Section CXXXIX - Bhishma and Drona urge Duryodhana to avoid war with Pandavas
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CXXXIX 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 and Drona express their deep sadness at the thought of having to fight against the virtuous Yudhishthira, who is known for his devotion to service, truthfulness, and knowledge of Brahma. Drona reveals his affection for Arjuna, stating that he holds him in greater esteem than his own son, Asvatthaman, and expresses regret at the prospect of having to battle against him. They both urge Duryodhana to reconsider his decision to go to war with the Pandavas, highlighting the righteousness of their cause and the futility of pursuing conflict.
Drona warns Duryodhana that the Pandavas are supported by powerful allies such as Krishna and accomplished warriors like Arjuna, making them formidable opponents. He advises Duryodhana to consider the consequences of his actions, emphasizing that seeking peace and avoiding war would be in the best interest of the Kuru clan. Drona criticizes Duryodhana for his deceitful and sinful behavior, pointing out that such actions will inevitably lead to his downfall and bring disaster upon himself and his kingdom.
Bhishma echoes Drona's sentiments, stressing the virtues of the Pandavas and the unjustness of provoking a war with them. He questions Duryodhana's ability to defeat Yudhishthira, especially considering the support and blessings the Pandavas have from divine beings and sages. Bhishma advises Duryodhana to prioritize peace and reconciliation over conflict, warning him of the potential devastation that war could bring upon him, his family, and his kingdom.
Both Bhishma and Drona appeal to Duryodhana's sense of reason and morality, urging him to reconsider his aggressive stance towards the Pandavas and to seek a peaceful resolution to their differences. They highlight the importance of righteousness and the consequences of pursuing a path of violence and deceit. Despite their counsel and warnings, it remains to be seen whether Duryodhana will heed their advice or continue down a path of destruction and conflict.
Full English translation:
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Section CXXXIX, 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 CXXXIX:
Why did Bhishma and Drona advise Duryodhana against fighting Yudhishthira?
They believed it was futile to fight someone so virtuous and supported by powerful allies like Krishna and Arjuna.
What did Drona think would be the consequences of Duryodhana's decision to go to war?
Drona warned that Duryodhana's actions would bring calamity and defeat to himself and his kingdom.
Daily life: Bhishma and Drona urge Duryodhana to avoid war with Pandavas:
The tale emphasizes the importance of wisdom and reconciliation over conflict and pride, suggesting that seeking peace and understanding in difficult situations is more beneficial than pursuing conflicts. It highlights that even when we hold power or feel wronged, the path of dialogue and compromise can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved. The characters reflect on their past actions and advise against war, underscoring that relationships and moral integrity hold more value than victory in battle. This teaches us to value advice from experienced individuals around us and consider the long-term effects of our actions on relationships and our own well-being. In daily life, this can mean choosing to resolve disputes through conversation rather than letting them escalate, recognizing the strength in forgiveness, and prioritizing harmony over winning an argument. Making peace, even when difficult, can lead to prosperity and happiness for all parties involved.