Bhagavad Gita Chapter 1, Verse 3: Duryodhana's Assessment
Duryodhana assesses the Pandava army, highlighting their strength and the strategic deployment of their forces under the command of Dhrishtadyumna.
Chapter 1: Arjuna Vishada Yoga
Verse 3
Sanskrit (Devanagari)
पश्यैतां पाण्डुपुत्राणामाचार्य महतीं चमूम्। व्यूढां द्रुपदपुत्रेण तव शिष्येण धीमता ॥
Transliteration (IAST)
paśyaitāṁ pāṇḍuputrāṇāmācārya mahatīṁ camūm। vyūḍhāṁ drupadaputreṇa tava śiṣyeṇa dhīmatā ॥
Translation
Behold, O teacher, this vast army of the sons of Pandu, arrayed by the son of Drupada, your intelligent disciple.
The Shloka
Sanskrit (Devanagari): पश्यैतां पाण्डुपुत्राणामाचार्य महतीं चमूम्। व्यूढां द्रुपदपुत्रेण तव शिष्येण धीमता ॥
Transliteration (IAST): paśyaitāṁ pāṇḍuputrāṇāmācārya mahatīṁ camūm। vyūḍhāṁ drupadaputreṇa tava śiṣyeṇa dhīmatā ॥
Translation: Behold, O teacher, this vast army of the sons of Pandu, arrayed by the son of Drupada, your intelligent disciple.
Explanation
Context
This verse is part of the opening chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, titled “Arjuna Vishada Yoga” or “The Yoga of Arjuna’s Despair.” Duryodhana, the eldest of the Kauravas, is addressing his teacher, Dronacharya, on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Before the commencement of the war, Duryodhana surveys the Pandava army and points out its strengths to Dronacharya, likely intending to motivate him and highlight the challenge ahead. This verse sets the stage for the impending conflict and underscores the familial and teacher-student relationships intertwined within the opposing armies.
Word-by-Word Meaning
- paśya: behold, see
- etām: this
- pāṇḍuputrāṇām: of the sons of Pandu
- ācārya: O teacher (Dronacharya)
- mahatīm: vast, great
- camūm: army
- vyūḍhām: arrayed, arranged in military formation
- drupadaputreṇa: by the son of Drupada (Dhrishtadyumna)
- tava: your
- śiṣyeṇa: by the disciple
- dhīmatā: intelligent, wise
Deeper Understanding
In this verse, Duryodhana is attempting to instill a sense of urgency and caution in Dronacharya. By pointing out the vastness and strategic arrangement of the Pandava army, he subtly reminds Dronacharya of the formidable opposition they face. The mention of Dhrishtadyumna, Drupada’s son and Dronacharya’s own disciple, adds a layer of complexity. Dhrishtadyumna was destined to kill Dronacharya, a fact known to both of them, making Duryodhana’s statement a veiled reminder of this prophecy. This verse highlights the themes of duty (dharma), familial ties, and the inevitable consequences of actions (karma). Krishna, as the charioteer of Arjuna, is setting up the context for his teachings on dharma, karma, and the nature of reality.
Practical Application
This verse offers several lessons applicable to modern life:
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Awareness of Challenges: Duryodhana’s assessment of the Pandava army emphasizes the importance of being aware of the challenges we face. In any endeavor, whether it’s a career goal, a personal project, or a difficult relationship, it’s crucial to understand the obstacles and plan accordingly. Identifying potential pitfalls helps us prepare and strategize effectively.
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Recognizing Expertise: Duryodhana acknowledges Dhrishtadyumna’s intelligence and skill in military strategy. Similarly, we should recognize and respect the expertise of others. Seeking advice and learning from those with knowledge and experience can significantly improve our chances of success.
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Understanding Complex Relationships: The verse highlights the complex relationships between the characters – teacher and student, rivals, and family members. In our own lives, we navigate a web of relationships that can be both supportive and challenging. Understanding the dynamics of these relationships and acting with integrity is essential for maintaining harmony and achieving our goals.
Reflection
- How can you apply the principle of assessing challenges to your own life?
- In what areas of your life could you benefit from recognizing and seeking the expertise of others?
- How do you navigate complex relationships in your daily life, and how can you improve your approach?
Key Concepts
- Dharma: Duty and righteousness. Dronacharya’s duty to the Kauravas versus his affection for his students.
- Karma: The law of cause and effect. Dhrishtadyumna’s destiny to kill Dronacharya as a consequence of past actions.
- Awareness: The importance of assessing situations accurately before acting.
- Relationships: The complexities of human connections and their influence on our actions.
Navigation
← Previous: Chapter 1, Verse 2
Note: The next shloka will be available soon if not yet published.