Shloka 96
Droṇa-parva Adhyāya 107: Karṇa–Bhīma Saṃmarda
Arrow-storm Engagement
त्रासयामास तत् सैन्यं ध्वजो गाण्डीवधन्चन: । राजन! श्रेष्ठ वानरसे सुशोभित तथा पताकाओंसे अलंकृत गाण्डीवधारी अर्जुनका वह ध्वज आपकी उस सेनाको भयभीत किये देता था
trāsayāmāsa tat sainyaṁ dhvajo gāṇḍīvadhanvanaḥ | rājan śreṣṭha-vānarena suśobhitaḥ tathā patākābhiḥ alaṅkṛtaḥ gāṇḍīvadhārī arjunasya sa dhvajaḥ tava senāṁ bhayabhītām akarot ||
サンジャヤは言った。王よ、ガーンディーヴァを携えるアルジュナの旗は、最上の猿の紋章を戴き、幾筋もの吹き流しで飾られて、あの軍勢に恐怖を投げかけた。戦のダルマが漂うこの場において、それは単なる見せかけではない。旗印は決意と武威の目に見える徴となり、敵の心を揺さぶり、義務と破壊のあいだの倫理的緊張を戦場に刻みつけるのである。
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights how symbols of righteous resolve and proven prowess (a hero’s banner and emblem) can influence morale. In dharma-based warfare, inner steadiness and reputation become forces that shape outcomes, reminding listeners that fear and courage arise not only from weapons but from perceived legitimacy, discipline, and purpose.
Sañjaya reports to King Dhṛtarāṣṭra that Arjuna’s banner—decorated with the foremost monkey emblem and streamers—was so imposing that it frightened the opposing troops. The scene emphasizes the psychological impact of Arjuna’s presence as the wielder of the Gāṇḍīva.