भीमस्य जलान्वेषणं तथा वनविश्रान्तिः
Bhīma’s Search for Water and the Forest Halt
वैशग्पायन उवाच एवमुक्त: स तं॑ द्रोणो मोक्षयामास भारत । सत्कृत्य चैनं प्रीतात्मा राज्यार्ध प्रत्यपादयत्
Vaiśampāyana uvāca: evam uktaḥ sa taṃ Droṇo mokṣayāmāsa Bhārata | satkṛtya cainaṃ prītātmā rājyārdhaṃ pratyapādayat ||
ヴァイシャンパーヤナは言った。「バーラタよ、そう告げられるとドローナは彼を解き放った。さらに喜びの心をもって礼を尽くし、王国の半分を返し与えた。」
वैशग्पायन उवाच
Power is not the final measure of righteousness: after asserting dominance, one may still act with restraint and honor. The verse highlights ethical kingship and personal conduct—showing respect (satkāra) and choosing reconciliation by restoring what is due, rather than pursuing humiliation or needless violence.
After Drupada speaks in a way that satisfies or persuades him, Droṇa releases Drupada from captivity. Droṇa then treats him respectfully and grants him half of the kingdom, turning a hostile encounter into a settlement marked by courtesy and a negotiated division of rule.