Section 58 - Battle of Bhima vs. Duryodhana: Epic Clash of Titans
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section 58 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:
The story begins with Arjuna questioning Krishna about who is superior in battle between Bhima and Duryodhana. Krishna explains that while Bhima is stronger, Duryodhana is more skilled and has worked harder. He advises Bhima to fight with deception, as that is the only way he can defeat Duryodhana. Both warriors engage in a fierce mace battle, with their blows generating sparks and thunder. Despite their equal strength and skill, Bhima manages to break Duryodhana's thighs with a powerful blow, causing him to fall to the ground.
The impact of Duryodhana's fall is catastrophic, as the earth trembles, bloody showers fall from the sky, and meteors flash down. The atmosphere is filled with terrifying noises from supernatural beings, animals, and birds. Lakes and wells vomit forth blood, and rivers flow in opposite directions. The very fabric of nature seems to be in upheaval at the fall of the Kuru prince. Witnessing these extraordinary events, the Pancalas and Pandavas are filled with anxiety and awe.
The gods, Gandharvas, Siddhas, and Caranas witness the battle and its aftermath, and they discuss the incredible display of power between Bhima and Duryodhana. They acknowledge the fierce determination and skill of both warriors, as well as the tremendous impact of their battle on the world around them. Despite the chaos and destruction caused by the fight, there is a sense of respect for the bravery and strength displayed by Bhima and Duryodhana. The story highlights the complex nature of warfare and the consequences it can have on both the combatants and the world at large.
The fall of Duryodhana marks a turning point in the battle, as his defeat has far-reaching implications for the Kuru clan. The balance of power shifts, and the Pandavas gain a significant advantage in the ongoing conflict. Bhima's victory over Duryodhana is a testament to his strength and determination, as well as the guidance and support he receives from Krishna. The story illustrates the complexity of war and the impact it can have on individuals, families, and the natural world. It serves as a reminder of the cost of conflict and the importance of wisdom, strategy, and courage in the face of adversity.
Full English translation:
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Section 58, 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 58:
Who did Vasudeva consider to be superior in the battle between Bhima and Duryodhana?
Vasudeva believed that Bhima had greater might, while Duryodhana had greater skill. He advised Bhima to use deception to defeat Duryodhana.
What advice did Vasudeva give Arjuna regarding the battle between Bhima and Duryodhana?
Vasudeva advised Arjuna that Bhima should fight unfairly using deception to defeat Duryodhana, as he was skilled and might not win a fair fight.
What happened when Bhima and Duryodhana clashed in battle?
Bhima broke Duryodhana's thighs with his mace, causing him to fall and creating various portents like earthquakes, strange creatures, and rivers flowing in opposite directions.
How did the Pandavas and their allies react to Duryodhana's fall in battle?
The Pandavas and their allies were filled with anxiety and witnessed various supernatural events like bloody showers, dancing creatures, and strange transformations among people.
Daily life: Battle of Bhima vs. Duryodhana: Epic Clash of Titans:
The story vividly depicts a fierce battle between two warriors, Bhima and Duryodhana, highlighting themes such as skill, might, determination, and the use of strategy, including deception, to overcome challenges. In our daily lives, we often face situations that require us to navigate through problems, sometimes demanding both strength and cunning to achieve our goals. The narrative suggests that hard work, dedication, and practicing our skills consistently can prepare us for life's battles. However, it also underscores the importance of adapting our strategies based on circumstances, indicating that a straightforward approach might not always be effective.
Practicing resilience and maintaining a strong resolve, akin to the characters in the story, are crucial in overcoming adversities. While physical prowess was essential in their context, in modern times, mental agility and emotional strength become the equivalents that guide us through personal and professional challenges. The tale also serves as a reminder that victories may require us to think outside the box and employ unconventional methods, as long as we adhere to our core values and ethical compass.
In essence, the story encourages us to be prepared, adaptable, and resilient, drawing on both our inner strength and strategic thinking to navigate life's battles. It teaches us the value of perseverance and cleverness, reminding us that while circumstances may be daunting, our approach to handling them can lead to success.