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भीष्मवधपर्वन् (bhISmavadhaparvan)

 
Mahabharata
English
[Bhīshmavadhaparvan]
(“the section relating to the slaying of Bhīshma, ” the 70th of the minor parvans of Mhbhr.
cf. Bhīshmavadha). § 577: Beholding Arjuna again taking up the Gāṇḍīva, the Pāṇḍavas and Somakas were filled with joy and blew their conches, etc. D., G., P., Si., Cā., and Ṛ. came with Indra in order to behold the fight. Putting off his coat of mail, etc., Yudhishṭhira, followed by his brothers () (who did not know his intentions) and Kṛshṇa, proceeded on foot, with joined hands, to Bhīshma, etc. (), one after another, and asked their permission to fight. He also inquired about the means of vanquishing Bhīshma and Droṇa, and as they said that they were invincible he asked them to indicate the means of killing them. They gave the permission, said they would pray for his victory, though they were bound by the wealth of the Kurus to fight for them. Bhīshma said that his time of death had not yet come, he must come to see him once more. Droṇa said that if he did not give himself up to death and drop his weapons nobody would be able to slay him
he would drop his arms if he heard something very disagreeable from someone whose speech was trustworthy. Kṛpa said he was incapable of being slain. Śalya renewed his promise to weaken the energy of Karṇa. When the Kauravas saw Yudhishṭhira, they contemned him, believing that he had come in terror. Kṛshṇa endeavoured to bring Karṇa over to the Pāṇḍavas, as long as Bhīshma was not slain, but in vain. Yudhishṭhira exclaimed, “He who chooses us, him we will choose for our ally”
Yuyutsu went over to the Pāṇḍavas, and Yudhishṭhira said that the propagation of Dhṛtarāshṭra's lineage and his śrāddha oblations rested on him. The Mlecchas and Aryans wept for joy at the behaviour of the Pāṇḍavas, and blew their conches, etc. (VI, 43).--§ 578: THE FIRST DAY'S ENCOUNTER: Duḥśāsana advanced with his troops with Bhīshma at their head, and the Pāṇḍavas headed by Bhīmasena, who roared frightfully. Duryodhana, etc. (), attacked Bhīmasena. The Draupadeyas, etc. (), rushed against the Dhārtarāshṭras. The disciples of Droṇa always hit the mark (VI, 44). (1) Bhīshma attacked Arjuna
(2) Sātyaki attacked Kṛta-varman
(3) Abhimanyu fought with Bṛhadbala
(4) Bhīmasena struggled with Duryodhana
(5) Duḥśāsana fought with Nakula
(6) Durmukha fought with Sahadeva
(7) Yudhishṭhira fought with the Madra king (Śalya)
(8) Dhṛshṭadyumna attacked Droṇa
(9) Śaṅkha encountered Somadatta's son
(10) Dhṛshṭaketu (the king of the Cedis) encountered Bāhlīka, they looked like the planets Aṅgāraka (Mars) and Budha (Mercury)
(11) Ghaṭotkaca encountered Alambusha
(12) Śikhaṇḍin encountered Aśvatthāman
(13) Virāṭa attacked Bhagadatta
(14) Kṛpa attacked the Kaikeya king Bṛhatkshattra
(15) Drupada attacked the Sindhu king Jayadratha, they resembled the planets Śukra (Venus) and Aṅgāraka (Mars)
(16) Vikarṇa (son of Dhṛtarāshṭra) attacked Sutasoma
(17) Cekitāna, who sided with the Pāṇḍavas, attacked Suśarman
(18) Śakuni attacked Prativindhya
(19) Śrutakarman (the son of Sahadeva) attacked the Kāmboja king Sudakshiṇa, and stood like the Maināka mountain
(20) Irāvat (son of Arjuna) attacked Śrutāyus
(21) the two princes of Avanti, Vinda and Anuvinda, encountered Kuntibhoja with his son
(22) the Kekaya-brothers encountered the five Gāndhāra-princes
(23) Vīrabāhu (son of Dhṛtarāshṭra) encountered Uttara (the son of Virāṭa)
(24) The Cedi king attacked Ulūka. Thousands of single combats took place. D.-ṛ., Si., and Cā. beheld the battle, which resembled the combat of D. and As. (VI, 45). The Pāṇḍavas and the Kurus fought as if they were possessed by demons. The divisions of the Pāṇḍavas, approaching Bhīshma (b), began to yield (VI, 46). (25) After the greater part of the forenoon had worn out, Durmukha, etc. (), began to protect Bhīshma, who rushed upon the Cedis, etc. (). (26) Then Abhimanyu (c) attacked Bhīshma, Kṛtavarman, Śalya, Durmukha (cutting off the head of his charioteer), and Kṛpa (cutting in two his bow)
