Chapter 1 Verse 2
Arjun Viṣhād Yog
सञ्जय उवाच दृष्ट्वा तु पाण्डवानीकं व्यूढं दुर्योधनस्तदा। आचार्यमुपसङ्गम्य राजा वचनमब्रवीत्।।1.2।।
sañjaya uvācha dṛiṣhṭvā tu pāṇḍavānīkaṁ vyūḍhaṁ duryodhanastadā āchāryamupasaṅgamya rājā vachanamabravīt
Word Meanings
| sanjayaḥ uvācha | Sanjay said |
| dṛiṣhṭvā | on observing |
| tu | but |
| pāṇḍava-anīkam | the Pandava army |
| vyūḍham | standing in a military formation |
| duryodhanaḥ | King Duryodhan |
| tadā | then |
| āchāryam | teacher |
| upasaṅgamya | approached |
| rājā | the king |
| vachanam | words |
| abravīt | spoke |
Translation
Sanjaya said: Having seen the army of the Pandavas drawn up in battle array, King Duryodhana approached his teacher, Drona, and spoke these words.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse shows a leader who, on seeing a serious challenge, does not act alone but goes to his teacher for advice. It highlights the natural move from alarm to seeking wisdom.
Spiritually, it reminds us that facing opposition can be an opportunity to consult inner or outer guides. The moment of crisis reveals our attachments and tests our judgment; turning to a teacher or deeper wisdom helps steady the mind and align action with duty.
Life Application
- When you face a big problem, pause and seek counsel from someone experienced or from your own calm inner voice before reacting.
- Use challenges as a prompt to check your motives: are you driven by fear, pride, or duty? Let clarity guide your steps.
- Make consulting others a habit: a fresh perspective often prevents mistakes made in haste.
Reflection Question
Who do you turn to for steady advice when you feel overwhelmed, and why?