The Bhagavad Gita is one of the most revered texts in Hindu philosophy. In Chapter 1, Krishna sets the stage for the divine discourse that unfolds between Him and Arjuna. In this blog, we will explore the meaning and significance of श्लोक 1 to श्लोक 5, along with key quotations that offer deep spiritual insights.
श्लोक 1
धृतराष्ट्र उवाच: धर्मक्षेत्रे कुरुक्षेत्रे समवेता युयुत्सवः। मामकाः पाण्डवाश्चैव किमकुर्वत सञ्जय॥
Translation: Dhritarashtra said: O Sanjaya, gathered in the holy land of Kurukshetra and eager for battle, what did my sons and the sons of Pandu do?
Explanation: Dhritarashtra’s concern here isn’t just for the battle, but for the righteousness (dharma) that surrounds the battlefield of Kurukshetra. The quotation introduces the setting where the epic battle and the discourse between Krishna and Arjuna will take place.
श्लोक 2
सञ्जय उवाच: दृष्ट्वा तु पाण्डवानीकं व्यूढं दुर्योधनस्तदा। आचार्यमुपसंगम्य राजा वचनमब्रवीत्॥
Translation: Sanjaya said: At that time, King Duryodhana, after observing the Pandava army arrayed in military formation, approached his teacher Dronacharya and spoke these words.
Explanation: In this shloka, Duryodhana observes the organized forces of the Pandavas, signaling his readiness for the upcoming battle. This verse captures his strategic mindset and his leadership role.
श्लोक 3
पश्यैतां पाण्डुपुत्राणामाचार्य महतीं चमूम्। व्यूढां द्रुपदपुत्रेण तव शिष्येण धीमता॥
Translation: Behold, O teacher, the great army of the sons of Pandu, so expertly arranged by your wise disciple, the son of Drupada.
Explanation: Duryodhana points out the formidable army led by the Pandavas and recognizes Drupada’s son as a skillful commander. This verse illustrates the strength and preparedness of the Pandava forces.
श्लोक 4
अत्र शूरा महेष्वासा भीमार्जुनसमा युधि। युयुधानो विराटश्च द्रुपदश्च महारथः॥
Translation: Here in this army, there are many great warriors, equal in fighting skill to Bhima and Arjuna—Yuyudhana, Virata, and Drupada, a mighty warrior.
Explanation: Duryodhana highlights the warriors within the Pandava camp who are as powerful and skillful as Bhima and Arjuna, recognizing the strengths of individual warriors.
श्लोक 5
धृष्टकेतुश्चेकितानः काशिराजश्च वीर्यवान्। पुरुजित्कुन्तिभोजश्च शैब्यश्च नरपुङ्गवः॥
Translation: There are also the heroic Dhrishtaketu, Chekitana, and the valiant king of Kashi, along with Purujit, Kuntibhoja, and Shaibya, the best among men.
Explanation: This verse continues to emphasize the strength of the Pandava army by naming more powerful warriors. Duryodhana’s fear of their might is subtly evident here.
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