he was regarded as equal to Arjuna, and his bow sent forth a twang like that of the Gāṇḍīva
he stood firm like the Maināka mountain. When Bhīshma's standard fell down, Bhīma shouted. Bhīshma used celestial weapons. (27) In order to protect Abhimanyu, Virāṭa, etc. (), attacked Bhīshma, who wounded Dhṛshṭadyumna and Sātyaki, and they cut off the standard of Bhīmasena (d), who wounded Bhīshma and Kṛpa and Kṛtavarman. (28) Mounted on an elephant, Uttara (the son of Virāṭa) attacked the Madra king Śalya, whose steeds were killed by the elephant
Śalya, with a dart, deprived Uttara of his senses, and mounted the chariot of Kṛtavarman. (29) Seeing his brother Uttara slain and Śalya staying with Kṛtavarman, Śveta (the son of Virāṭa) attacked Śalya. (30) The Kosala king Bṛhadbala, etc. (), attacked Śveta in order to protect Śalya
Śveta wounded Rukmaratha, who was borne away by his charioteer. (31) Then Duryodhana, with Bhīshma, etc., attacked Śveta and rescued Śalya
Bhīshma shot at Abhimanyu, etc. () (VI, 47). The Pāṇḍavas, with Śikhaṇḍin, desired to rescue the generalissimo Śveta and attacked Bhīshma. The Kurus retreated from fear, and abandoned Bhīshma. (32) Duryodhana averted Śveta from Bhīshma, and was routed
(33) Śveta once more attacked Bhīshma, whose standard he cut down
(34) then Bāhlīka, etc. (), attacked Śveta in order to protect Bhīshma, whose chariot Śveta reduced to ashes, with standard, etc.
(35) Śalya, etc., rushed to Bhīshma's rescue
a voice in the skies admonished Bhīshma to hasten the death of Śveta. (36) Sātyaki, etc. (), rushed to the rescue of Śveta. Bhīshma, etc. (), checked them. With a shaft endued with the force of the Brāhma weapon, seen by D., G., P., U., and Rā., Bhīshma shot Śveta to death. The Pāṇḍavas (with Śikhaṇḍin) lamented
the Kurus rejoiced
Duḥśāsana danced for joy. Arjuna and Kṛshṇa withdrew the troops, the same did the Kurus (VI, 48). (37) When Śveta had been slain, Virāṭa's son Śaṅkha, on beholding Śalya standing with Kṛtavarman, attacked Śalya
(38) Bhīshma attacked Śaṅkha
(39) Arjuna placed himself in front of Śaṅkha and attacked Bhīshma
(40) Śalya, mace in hand, slew the steeds of Śaṅkha, who mounted Arjuna's chariot. (41) Bhīshma with his arrows slaughtered the Pāñcāla hosts, etc. (), abandoned Arjuna, and attacked Drupada. The Pāṇḍavas were routed, the sun set, and the Pāṇḍavas withdrew their forces (VI, 49). Seeing Bhīshma's (and Droṇa's) prowess, Yudhishṭhira complained before Kṛshṇa, and spoke of retiring into the woods. Bhīma alone, he said, fought in accordance with kshattriya duties
Arjuna was indifferent. Kṛshṇa consoled him, saying that he had got Sātyaki, etc. (), and that Śikhaṇḍin was certainly the slayer of Bhīshma. Yudhishṭhira then addressed Dhṛshṭadyumna, saying that he himself and Bhīma, etc. (), would follow him. Dhṛshṭadyumna said that he had been appointed by Śambhu to slay Droṇa and to fight against Bhīshma, etc. (). Yudhishṭhira recommended the array called Krauñcāruṇa, which Bṛhaspati had explained to Indra in days of old, when the gods and the Asuras fought, but which had never been seen before. When morning dawned, Dhṛshṭadyumna placed Arjuna () in the van of the army, and Drupada became the head [of the array], etc. () (VI, 50). Seeing the Krauñca of the Pāṇḍavas, Duryodhana, approaching Bhīshma, etc. (), gladdened them all, saying that their army, which was protected by Bhīshma, was immeasurable, while that of the Pāṇḍavas, protected by Bhīma, was measurable. The Saṃsthānas, etc. (), should protect Bhīshma. Bhīshma, Droṇa, and the Dhārtarāshṭras formed a mighty array. Bhīshma was followed by Droṇa with the Kuntalas, etc. (). Śakuni protected Droṇa. Followed by his brothers and the Aśvātakas, etc. (), Duryodhana advanced against the Pāṇḍava host. Bhūriśravas, etc. (), protected the left flank
