Section XXIII - Arjuna's Battle Hymn to Goddess Durga, Krishna's Blessing
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section XXIII 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:
On the eve of battle, Krishna advised Arjuna to seek the blessings of Durga for defeating his foes, prompting Arjuna to recite a powerful hymn praising the goddess. Arjuna praised Durga for her various attributes and sought her help in gaining victory on the battlefield. Impressed by Arjuna's devotion, Durga appeared before him and assured him of victory, stating that even the wielder of the thunderbolt would not be able to defeat him. After receiving Durga's blessings, Arjuna and Krishna blew their conches and prepared for battle with renewed confidence. Those who recite this hymn are said to be protected from various dangers, including enemies, snakes, and thieves, and are promised victory in all their endeavors.
Arjuna's prayer to Durga reflects his faith in her as the source of strength and protection, seeking her aid in the upcoming battle against his enemies. Durga's appearance and assurance of victory serve as a divine validation of Arjuna's devotion and determination to fight for righteousness. The hymn not only invokes Durga's blessings but also emphasizes the importance of righteousness, modesty, and devotion in achieving success and prosperity in life. The story highlights the power of faith and devotion in overcoming obstacles and gaining divine assistance in times of need. Ultimately, it is a tale of the triumph of good over evil, with Arjuna's unwavering faith leading him to victory on the battlefield with Krishna by his side.
Full English translation:
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Section XXIII, 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 XXIII:
What hymn did Arjuna recite on the eve of battle?
Arjuna recited a hymn to the goddess Durga, seeking victory in battle.
What did Durga promise Arjuna after hearing his hymn?
Durga promised Arjuna that he would conquer his foes and have Narayana's aid.
What benefits did Arjuna gain from reciting the hymn?
Arjuna gained protection from enemies, success in disputes, and victory in battle.
Daily life: Arjuna's Battle Hymn to Goddess Durga, Krishna's Blessing:
The story emphasizes the importance of seeking divine support and having faith during challenges, much like Arjuna did by reciting a hymn to Durga before battle, showing a blend of devotion and readiness for action. In daily life, this translates to approaching difficulties with a blend of preparation and a positive mindset, believing in one's abilities or a higher power for support. Before tackling any challenge, it's beneficial to center oneself through a personal ritual, be it meditation, prayer, or setting intentions, which mirrors Arjuna's act of cleansing and devotion.
The narrative also highlights the power of words and intentions. By vocalizing his respect and seeking Durga’s assistance, Arjuna not only prepared himself internally but also aligned external forces in his favor. Similarly, in our lives, expressing our intentions or goals openly can sometimes garner unexpected support from our surroundings, including people who might help us achieve our objectives. The story underscores that victories are achieved not just through personal strength but through the confluence of preparation, faith, and external support.
Lastly, the assurance of victory given by Durga to Arjuna teaches us that having faith in positive outcomes can bolster our confidence and determination. In every challenge, maintaining a positive outlook and believing in a favorable resolution can propel us forward, reducing fear and doubt. Just as the hymn protected Arjuna, maintaining a positive mindset can shield us from negativity and foster success in our endeavors.