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My heart is overpowered by the taint of pity; my mind is confused as to duty. I ask Thee: Tell me decisively what is good for me. I am Thy disciple. Instruct me who has taken refuge in Thee.

My very nature is struck down by the fault of faint-heartedness, and my mind is confused about dharma. I ask you: tell me for certain what is truly good. I am your disciple; I have come to you for refuge; teach me.

This is the turning point of the opening scene. Arjuna diagnoses his own condition: his nature is overpowered by kārpaṇya, a poverty or meanness of spirit, and his mind is confused about dharma, the right course of conduct. He asks not for comfort but for what is truly good (śreyas), and asks that it be stated with certainty. Then he formally becomes a disciple and takes refuge. From this verse the relationship changes from charioteer and friend to teacher and student, and the teaching proper becomes possible.