Acharya Prashant explains that in the second chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, Shri Krishna employs various means to motivate Arjun based on Arjun's current state and capacity. When Arjun fails to grasp the highest spiritual truths regarding the soul and the nature of life and death, Shri Krishna lowers the level of the discourse to appeal to Arjun's sense of social standing and duty. He reminds Arjun of his identity as a warrior, warning him that retreating would lead to infamy, which is worse than death for a man of honor. This shift demonstrates the necessity for a teacher to adapt their message to the listener's eligibility and understanding, even if it means using worldly arguments like reputation or the promise of heaven to encourage righteous action.
