Shloka 31
Adhyāya 41 — Kṛṣṇa’s Battlefield Briefing and the Renewal of the Great Engagement
मित्र मिन्देर्नन्दते: प्रीयतेर्वा संत्रायतेर्मिनुतेमोदतेर्वा
mitra mindernandate prīyater vā saṃtrāyater minutemodater vā
Sañjaya said: “A friend is one by whom one rejoices, or feels affection; or by whom one is protected; or with whom one takes delight.”
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse characterizes true friendship ethically: a friend is recognized not merely by words but by the capacity to bring joy and goodwill, to offer protection in danger, and to share sincere delight—implying reliability, benevolence, and supportive presence.
Sañjaya, narrating events to Dhṛtarāṣṭra, inserts a reflective definition of ‘friend’—a moral lens through which alliances and loyalties in the war can be judged, especially in moments when protection, affection, and shared purpose are tested.