Shloka 21
Droṇa-parva Adhyāya 107: Karṇa–Bhīma Saṃmarda
Arrow-storm Engagement
शुशुभे केतुना तेन राजतेन जयद्रथ:
śuśubhe ketunā tena rājatenā jayadrathaḥ
Sañjaya dit : «Paré de cette bannière éclatante, Jayadratha se détachait avec brio—son emblème le rendait visible au cœur du tumulte, rappelant qu’en guerre les signes extérieurs de puissance et de prestige peuvent à la fois galvaniser les alliés et attirer le péril.»
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights how external symbols of status—like a radiant banner—can magnify a warrior’s presence. Ethically, it suggests that display and reputation in war are double-edged: they bolster morale and authority, yet also mark one out for consequence and retribution.
Sañjaya describes Jayadratha on the battlefield, emphasizing that he appears especially prominent because of his bright, shining standard.