Why did Indra not give Arjuna the weapon he gave to Karna?

In the Indian epic Mahabharata, the circumstances surrounding Indra's decision to give a divine weapon to Karna but not to Arjuna are rooted in the complexities of dharma (righteousness), favoritism, and the nature of the characters involved.

Indra's Favoritism

Despite Karna being the son of Kunti, the mother of Pandavas, Karna was raised by a charioteer and was aligned with the Kauravas. Indra, the king of the gods, had a personal grudge against Karna due to his arrogance and boasting about his abilities. Indra aimed to diminish Karna's power and thus approached him in disguise, asking for his divine armor and earrings, which made him invulnerable. Karna, adhering to his principles of generosity and honor, willingly gave them up.

Arjuna's Status

Arjuna was the favored son of Indra and a skilled warrior with a strong dharma. Indra's approach to Arjuna was different. Instead of simply giving him a weapon, he chose to test Arjuna's resolve and commitment. After proving himself through penance and determination, Indra ultimately provided Arjuna with the powerful weapon known as the Vajra or Indra's Bow. This act reflects the idea that greatness must be earned.

Thematic Elements

The contrast between Karna and Arjuna highlights themes of destiny, righteousness, and the moral complexities in the epic. Karna's tragic fate is tied to his choices and circumstances, while Arjuna's journey emphasizes his growth as a hero. Indra's actions reflect the intricate web of relationships and moral dilemmas that characterize the Mahabharata, illustrating how divine intervention interacts with human agency.

The Usage of Divine Weapons

Karna received a divine weapon that was usable only once, given in exchange for his divine armor (Kavach) and earrings (Kundal), which were immensely blurring causing earrings in the eyes of the attacking humans or animals. Karna utilized this weapon against the overpowering Ghatotkacha, the son of Bhima, and Arjuna's brother. As a result, Karna became invulnerable to Arjuna's attacks, showcasing the strategic and moral implications of these weapons.

Conclusion: The decision made by Indra regarding the distribution of the divine weapons to Karna and Arjuna underscores the broader themes of chivalry, honor, and the moral choices that characters make in the Mahabharata. These events not only shape the individual fates of Karna and Arjuna but also contribute to the epic's exploration of the complex relationships between divine intervention and human agency.