Shloka 21
Vāsudeva-Māhātmya: Duryodhana’s Inquiry and Bhīṣma’s Theological Account of Keśava
शरैरेकायनीकुर्वन् दिश: सर्वा यतव्रतः । जघान पाण्डवरथानादिश्य भरतर्षभ,भरतश्रेष्ठ! उत्तम व्रतका पालन करनेवाले भीष्म सम्पूर्ण दिशाओंको बाणोंसे व्याप्त करते हुए पाण्डव-पक्षीय रथियोंको अपना नाम सुना-सुनाकर मारने लगे
śarair ekāyanīkurvan diśaḥ sarvā yatavrataḥ | jaghāna pāṇḍava-rathān ādiśya bharatarṣabha ||
Sañjaya said: Bhīṣma, steadfast in his vowed discipline, filled every direction with his arrows, and—calling out his own name as a challenge and proclamation—began to strike down the chariot-warriors fighting for the Pāṇḍavas, O bull among the Bhāratas. The verse underscores the terrible prowess of a vow-bound elder who, though ethically revered, is now executing his duty in war with uncompromising force.
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights the ethical tension of dharma in war: a revered elder, defined by self-restraint and vows, can still become an instrument of destruction when bound to his role and allegiance. Personal virtue (vrata, discipline) does not automatically prevent participation in violence when one’s perceived duty and loyalties compel action.
Sañjaya describes Bhīṣma on the battlefield unleashing a dense, all-encompassing shower of arrows, dominating the field in every direction. He attacks the Pāṇḍava-side chariot fighters while proclaiming himself—an act that functions as both challenge and intimidation, marking his presence and prowess.