Section LI - Dhritarashtra's Fear of Bhima: The Impending Destruction
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section LI 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:
Dhritarashtra expresses his deep fear of Bhima, acknowledging his unparalleled strength and fury that surpasses even the mightiest warriors in the army. He recounts instances from Bhima's childhood where he exhibited immense power and ferocity, causing havoc among his enemies. Dhritarashtra laments the impending fate of his sons in the face of Bhima's wrath, predicting their inevitable destruction in battle. He reflects on the consequences of the dice game that led to the current predicament, blaming Duryodhana's greed for the unfolding tragedy. Dhritarashtra resigns himself to the unavoidable destruction of the Kauravas, feeling helpless and overwhelmed by the impending doom.
He describes Bhima as a fierce warrior with immeasurable strength, capable of single-handedly decimating the entire Kaurava army in battle. Dhritarashtra fears the wrathful Bhima, who exhibits no mercy or restraint, and predicts the annihilation of his sons in the impending conflict. Despite his attempts to warn his sons and avert the disaster, Dhritarashtra feels powerless to control the unfolding events. He acknowledges the inevitability of destiny and the consequences of his sons' actions, resigning himself to the tragic fate that awaits them.
Reflecting on the deeds and capabilities of Bhima, Dhritarashtra highlights his unmatched prowess and relentless determination to destroy his enemies. He recalls Bhima's past feats and acts of valor, emphasizing his unyielding spirit and ferocious nature in battle. Dhritarashtra envisions the battlefield scenario where Bhima, mace in hand, will wreak havoc among the Kaurava forces with unmatched power and skill. He acknowledges the futility of opposing Bhima, recognizing him as a force of nature that cannot be controlled or subdued.
Dhritarashtra's narrative is filled with sorrow and lamentation as he anticipates the impending doom that will befall his sons at the hands of Bhima. He mourns the fate of the Kauravas, recognizing the consequences of their actions and the inevitable destruction that awaits them in battle. Despite his sorrow and regret, Dhritarashtra feels a sense of resignation and acceptance of the unfolding tragedy, knowing that he is powerless to change the course of events. He prepares himself to witness the devastation and hear the wails of the women as his hundred sons meet their end in the fierce battle led by Bhima and the Pandavas.
In conclusion, Dhritarashtra's narrative serves as a foreboding depiction of the impending conflict and the tragic fate that awaits the Kauravas at the hands of Bhima. His words convey a sense of helplessness, regret, and acceptance as he grapples with the inevitable destruction that looms over his family. The story serves as a cautionary tale of the consequences of greed, folly, and unchecked ambition, leading to a tragic end for those who embrace such vices.
Full English translation:
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Section LI, 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 LI:
What is Dhritarashtra's biggest fear in the battle?
Dhritarashtra is most afraid of Bhima's wrath and strength in battle. He sees Bhima as unsurpassable in might and fury.
What are Dhritarashtra's concerns regarding his sons?
Dhritarashtra fears that Bhima will crush his sons in battle due to his immense strength and ferocity.
How does Dhritarashtra describe Bhima's capabilities?
Dhritarashtra portrays Bhima as a formidable warrior with unparalleled strength, likening him to a lion amongst deer.
Why does Dhritarashtra regret the decisions made by his sons?
Dhritarashtra regrets his sons' actions, foreseeing their downfall due to their enmity with Bhima.
Daily life: Dhritarashtra's Fear of Bhima: The Impending Destruction:
The story vividly illustrates the fear and anticipation of disaster that Dhritarashtra feels due to the power and wrath of Bhima, one of the Pandavas, towards his sons, the Kauravas, in the epic Mahabharata. Despite recognizing the looming danger and the overwhelming might of Bhima, Dhritarashtra feels helpless, unable to sway his sons from the path of war, showcasing the inevitable consequence of their past actions and decisions. This narrative can serve as a compelling metaphor for the consequences of our own actions and the importance of wisdom, foresight, and the willingness to listen to wise counsel in our lives.
In our daily lives, the story underscores the significance of considering the repercussions of our actions, much like Dhritarashtra’s failure to prevent the conflict despite foreseeing its disastrous outcome. It teaches us to heed advice, learn from others’ experiences, and understand that pride and ignorance often lead to downfall. We are reminded that wisdom and courage are not merely about persisting in our chosen paths but also about having the humility to change course when faced with imminent danger or moral wrongdoing.
Furthermore, the narrative encourages reflection on the impact of our actions on others, echoing the destruction that befalls Dhritarashtra's lineage due to past misdeeds. It serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of making choices that are not only beneficial in the short term but also sustainable and morally sound in the long run. Ultimately, the story invites us to live with awareness, accountability, and compassion, ensuring that we contribute positively to our surroundings rather than causing harm or regret.