Section CLXX - Battlefield Brilliance: Bhishma's Tale of Pandava Warriors and Arjuna's Unmatched Skill
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CLXX 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:
Bhishma, in his narration to Dhritarashtra, praises the prowess and strength of the Pandavas in the battle. He describes Yudhishthira as a mighty warrior who will glide through the battlefield like a blazing fire, while Bhimasena is said to be equal to eight Rathas, possessing superhuman strength. The twins, Nakula and Sahadeva, are also highlighted as skilled warriors, equal in beauty to the twin Asvins and filled with great energy. Bhishma emphasizes the high moral character and ascetic austerities followed by the Pandava brothers, making them formidable opponents on the battlefield. He forewarns that a collision with them would not be desirable, as each of them alone could potentially slay all the kings of the earth.
Bhishma further praises Arjuna, known as Gudakesha, as unparalleled in battle, with none in both armies being his equal. He describes Arjuna's divine chariot with the ape banner, his celestial bow Gandiva, and his invincible armor and weapons obtained from various celestial beings. Bhishma recounts Arjuna's past feats, including defeating a thousand Danavas single-handedly, showcasing his incomparable skill and might in warfare. He also highlights the presence of Krishna as Arjuna's charioteer, emphasizing the unbeatable combination of Arjuna's prowess and Krishna's support.
Bhishma warns Dhritarashtra that neither himself nor his preceptor, Drona, can face Arjuna in battle, as the son of Kunti is capable of showering arrowy storms that can decimate their forces. He underscores Arjuna's youth, skill, and determination, contrasting it with their own age and weariness. Bhishma's words instill fear in the kings, as they remember Arjuna's past victories and the thought of facing him and Krishna in the upcoming battle. The Pandavas, especially Arjuna, are portrayed as invincible warriors, destined to overpower their enemies and emerge victorious in the impending conflict.
Full English translation:
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Section CLXX, 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 CLXX:
What is the significance of the sons of Pandu in the battle?
They are mighty Rathas and Atirathas, possessing superhuman strength and prowess.
Who is described as a formidable warrior among the Pandavas?
Arjuna, with Vasudeva as his ally, is unmatched in battle skills.
Why is a collision with the sons of Pandu not desirable?
Remembering past sufferings, they will exterminate enemies with fierce might in battle.
Daily life: Battlefield Brilliance: Bhishma's Tale of Pandava Warriors and Arjuna's Unmatched Skill:
From the tale of the might and valor of the Pandavas, we can glean important lessons for our daily lives. First, the dedication and hard efforts of the Pandavas, reflected through their rigorous training and austerities, underscore the significance of hard work and perseverance. This teaches us that to excel in our fields and face life's battles, preparation and continuous improvement are key.
The Pandavas' ability to overcome adversities, such as the injustices and challenges they faced, highlights resilience's value. Life will inevitably throw obstacles in our path, but it's our reaction and resilience that determine the outcome. By embracing challenges and using them as fuel to push forward, we can emerge stronger.
Their unity and mutual support also serve as a reminder of the power of collaboration and standing by each other in difficult times. Whether it's in a family, among friends, or within a professional team, sticking together and supporting each other amplifies our strengths and makes us more formidable.
Finally, the Pandavas' adherence to their dharma, or righteous path, despite the trials, teaches us the importance of integrity and ethics. By staying true to our values and principles, we navigate life with honor and can face ourselves with pride, regardless of the external outcome.
Incorporating these values—hard work, resilience, unity, and integrity—into our daily lives can profoundly impact our journey, driving us toward success and fulfillment on both personal and professional fronts.