Arjuna said: If you consider knowledge superior to action, oh Janārdana, why do you order me to perform this terrible action, oh Keśava?

Arjuna expresses the apparent contradiction perceived in Krishna’s teachings. In the previous chapter, buddhi-yoga was glorified as superior; now action is being ordered.

The question reveals incomplete understanding: there is no opposition between jñāna and karma, but authentic knowledge purifies action. Buddhi is not mere intellect but spiritual discernment — the faculty that perceives reality beyond appearances. Janārdana and Keśava are names revealing aspects of Krishna as sustainer of beings and beauty itself.