Somadatta, etc. (), the right
Aśvatthāman, etc. (), were in the rear
behind them Ketumat, etc. (). Bhīshma and the others blew their conches, etc. Kṛshṇa, etc. (), blew their conches (Kṛshṇa blew Pāñcajanya, etc.). The Kurus and Pāṇḍavas marched against each other in order to renew the battle (VI, 51).--§ 579: SECOND DAY: Duryodhana began the battle. (1) Bhīshma shot at Abhimanyu, etc. ()
Arjuna told Kṛshṇa to take his chariot before Bhīshma
“protected by Bhīshma, Droṇa, etc. (), will slaughter the Pāñcālas.” Only Bhīshma, Droṇa, and Karṇa could encounter Arjuna. Bhīshma was protected by Saindhava (i.e. Jayadratha), etc. (). Bhīshma, etc. (), struck Arjuna, who struck Bhīshma, etc. (). Sātyaki, etc. (), surrounded Arjuna. (2) The Pāñcāla prince and the Somakas attacked Droṇa. (3) Bhīshma fought with Arjuna, at the request of Duryodhana, who complained of the absence of Karṇa
Aśvatthāman, etc. (), stood for battle
Bhīshma wounded Kṛshṇa
D., G., Cā., and great Ṛ. said they would be invincible by all the worlds with D., As., and G. (4) See 2 (VI, 52): Continuation of the combat between Droṇa and Dhṛshṭadyumna. (5) Bhīma attacked Droṇa in order to aid Dhṛshṭadyumna, whom he caused to be taken up on another chariot. (6) Urged by Duryodhana, the Kaliṅga king rushed against Bhīma in order to protect Droṇa. (7) Droṇa abandoned Dhṛshṭadyumna and encountered Virāṭa and Drupada. (8) Dhṛshṭadyumna proceeded to support Yudhishṭhira. (9) See 6 (VI, 53): Bhīmasena was supported by the Cedis
the Kaliṅga king by Ketumat (son of the Nishāda king
rājaputraḥ, v. 2354) and Śrutāyus. The Cedis, etc. (), attacked the Nishādas. (10) The Cedis left Bhīmasena and turned back
the Kaliṅga king and his son Śakradeva fought with Bhīma, who slew Śakradeva with his mace. (11) Bhīma attacked Bhānumat (the prince of the Kaliṅgas), and slew him with his sword, dividing him in the middle, and made a great slaughter of men and elephants. (12) Beholding Śrutāyus (the ruler of the Kaliṅgas) at the head of the Kaliṅga troops, Bhīmasena attacked him, was wounded, and taken into his chariot by the charioteer Aśoka
once more he fought with Śrutāyus, and slew him, and Satyadeva, and Satya, and Ketumat, and routed the Kaliṅgas. (13) When, however, the Kaliṅgas were rallied again, Dhṛshṭadyumna, with Śikhaṇḍin, Yudhishṭhira, etc., protected one of the wings of Bhīmasena
there was nobody on earth, save Bhīma and Sātyaki, who was dearer to Dhṛshṭadyumna than his very life
they beheld Sātyaki at a distance
and that [grand]son of Śini took up the wing of both Bhīma and Dhṛshṭadyumna
Bhīma caused a bloody river to flow there. (14) Bhīshma heard the cries, attacked Bhīma, and was attacked by Sātyaki, etc. (). Bhīshma jumped from his chariot, mace in hand, and was taken by Dhṛshṭadyumna on his chariot. Sātyaki slew the charioteer of Bhīshma, who was then carried away from the field of battle by his steeds. The Kaliṅgas were totally routed by Bhīma, who was praised by the Pāñcālas and Matsyas, himself embraced Dhṛshṭadyumna, and was congratulated by Sātyaki, who returned to his own chariot and began to slay the Kurus (VI, 54). (15) When the forenoon of that day had passed away, Dhṛshṭadyumna engaged in battle with Aśvatthāman, etc. ()
he slew the steeds of Aśvatthāman, who got up on Śalya's car. (16) Abhimanyu quickly came up and wounded Śalya, etc. (), but was, in his turn, wounded by Aśvatthāman, etc. (). (17) Lakshmaṇa (the son of Duryodhana) attacked Abhimanyu. (18) Duryodhana attacked Abhimanyu in order to aid Lakshmaṇa. (19) Arjuna engaged in battle with the Kurus, headed by Bhīshma and Droṇa
