Karṇa’s Camp-Council Discourse: Dhṛtarāṣṭra’s Lament, Sañjaya’s Counsel, and Karṇa’s Request for Śalya
Book 8, Chapter 22
ततस्तं निशितं खड्गमाविध्य युधि सत्वर: । धनुश्नान्यत् समादाय शरं जग्राह वीर्यवान्
tatastaṃ niśitaṃ khaḍgam āvidhya yudhi satvaraḥ | dhanuḥ anyat samādāya śaraṃ jagrāha vīryavān ||
तब उस पराक्रमी ने रण में शीघ्र ही उस तीक्ष्ण खड्ग को घुमाया; फिर दूसरा धनुष उठाकर एक बाण हाथ में ले लिया।
संजय उवाच
The verse highlights the kṣatriya ideal of steadfastness: even amid danger and rapid changes in combat, a warrior must remain composed, resourceful, and ready to act—switching weapons and continuing the struggle without hesitation.
In Sañjaya’s report of the battle, a valiant fighter quickly brandishes a sharp sword and then takes up another bow and an arrow, indicating an immediate tactical shift and continued engagement in the fight.