Section II - Story of Karna's Resolve to Protect the Kuru Host
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section II 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:
After the death of Bhishma, Karna, a warrior of great prowess and skill, took it upon himself to protect the Kaurava army and rescue them from the distress they were facing. He compared the situation to a boat sunk in the ocean and felt compelled to step up and lead in the absence of Bhishma. Karna expressed his determination to protect the Kurus and defeat the Pandavas, accepting the transient nature of life and the inevitability of death in battle.
Karna addressed the soldiers, lamenting the loss of Bhishma, a great hero who possessed numerous virtues and celestial weapons. He vowed to protect the Kaurava host and continue the fight against the Pandavas, displaying courage and determination in the face of adversity. Karna acknowledged the strength of the Pandava forces, including Yudhishthira, Vrikodara, Arjuna, and other formidable warriors, but remained resolute in his resolve to confront them in battle and achieve victory for the Kauravas.
Karna prepared for battle by equipping himself with the necessary weapons, armor, and chariot, urging his charioteer to quickly gather the required items for his expedition. He sought out his enemies, including Arjuna and the other Pandava warriors, expressing his readiness to either defeat them or meet his own end on the battlefield. Karna's determination and valor shone through as he rode towards the field of battle, accompanied by a large force of supporters and allies.
Riding on a magnificent chariot with powerful steeds and a dazzling standard, Karna exuded confidence and determination as he headed towards the battlefield where Bhishma had fallen. He was worshipped by the Kuru car-warriors, who saw him as a symbol of courage and strength akin to Indra among the celestials. Karna's appearance on the battlefield, radiating with the splendor of fire and the energy of the sun, marked a significant moment in the ongoing conflict between the Kauravas and the Pandavas, as he prepared to face his enemies and fulfill his destiny as a warrior.
Karna's resolve to protect the Kaurava army and lead them in battle exemplified his unwavering loyalty and courage in the face of adversity. Despite the challenges and losses experienced by the Kauravas, Karna's presence on the battlefield inspired hope and determination among his allies, as he stood as a formidable opponent against the forces of the Pandavas. With his powerful chariot, skilled weapons mastery, and fierce determination, Karna emerged as a key figure in the ongoing conflict, poised to make a significant impact on the outcome of the battle between the two sides.
Full English translation:
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Section II, 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 II:
What motivated Karna to join the battle after Bhishma's death?
Karna wanted to rescue the Kuru army, which was in distress after Bhishma's death. He aimed to protect them like a brother and uphold righteousness.
What characteristics did Karna possess as a warrior?
Karna was described as possessing firmness, intelligence, prowess, truth, self-restraint, and celestial weapons. He was compared to a father protecting his children and was known for his valor and bravery on the battlefield.
How did Karna prepare for battle against the Pandavas?
Karna requested his armor, weapons, bows, arrows, and a well-decorated chariot. He aimed to defeat the Pandavas and secure victory for the Kauravas by displaying his strength and determination on the battlefield.
Why did Karna view the battle as a righteous feat?
Karna believed in opposing force with force and saw protecting the Kuru army and defeating the Pandavas as a duty. He was willing to sacrifice his life for the cause of upholding righteousness and ensuring victory for his side.
Daily life: Story of Karna's Resolve to Protect the Kuru Host:
The story narrates the heroic and dedicated approach of Karna towards the battlefield after Bhishma's death, emphasizing resilience and determination. In daily life, this can inspire individuals to face challenges head-on and not be disheartened by setbacks. When faced with difficult times, akin to the loss of a guiding force like Bhishma for the Kuru army, it's vital to step up and take responsibility, much like Karna did to rally and protect his side.
His readiness to confront adversities, by not only being prepared to fight the Pandavas but also willing to face Death if it came to that, teaches the importance of courage and the willingness to stand by one's values and duties, even under the utmost pressure. The story also highlights the essence of preparation and self-belief. Karna's meticulous preparation for battle and his resolve to either emerge victorious or die with honor is a testament to the power of self-confidence and preparedness in overcoming life's battles.
Moreover, Karna's attitude towards treating momentous challenges as opportunities to prove oneself, to either secure victory or learn from defeat, can be a guiding principle. It fosters a mindset that every obstacle is a stepping stone to growth. Embracing challenges with a positive attitude, preparing oneself thoroughly for the tasks ahead, and holding onto one's principles steadfastly are crucial elements in navigating the complexities of life. Just like Karna's undeterred spirit, facing life's battles with resolve and readiness can lead to meaningful outcomes, regardless of the immediate results.