Shloka 20
Kaurava Mobilization at Kurukṣetra (Duryodhana Orders War Preparations) / कुरुक्षेत्रे धार्तराष्ट्र-सैन्यसज्जा
धनुष्मान् कवची खड्गी रथमारुहा[ दंशित: । दिव्यैरहयवरैर्युक्तमग्निकुण्डात् समुत्थित:
Vaiśampāyana uvāca: dhanuṣmān kavacī khaḍgī rathamāruhya daṃśitaḥ | divyair hayavarair yukto 'gnikuṇḍāt samutthitaḥ ||
ไวศัมปายนะกล่าวว่า เขาผู้ถือคันศร สวมเกราะ คาดดาบ พร้อมสรรพด้วยยุทธสรรพาวุธ ได้ขึ้นสู่รถศึก และเขาได้ผุดขึ้นจากกองไฟ พร้อมรถที่เทียมด้วยม้าทิพย์อันประเสริฐ
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse underscores the Mahābhārata’s idea that warfare, when framed as a dharmic necessity, is not mere violence but a grave duty carried by those specifically prepared—ethically and ritually—for a destined role. The imagery of emergence from the fire-pit highlights purpose, discipline, and accountability rather than personal rage.
Vaiśampāyana describes a formidable warrior appearing as if born from a sacrificial fire, already armed and immediately mounting a chariot drawn by divine horses—an introduction that marks him as a pivotal agent in the impending conflict.