Why is adhering to Dharma so critical in the spiritual path? Bhagawan reminds us by giving a very compelling example from the epics!

Divine teachings can be assimilated only when there is faith in Dharmic principles. When neglected, these teachings will turn into gramophone records, winding vainly, with no effect on hearts. The exhortations of the Gita and Arjuna’s reflections provide us with many insights. In spite of a close friendship with Krishna for 84 long years, Arjuna was not eligible to receive the divine Gita exhortation from Krishna. When did Arjuna acquire the eligibility to receive the teachings and the bliss from Krishna? He acquired it only when he totally surrendered himself, affirmed his faith in righteousness and God, and told Krishna, “To me, there is none other than You.” Only then did Arjuna’s heart become pure. When Krishna prompted him to go ahead in fighting the war, Arjuna deplored, saying, ‘Swami! After killing so many close relatives and multitudes of people, what is the use of the kingdom and comforts? I do not want this food of blood at all. Your proximity is all I want. My only object is to protect Dharma.’ Only after this firm declaration from Arjuna, Krishna had decided to preach to him the Gita.