Chapter 1 Verse 11
Arjun Viṣhād Yog
अयनेषु च सर्वेषु यथाभागमवस्थिताः। भीष्ममेवाभिरक्षन्तु भवन्तः सर्व एव हि।।1.11।।
ayaneṣhu cha sarveṣhu yathā-bhāgamavasthitāḥ bhīṣhmamevābhirakṣhantu bhavantaḥ sarva eva hi
Word Meanings
| ayaneṣhu | at the strategic points |
| cha | also |
| sarveṣhu | all |
| yathā-bhāgam | in respective position |
| avasthitāḥ | situated |
| bhīṣhmam | to Grandsire Bheeshma |
| eva | only |
| abhirakṣhantu | defend |
| bhavantaḥ | you |
| sarve | all |
| eva hi | even as |
Translation
Therefore, do all of you, stationed in your respective positions in the several divisions of the army, protect Bhishma alone.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
The verse asks each warrior to stay in the place assigned to them and protect the leader, Bhishma. On the surface this is about military order and unity. Deeper down, it teaches steady commitment to the role you have been given.
Spiritually, it points to doing your duty calmly and loyally as part of a larger whole. When everyone fulfills their part, the whole system holds together. This steadiness supports the common good and keeps confusion and chaos away.
At the same time, true loyalty means protecting what is right. Follow leaders and systems with discernment. If a role or order clearly harms dharma (what is right), inner wisdom should guide your action rather than blind obedience.
Life Application
- Focus on your responsibilities where you are: do your tasks well without constantly comparing yourself to others.
- Support your team or community, but check that the direction is ethical; speak up if something is clearly wrong.
- Keep steady effort and avoid chasing only personal recognition; shared goals succeed when everyone plays their part.
Reflection Question
Am I faithfully doing my part where I am placed, and is my loyalty helping what is right?