Section LXXIV - The Fear of Jayadratha in Battle with Arjuna
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section LXXIV 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:
Sanjaya recounts how Jayadratha, overwhelmed with sorrow and fear of being killed by Arjuna, sought protection from the other Kaurava warriors in the assembly. Duryodhana reassures Jayadratha, promising him the support of many powerful warriors in battle to protect him from Arjuna's wrath. Jayadratha then approaches Drona, seeking his guidance on how he compares to Arjuna in terms of proficiency in the science of arms. Drona acknowledges that Arjuna is superior due to his rigorous training and vows to protect Jayadratha in battle.
Drona advises Jayadratha not to fear Partha, emphasizing the importance of following the duties of his own order and reminding him of the temporary nature of life. He reassures Jayadratha that he will create a formation in battle that Arjuna will not be able to penetrate and urges him to focus on fulfilling his responsibilities as a Kshatriya. Drona's words give Jayadratha courage and determination to face Arjuna on the battlefield, while also reminding him of the transient nature of life and the importance of performing righteous deeds.
Jayadratha is comforted by Drona's words and sets his mind on the upcoming battle, gaining confidence in his abilities as a warrior and the support of his allies. The Kuru troops also feel emboldened, with the sounds of musical instruments and war cries filling the air as they prepare for the impending conflict. Jayadratha's fears are dispelled, and he is ready to face Arjuna in battle with the assurance of protection from Drona and the other Kaurava warriors.
The story highlights the themes of courage, duty, and the transient nature of life as Jayadratha prepares to face Arjuna in battle. Drona's guidance and reassurance instill confidence in Jayadratha, urging him to fulfill his responsibilities as a warrior and face his fears head-on. The impending battle between Jayadratha and Arjuna symbolizes the larger conflict between the Pandavas and Kauravas, demonstrating the importance of perseverance, righteousness, and the support of allies in times of crisis.
Full English translation:
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Section LXXIV, 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 LXXIV:
Who comforts Jayadratha when he fears for his life?
Duryodhana reassures Jayadratha that he will be protected by powerful warriors. Drona also promises to shield him in battle against Arjuna.
Why does Jayadratha fear for his life?
Jayadratha is terrified of Arjuna's vow to kill him. He seeks protection from Duryodhana and other warriors, feeling overwhelmed by fear and despair.
How does Drona reassure Jayadratha?
Drona acknowledges Arjuna's superior skills but promises to shield Jayadratha in battle. He reminds him of the impermanence of life and the importance of fulfilling one's duty.
Daily life: The Fear of Jayadratha in Battle with Arjuna:
Incorporating the essence of the story into daily life revolves around confronting fears and seeking support during challenging times. Much like Jayadratha, who sought reassurance and guidance from more experienced allies when faced with the fear of facing Arjuna, individuals can similarly benefit from reaching out to mentors or peers when they encounter their own daunting challenges. This narrative underscores the importance of acknowledging vulnerabilities and proactively seeking advice or help rather than retreating in isolation.
Furthermore, Drona's words highlight the value of persistence, continuous learning, and embracing the journey with resilience. Just as Arjuna's superiority was attributed to his dedication and hardships, individuals can apply the same principle by committing to personal growth and perseverance in the face of adversity. Acknowledging the temporal nature of life and focusing on actionable deeds, as illustrated by Drona's philosophical reflections, encourages living a life that is full and purpose-driven, striving for excellence while also preparing for the inevitability of challenges and the ultimate finality of life.
Taken together, this story offers a powerful blueprint for facing fears head-on with the support of a community, embracing continuous improvement, and leading a meaningful life through the pursuit of one's duties and goals.