Shloka 55
भीमसेन-धृष्टद्युम्नयोर्वाक्यं
Bhīmasena and Dhṛṣṭadyumna’s Speeches on Kṣātra-Dharma
सीमन्तमिव कुर्वन्ती नभसो5ग्निसमप्रभाम् । अप्राप्तामेव तां शक्तिं त्रिधा चिच्छेद कौरव:
sīmantaṃ iva kurvantī nabhaso ’gnisamaprabhām | aprāptām eva tāṃ śaktiṃ tridhā ciccheda kauravaḥ ||
सीमन्तमिव कुर्वन्ती नभसोऽग्निसमप्रभाम् । अप्राप्तामेव तां शक्तिं त्रिधा चिच्छेद कौरवः ॥
संजय उवाच
Educational Q&A
In the ethics of epic warfare, sheer force or terrifying weaponry is not decisive by itself; vigilance, skill, and timely response can neutralize even a seemingly unstoppable attack. The verse highlights the primacy of effective action (prayatna) and presence of mind over mere display of power.
A blazing śakti (spear) streaks through the air, appearing to split the sky with its fire-like brilliance. Before it can strike, a Kaurava warrior intercepts it and cuts it into three pieces, thwarting the attack mid-flight.