Shloka 12
Bhīṣma–Arjuna Strategic Engagement at Virāṭa’s Frontier (भीष्मार्जुनयुद्धम्)
तौ वीरौ ददृशु: सर्वे कुरवो विस्मयान्विता: । युध्यमानौ महावीरयों यूथपाविव संगतौ,समस्त कौरव विस्मयविमुग्ध होकर उन दोनों वीरोंकी ओर देखने लगे। महापराक्रमी अश्वत्थामा और अर्जुन परस्पर भिड़े हुए दो यूथपतियोंकी भाँति लड़ रहे थे
tau vīrau dadṛśuḥ sarve kuravo vismayānvitāḥ | yudhyamānau mahāvīryau yūthapāv iva saṅgatau ||
毗湿摩波耶那说：众俱卢人满怀惊异，注视着那两位英雄。两位大勇士纠缠交战，宛如两支象群的首领迎面相撞——在集结的军阵之前，彼此试探对方的力量与意志。
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights the kṣatriya ideal of valor and steadfastness in combat, portraying how true prowess is recognized publicly and measured through direct encounter. Ethically, it underscores disciplined courage—strength displayed within the accepted arena of battle—rather than chaos or cruelty.
Vaiśampāyana describes a dramatic duel: two great warriors are engaged in close combat, and the assembled Kurus watch in amazement. The fighters are compared to two yūthapas (leaders of elephant herds) colliding, emphasizing equal force and a head-on clash.