A Short Note on Arjuna as a Semi-Divine Being

Abstract

The article A Short Note on Arjuna as a Semi-Divine Being by Kevin McGrath examines Arjuna’s ambiguous ontological status in the Mahābhārata and related texts. Traditionally seen as a heroic human devotee of Krishna, the article highlights references—particularly in the Pāṇḍava Gītā and epic narrative—that identify Arjuna as Nara, one half of the divine duo Nara-Nārāyaṇa. McGrath argues that this designation elevates Arjuna to a semi-divine status: neither fully mortal nor fully divine, but occupying a liminal position that challenges strict categorizations.