Sanjaya said: O Dhritarashtra, subduer of foes! Having spoken thus, Arjuna, the conqueror of sleep, clearly declared to the all-pervading Lord Govinda, "I will not fight," and fell silent.
Commentary: 'Having spoken thus to Hrishikesha... he became silent'—Arjuna considered both his own position and that of the Lord, placing them side by side for reflection. Ultimately, he arrived at this conclusion: by engaging in war, at most he would gain a kingdom, honor, and renown in the world, yet the grief, anxiety, and sorrow within his heart would not be dispelled. Therefore, it seemed right to Arjuna not to fight at all.
Although Arjuna respects the Lord's words and indeed wishes to accept them, the idea of fighting does not sit rightly within him. Thus, Arjuna clearly and plainly states here only what feels right within himself: "I will not fight." Having thus plainly expressed his own view and decision to the Lord, there remained nothing more to say to Him; hence, he falls silent.
Connection: After Arjuna had clearly refused to fight, what transpired thereafter—this Sanjaya explains in the following verses.
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