Shloka 14
Bala and Dharma in Kṣatriya Governance (बल-धर्म सम्बन्धः)
अपचिक्रमिषु: क्षिप्रं साम्ना वा परिसान्त्वयन् । विलड्घयित्वा मन्त्रेण तत: स्वयमुपक्रमेत्,अथवा वह मधुर वचनोंद्वारा विरोधी दलके मन्त्री आदिको प्रसन्न करके दुर्गसे पलायन करनेका प्रयत्न करे। तदनन्तर कुछ काल व्यतीत करके श्रेष्ठ पुरुषोंकी सम्मति ले अपनी खोयी हुई सम्पत्ति अथवा राज्यको पुन: प्राप्त करनेका प्रयत्न आरम्भ करे
apacikramiṣuḥ kṣipraṃ sāmnā vā parisāntvayan | vilaṅghayitvā mantreṇa tataḥ svayam upakramet ||
Bhishma said: When one is compelled to withdraw, one should do so swiftly—either by conciliation and gentle persuasion, or by outwitting the opposing side through counsel and stratagem. Having thus secured a safe escape from the fort or perilous position, one should wait for an appropriate time; then, with the approval of wise and eminent persons, one should begin efforts to recover what was lost—property or even a kingdom.
भीष्म उवाच
Educational Q&A
Retreat can be a dharmically valid strategy when it prevents needless destruction and preserves the capacity to restore justice later; one should withdraw swiftly, use conciliation or prudent counsel, and then attempt recovery at the right time with wise support.
In Bhishma’s instruction on governance and conduct under pressure, he outlines how a threatened party should escape danger—by pacifying opponents or by strategic counsel—and later, after time and consultation with respected advisers, begin efforts to regain lost property or rule.