Verse 10
aparyāptaṁ tadasmākaṁ balaṁ bhīṣmābhirakṣitam
paryāptaṁ tvidameteṣāṁ balaṁ bhīmābhirakṣitam
Word-for-Word Meaning:
- aparyāptam — insufficient, not enough
- tat — that
- asmākam — of us, our
- balam — strength, army
- bhīṣmābhirakṣitam — protected by Bhishma
- paryāptam — sufficient, enough
- tu — but
- idam — this
- eteṣām — of them, their
- balam — strength, army
- bhīmābhirakṣitam — protected by Bhima
“Our strength, protected by Bhishma, is insufficient, whereas their strength, protected by Bhima, is sufficient.”
Expanded Interpretation:
Duryodhana’s Acknowledgment of the Situation:
Here, Duryodhana admits the disparity in strength between the two armies. He says that although Bhishma, the great warrior and commander, is protecting their side, their force is not adequate.
In contrast, the Pandava army, under the protection of Bhima (one of the mightiest warriors), is sufficiently strong and formidable.
Who Are Bhishma and Bhima?
- Bhishma: The grandsire of the Kuru family, a wise and nearly invincible warrior. His leadership is a key pillar for the Kauravas.
- Bhima: The second of the Pandava brothers, famous for his immense physical strength and valor. Bhima’s presence on the battlefield is a massive boost to the Pandava forces.
Psychological Insight:
Duryodhana’s words reveal his concern and unease about the strength of the Pandava army. This is one of the few moments where he shows vulnerability.
Despite his arrogance, Duryodhana realistically assesses that the enemy’s strength surpasses his own — a critical insight in the context of the war.
Philosophical Perspective:
Strength vs. Leadership:
- Even great protection (Bhishma) cannot guarantee success if the army’s strength itself is lacking.
- Strength combined with capable leadership (Bhima as protector) ensures confidence and capability.
Awareness and Realism:
Duryodhana’s statement reflects an important quality: awareness of one’s limitations. Such recognition, though uncomfortable, is necessary for growth and strategic adjustment.
Spiritual Symbolism:
- Bhishma can symbolize traditional values and old loyalties that may no longer suffice to uphold the present challenge.
- Bhima represents raw power, courage, and aggressive action, qualities needed to face and overcome challenges effectively.
This contrast suggests that different qualities are needed in different situations; sometimes tradition alone is not enough — active, bold effort is necessary.
Leadership Insight:
- Leaders must recognize strengths and weaknesses realistically.
- Depending solely on legacy or reputation (Bhishma’s protection) may lead to complacency.
- True power is a combination of strong leadership and capable resources (Bhima’s protection).
Conclusion:
Verse 10 captures Duryodhana’s moment of honesty about the military imbalance between the two sides. This acknowledgment, though subtle, sets the stage for the intense conflict ahead, emphasizing that victory depends not only on reputation and protection but also on the real strength and resolve of the warriors.
Reflection Questions for You:
How often do you acknowledge your own limitations honestly?
Are you relying too much on past successes or reputation instead of current capabilities?
What qualities do you need to cultivate to protect your own “army” — your goals, values, or projects?