Section CXXIII - Bhishma's Advice to Duryodhana: Make Peace with Pandavas
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CXXIII including examples of moral lessons in daily life. The Maha-Bharata is one of the largest epics ever written containing roughly 100,000 Sanskrit verses. It deals with the legendary history of ancient India and contains a large number of interwoven tales.
Short summary of the chapter:
After a night of rest, all the kings, Pandavas and Kauravas, came to pay their respects to the grand old Kuru chief, Bhishma. Maidens showered him with sandalwood powder and flowers, creating a festive atmosphere. Bhishma, lying on a bed of arrows, asked for water, expressing his pain and agony from the wounds. Arjuna, the valiant warrior, then performed a miraculous feat by summoning a jet of pure, cool water for Bhishma to drink, much to the amazement of all present.
Bhishma praised Arjuna's skill and prowess, comparing him to the foremost beings in various categories. He urged Duryodhana to make peace with the Pandavas, highlighting the futility of continuing the war. Bhishma advised Duryodhana to offer half the kingdom to the Pandavas and let Yudhishthira return to Indraprastha in peace. However, Duryodhana, blinded by rage and pride, rejected Bhishma's wise counsel, refusing to heed his words despite their virtues.
Despite his own suffering from the arrow wounds, Bhishma remained steadfast and composed, attempting to bring about reconciliation and peace among the warring factions. His words of wisdom and plea for peace fell on deaf ears as Duryodhana remained unmoved by his grandfather's advice. Bhishma's final wish was for peace to prevail with his death, hoping that his sacrifice would lead to harmony among the rulers of the earth. Unfortunately, Duryodhana's stubbornness and refusal to listen to reason ultimately led to tragic consequences for all involved.
In the face of Bhishma's selfless sacrifice and wisdom, Duryodhana's obstinacy and refusal to make amends stand out as a tragic display of pride and folly. Bhishma's words of peace and reconciliation, delivered with great compassion and understanding, fell on deaf ears as Duryodhana refused to relent. It serves as a poignant reminder of the destructive power of ego and the importance of humility and compassion in resolving conflicts. Despite Bhishma's best efforts to bring about peace, the seeds of discord sown by Duryodhana's arrogance would eventually lead to catastrophic consequences for both sides in the war. The clash between wisdom and folly, compassion and pride, showcased in this interaction between Bhishma and Duryodhana, serves as a timeless lesson on the perils of misplaced aggression and the value of peaceful resolution.
Full English translation:
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Section CXXIII, online text
English translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli.
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Mahabharata (English Summary)
by Kisari Mohan Ganguli | ISBN-10: 8121505933
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FAQ of Mahabharata, Section CXXIII:
What was the reaction of the Kshatriyas towards Bhishma's condition?
All the kings, the Pandavas and the Dhartarashtras, stood in his presence.
How did Arjuna help ease Bhishma's pain?
Arjuna created a jet of pure water by shooting an arrow into the ground.
What did Bhishma advise Duryodhana to do?
Bhishma urged Duryodhana to make peace with the Pandavas.
How did Duryodhana respond to Bhishma's advice?
Duryodhana did not accept the peaceful words and refused to relent.
Daily life: Bhishma's Advice to Duryodhana: Make Peace with Pandavas:
The story shares a profound lesson on the importance of resolving conflicts and the value of wisdom and reconciliation over stubbornness and conflict. Bhishma, a revered and dying elder, makes a final plea for peace among the warring factions of the Pandava and Kaurava families. Despite his physical agony, he emphasizes the futility of continued hostility and urges for a resolution that would benefit both parties and preserve their kinship and lives. His words highlight the significance of listening to wise counsel, acting with compassion, and seeking harmony over prolonging disputes.
In daily life, this narrative can inspire us to prioritize peace and understanding in our interactions. When faced with conflicts, whether in personal relationships or professional settings, the story encourages us to seek counsel from those we respect, to listen with an open heart, and to choose paths that promote reconciliation. It reminds us that stubbornness and revenge can lead to unnecessary suffering and loss, whereas compromise and forgiveness can pave the way for healing and unity.
The tale also underscores the role of humility and the willingness to relent for the greater good, teaching us to consider the long-term well-being of all involved over our immediate desires or pride. By embracing these principles, we can foster healthier relationships, create more supportive communities, and contribute to a more peaceful world.