1-13: The Kurus, and Duryodhan's Diplomacy

King Dhritarashtra inquired about the battle (1). Sanjay informed him that Duryodhan, his son, was preparing for war (2) by approaching his martial guru and inspiring him to fight without leniency (3).

Duryodhan first points out the prowess of the enemy (4-6), then glorifies his own army (7-9). He concludes that he will be victorious (10) if everyone fights with their fullest concentration and cooperation (11).

Grandfather Bheeshma responds to Duryodhan's speech by blowing his conchshell (12), thus initiating the Kuru battle-cry (13).

14-26: The Pandavas' Confidence

The Pandava Army responds by blowing their conchshells (14), beginning with Krishna and Arjun (15), and followed by the other heroes (16-18). A ferocious uproar results, shattering the hearts of the Kurus (19).

Arjun then takes up his bow (20), yet asks not to charge into war, but to stop halfway between the two armies (21-22), that he may observe his opponent (23). Krishna drives the chariot as Arjun ordered (24), stopping it directly in front of Arjun's Grandfather and Guru (25). Seeing his dear friends and relatives in the opposing army overwhelmed Arjun in lamentation (26).

27-29: Arjun Overwhelmed by Compassion

Overwhelmed with grief (27), Arjun experiences severe emotional reactions. His mouth dries (28), and his body shakes (29).

30-35: "No Happiness From This War"

Arjun felt it was a unwinnable war as every outcome would bring misery (30). Victory would require killing his dear family (31), a price far outweighing any kingdom's pleasure (32-35).

36: "It Is Sinful"

Arjun felt nothing good could result from the war, because it is sinful to kill one's family, under any circumstance (36).

37-43: "It Will Destroy Family & Society"

The sinful result of the war would be destruction of family (37-38). Destroying family destroys religion and invites irreligion (39). Irreligious values denigrate women, resulting in promiscuity and unwanted children (40). Unwanted children create a living hell (41), and destroy social sanity (42). Those who destroy families are punished in hell (43).

44-46: Arjun Decides Not to Fight

Arjun exclaims, "Before engaging in this selfish sin (44) I would prefer to be killed by Duryodhan, unresisting (45)." Arjun then cast aside his bow in sank into grief (46)