Shloka 22
अदारा-नीति
Crisis Composure) and ‘Jaya’ Śravaṇa (Morale-Instruction
पुत्र उवाच अकोशस्यासहायस्य कुत: सिद्धिर्जयो मम । इत्यवस्थां विदित्वैतामात्मना55त्मनि दारुणाम्
putra uvāca: akośasyāsahāyasya kutaḥ siddhir jayo mama | ity avasthāṁ viditvaitām ātmanā ātmani dāruṇām ||
O filho disse: “Para quem não tem tesouro nem aliados, de onde viria o êxito—como poderia a vitória ser minha?” Tendo reconhecido em si mesmo essa condição dura, falou a partir de uma aflição interior.
पुत्र उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights a realist ethical insight: ambition for victory must be measured against one’s means—material resources (kośa) and supportive alliances (sahāya). Recognizing limitations is part of responsible decision-making, especially in political and martial contexts.
A son, reflecting on his situation, voices doubt about achieving success or victory because he lacks both wealth and allies. He has inwardly grasped the severity of his condition and expresses this internal crisis aloud.