Chapter 1 – Arjuna’s Despondency
Verse 7
Asmaakam’, tu, vishishtaH, ye, taan’, nibodh, dwijottam,
NaaykaaH, mm, sainyasya, sangyaartham’, taan’, brveemi, te ||7||
Simple Meaning:
O best among the Brahmins (as Sanjay addresses Dhritarashtra), now listen carefully to the distinguished warriors on our side. I shall name the leaders of my army for your understanding and identification.
In-depth Explanation:
In this verse, the discussion of the great warriors on the Kaurava side begins. Duryodhana, who was previously mentioning the key warriors of the Pandava army, now turns to highlight the powerful and distinguished warriors from his own side.
He tells Dhritarashtra –
“Now let me also tell you about some of the exceptional and valiant warriors who are the leaders of my army. You should also know them well.”
Here, the word ‘Sanjñārtham’ means “for the sake of identification or recognition.”
Duryodhana is listing these warriors to emphasize the strength of his own army — asserting that it is in no way inferior to the Pandava side. There may also be a psychological reason for this — fearing warriors like Bhima and Arjuna, Duryodhana tries to reassure himself by recounting the strength and valor of his own champions.
Message:
This verse clearly shows that before the war, both sides are evaluating and comparing their strengths. It reflects a natural human tendency — when we are fearful or anxious, we try to boost our confidence by counting our achievements and supporters.
