Shloka 10
Virāṭa-parva Adhyāya 42 — Duryodhana’s counsel to Bhīṣma on ajñātavāsa risk and raid strategy
कस्येमे शुकपत्राभै: पूर्वरर्थ: सुवासस: । उत्तरैरायसै: पीतैहेमपुड्खै: शिलाशितै:
kasyeme śukapatrābhaiḥ pūrvārthāḥ suvāsasaḥ | uttarair āyasaiḥ pītaiḥ hemapuṅkhaiḥ śilāśitaiḥ ||
ウッタラは言った。「この見事な矢は誰のものか。前部は鸚鵡の羽のように輝き、後部は黄に染まり、鉄で作られ、金の矢羽を備え、石で研がれて鋭くなっている。」
उत्तर उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights discernment and attentiveness: even amid fear and uncertainty, one should observe carefully and inquire properly. It also reflects the kṣatriya milieu where the quality and ownership of weapons matter, implying responsibility and propriety in the use of martial power.
In the Virāṭa episode, Prince Uttara notices exceptionally crafted arrows and asks whose they are. The detailed description underscores their superior make, foreshadowing the presence and capability of a great warrior (contextually, Arjuna in disguise) and setting the stage for the coming confrontation.