dust and Abhimanyu's arrows produced complete darkness. The Kurus were routed. Arjuna and Kṛshṇa blew their conches. Bhīshma suggested to Droṇa that they should withdraw the troops, and as the sun set both armies were withdrawn (VI, 55).-§ 580: THIRD DAY
(1) Next morning Bhīshma formed a Garuḍa array
at its beak was Bhīshma himself
its eyes were formed by Droṇa and Kṛtavarman
Aśvatthāman, etc. (), were at its head
Bhūriśravas, etc. (), were placed in its neck
at its back was Duryodhana and his followers
Vinda, etc. (), formed its tail
the Magadhas, etc. (), formed the right wing
the Kārūshas, etc. (), were stationed in the left wing. (2) Arjuna and Dhṛshṭadyumna formed an array in the shape of a half-moon, with Bhīmasena in the right horn, etc. ()
next to Nīla Dhṛshṭaketu, etc. ()
in the middle was Dhṛshṭadyumna, etc. ()
on the left horn was he who had Kṛshṇa for his protector. Then the battle commenced (VI, 56). (3) Arjuna fought with the Kauravas, who could not be broken, as they were protected by Droṇa
and the Pāṇḍavas could not be broken, as they were protected by Arjuna and Bhīma. At last Bhīshma, etc. (), broke the ranks of the Pāṇḍavas. Bhīmasena, etc. (), attacked the Kauravas and fought with Duryodhana, Bhīshma, and Droṇa
Abhimanyu and Sātyaki attacked Śakuni (VI, 57). D., Dā., G., Pś., U., and Rā. eulogized Arjuna. (4) The Gāndhāras, with Śakuni, fought with Sātyaki (the Vṛshṇi hero) and Abhimanyu, and destroyed the chariot of Sātyaki, who mounted Abhimanyu's chariot. (5) Droṇa and Bhīshma attacked Yudhishṭhira, and were attacked by him and the sons of Mādrī. (6) Bhīmasena and Ghaṭotkaca fought with Duryodhana, who was brought away by his charioteer, and his troops fled, pursued by Bhīma. (7) Dhṛshṭadyumna and Yudhishṭhira slew Droṇa's and Bhīshma's army, which fled and could not be checked by by Bhīshma and Droṇa. (8) Abhimanyu and Śaineya began to slaughter the army of Śakuni. (9) Arjuna routed the Kaurava army, and its flight could not be checked by Bhīshma and Droṇa, but was checked by Duryodhana, who blamed Bhīshma, saying that he did not sincerely fight with the Pāṇḍavas, otherwise his troops could not have been routed while Bhīshma, etc. (), were alive
had he known this unwillingness of Bhīshma to fight, he would have consulted Karṇa. Bhīshma said that the Pāṇḍavas were incapable of being vanquished by the very gods, including Indra, but he alone would check them to-day (VI, 58). (10) After the forenoon of that day had passed away, Bhīshma attacked the Pāṇḍavas, and a dreadful battle ensued, in which the Pāṇḍavas were routed. Kṛshṇa told Arjuna to strike Bhīshma, reminding him of his vow to slay all the warriors of Dhṛtarāshṭra's son, headed by Bhīshma and Droṇa. At the request of Arjuna, Kṛshṇa drove the steeds to where Bhīshma was, and the army of Yudhishṭhira rallied for battle. Arjuna and Bhīshma fought
Kṛshṇa displayed great skill in driving the horses
he and Arjuna were both wounded by Bhīshma, and the Pāṇḍava army was routed
Bhīshma ordered Droṇa, etc. (), to attack Arjuna. (11) The grandson of Śini came to Arjuna's rescue
Kṛshṇa applauded him, and, saying that he would slay Bhīshma and Droṇa, etc., he jumped down from the chariot with his discus Sudarśana in his hand, and rushed towards Bhīshma (who welcomed him), but was held back by Arjuna, who said that he would himself slay the Kurus
