Shloka 32
Droṇa–Vidura–Gāndhārī Counsel in the Royal Assembly (धर्मार्थयुक्ता सभा-उपदेश-प्रकरणम्)
इत्युक्त: प्राञ्जलिर्भूत्वा दु:खितो भृशमातुर: । तेभ्यो न्यवेदयं तत्र प्रतिज्ञां पितृगौरवात्
ity uktaḥ prāñjalir bhūtvā duḥkhito bhṛśam āturaḥ | tebhyo nyavedayaṃ tatra pratijñāṃ pitṛgauravāt ||
Ainsi interpellé, je demeurai les mains jointes, accablé de chagrin et d’une détresse aiguë. Là, par respect pour l’honneur de mon père, je leur exposai le vœu que j’avais prononcé—m’y liant, fût-ce au prix de mon propre bonheur.
भीष्म उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights the ethical weight of a vow undertaken for a higher obligation—here, reverence for a father’s honor. It presents dharma as fidelity to one’s pledged word, even when it brings personal sorrow.
Bhīṣma, having been addressed by others, becomes deeply distressed. With folded hands, he formally informs them of the vow he had made, emphasizing that it was taken out of regard for his father’s dignity and authority.