Shloka 10
Śaineya’s Breakthrough and Reunion with Arjuna (शैनेयस्य समागमः)
बहुभि: पार्थिवैर्गुप्तमस्मत्प्रियचिकीर्षुभि: । अस्मानभिसृतै: कामात् सबलै: सपदानुगै:
bahubhiḥ pārthivair guptam asmat-priya-cikīrṣubhiḥ | asmān abhisṛtaiḥ kāmāt sa-balaiḥ sa-padānugaiḥ ||
Sañjaya said: Protected by many kings who were eager to do what was pleasing to us, they advanced upon us out of sheer desire—coming with their forces and with their followers close at their heels. The scene underscores how, in war, personal attachment and the urge to gratify one’s own side can drive coordinated aggression, even under the cover of ‘loyal service.’
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights how kāma (desire/impulse) can become a primary driver of action in war: even ‘service’ to one’s side (doing what is pleasing) may mask passion-driven aggression. Ethically, it invites scrutiny of motives—whether loyalty is guided by discernment or by desire.
Sañjaya reports that a group, shielded by many kings intent on pleasing ‘us’ (the Kaurava side), advanced upon the opposing party with their troops and attendants. It depicts a coordinated approach/assault under strong protection and support.