper of the throne, and father of the evil Duryodhana.
When Arjuna asked Krsna to draw his chariot between the two armies,
what Arjuna saw struck him with grief and paralyzed his will to fight:
among his enemies were close friends, relatives, and teachers. Bemoan-
ing his condition, Arjuna addressed his friend and charioteer: ‘‘My dear
Krsna, now I am confused about my duty and have lost all composure be-
cause of weakness. In this condition I am asking You to tell me clearly
what is best for me. Now I am Your disciple and a soul surrendered unto
You. Please instruct me.’’ Then Lord Krsna spoke the Bhagavaa-gitd for
Arjuna’s enlightenment. (pp. 82-89)
