Avoiding Confrontation

Vedic culture prescribes a variety of options before one even begins to consider employing some level of aggression or violence. People often criticise Krishna for inciting Arjuna to fight in the Kuruksetra battle, positing that a nonviolent approach would be more in line with the spirituality He was presenting. A closer look, however, reveals that Krishna exhausted all other means of resolution before resorting to violence. That violence should be the last expression of assertiveness is illustrated by the exhaustive peace efforts that precede it.

Sama (Conciliation) – first one must try to build bridges and see if an amicable agreement can be reached. When the Kauravas had usurped the kingdom of the Pandavas, Krishna came as a messenger and encouraged a settlement by which both families could reside together in harmony. He encouraged them to forget the past, and hoped the Kauravas would be won over by an amicable presentation in agreeable terms.

Dama (Compensation) - if straightforward arguments are unsuccessful, one may present the case in diplomatic terms and ‘sell’ the idea to the other party. People are attracted by what’s in it for them, and on that basis, one can encourage someone towards a decision that has much broader and noble benefits. For example, when He went as a messenger of peace, Krishna suggested to the Kauravas that having allies like the Pandavas would put them in an invincible position in terms of global influence.

Bheda (Influence) – if such logical arguments are unsuccessful, one may resort to trickery or subtle influence to bring about peace. This may involve dividing the inimical party in order to reduce their influence – as the dictum says, “Divide and conquer.” Krishna tried to influence the Kauravas by suggesting that since one person’s obstinacy would destroy the entire Kuru clan, it is entirely reasonable to forsake that person (Duryodhana) for a higher good.

Danda (Action) – when all such means fail, one may well have to resort to force and physical aggression. Krishna warned the Kauravas that the Pandavas were a formidable alliance who were ready for a trial of arms. He explained that they would be quite competent to soundly defeat the Kauravas. When there was no other choice, Krishna fully encouraged the Pandavas to resolve the situation via the battle in Kuruksetra.