Chapter 1 Verse 12
Arjun Viṣhād Yog
तस्य संजनयन्हर्षं कुरुवृद्धः पितामहः। सिंहनादं विनद्योच्चैः शङ्खं दध्मौ प्रतापवान्।।1.12।।
tasya sañjanayan harṣhaṁ kuru-vṛiddhaḥ pitāmahaḥ siṁha-nādaṁ vinadyochchaiḥ śhaṅkhaṁ dadhmau pratāpavān
Word Meanings
| tasya | his |
| sañjanayan | causing |
| harṣham | joy |
| kuru-vṛiddhaḥ | the grand old man of the Kuru dynasty (Bheeshma) |
| pitāmahaḥ | grandfather |
| sinha-nādam | lion’s roar |
| vinadya | sounding |
| uchchaiḥ | very loudly |
| śhaṅkham | conch shell |
| dadhmau | blew |
| pratāpa-vān | the glorious |
Translation
His glorious grandsire, the oldest of the Kauravas, roared like a lion to cheer Duryodhana and blew his conch.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse shows Bhīṣma, the respected elder, loudly cheering for Duryodhana by blowing his conch and roaring like a lion. It highlights how authority and symbols can strengthen a group's courage and push people into action.
On a deeper level, the scene warns that external displays—proud words, loud calls, and rituals—can stir strong emotions and drive choices. Even a noble person acting from duty can contribute to conflict if their encouragement goes unexamined. The verse asks us to notice how leaders and signs influence our inner state.
Life Application
- Before joining any loud call to action, pause and ask whether it aligns with your values, not just the pressure or prestige behind it.
- Be aware that respected people can still lead you into harm; seek calm, clear advice alongside passionate voices.
- Use quiet symbols (breath, short prayer, steady posture) to steady yourself when external noise tries to push you into reaction.
Reflection Question
Who or what usually stirs you to act quickly, and is that influence wise?