he was then prevailed upon to mount the chariot once more, where he blew the Pāñcajanya, while arrows were shot from the Gāṇḍīva in all directions. (12) Then Duryodhana, etc. (), attacked Arjuna, who invoked the Māhendra weapon and checked the Kaurava host. (13) Virāṭa, Drupada, etc., approached. Arjuna caused a river of blood to flow there with Rākshasas on its banks. Elated with victory, the Cedis, etc. (), set up a loud shout. The Kurus, including Bhīshma, etc. (), got afraid of the Indra- weapon, and withdrew their forces at sunset. The same did Arjuna. Among the Kurus there was a great uproar: “The Sauvīras, etc. (), have all been slain by Arjuna, and he has vanquished Śrutāyus, etc. ()” (VI, 59).--§ 581: THE FOURTH DAY: (1) When the night had passed away, Bhīshma at the head of the army proceeded against the foe, surrounded by Droṇa, etc. (). The array of the Pāṇḍavas was like that of the day before. Bhīshma (b) attacked Arjuna, and so did Droṇa, etc. ()
Abhimanyu rushed out of the ranks and proceeded against all the foes, but Bhīshma avoided Abhimanyu and fought against Arjuna himself (VI, 60). (2) Aśvatthāman, etc. (), fought with Abhimanyu. (3) Urged by Duryodhana, the Trigartas, etc. (), attacked Arjuna and Abhimanyu. (4) Proceeding towards Arjuna, Dhṛshṭadyumna attacked the Madras, etc. (), and slew Saṃyamani's son (VI, 61). Dhṛshṭadyumna fought with Śalya. (5) Abhimanyu attacked Śalya. Duryodhana, etc. (), protected the chariot of Śalya. Bhīmasena, etc. (), fought with them. (6) Bhīmasena, with his mace, attacked Duryodhana, who advanced with the Magadha-division, and placing the ruler of Magadha before himself, Bhīmasena jumped from his chariot and slew the elephants with his mace
the Draupadeyas, etc. (), protected Bhīma's rear
Abhimanyu slew the Magadha king after having slain his elephant (VI, 62). (7) Duryodhana commanded his entire army to slay Bhīmasena, who crushed them with his mace, without being abandoned by Dhṛshṭadyumna, etc. (). (8) Bhīshma attacked Bhīmasena. (9) Sātyaki (Śinipravīraḥ) attacked Bhīshma. (10) Only the Rā. Alambusha fought with the grandson of Śini. (11) Only Somadatta's son Bhūriśravas was then of good cheer
he attacked Sātyaki (VI, 63). (12) Duryodhana and his brothers surrounded Somadatta's son
Bhīmasena encountered the Dhārtarāshṭras, who were headed by Duryodhana
Nandaka (Dhārtarāshṭra) also attacked Bhīmasena, who addressed his charioteer Viśoka, that he should drive the steeds with care
Duryodhana also wounded Viśoka
Duryodhana struck Bhīmasena so that he swooned away. (13) The Pāṇḍava army, headed by Abhimanyu, showered arrows on Duryodhana
Bhīmasena regained consciousness and fought against Duryodhana and Śalya, who was borne away from the battle. (14) Fourteen Dhārtarāshṭras, viz. Senāpati, etc. (), encountered Bhīmasena, who slew Senāpati, etc. ()
the remaining six fled. (15) Urged by Bhīshma, the whole Dhārtarāshṭra army attacked Bhīmasena
the Prāgjyotisha king Bhagadatta, on a huge elephant, struck Bhīmasena, who fell in a swoon. (16) Then the Rā. Ghaṭotkaca, by help of his illusive force, appeared riding on an Airāvata, followed by the other Dignāgas (), each with four tusks and mounted by Rākshasas, and attacked Bhagadatta's elephant. (17) Bhīshma urged Droṇa and Duryodhana to rescue Bhagadatta
all the kings, headed by Droṇa, proceeded to aid Bhagadatta
Yudhishṭhira, with the Pāñcālas and Pāṇḍavas, pursued them from behind
Ghaṭotkaca uttered a flerce roar
Bhīshma, addressing Droṇa, caused the army to withdraw, and so did the Pāṇḍavas with Bhīmasena and Ghaṭotkaca. Duryodhana was afflicted with sorrow (VI, 64). Dhṛtarāshṭra complained to Sañjaya, and asked what was the cause of the victory of the Pāṇḍavas. Sañjaya explained that victory sides with righteousness, and related how Duryodhana in the night had enquired of Bhīshma, on whom the Pāṇḍavas were relying to vanquish Droṇa, etc. (). Bhīshma had related this ancient history: In days of old all the gods and Ṛshis were assembled by Brahmán upon Gandhamādana
and when Brahmán, together with the Ṛshis and gods, beheld an excellent chariot in the sky, he hymned Nārāyaṇa (). “…Therefore take birth in the race of Yadu and slay the sons of Diti… Having created the divine Saṅkarshaṇa out of thy own self by thyself, thou didst then, O Kṛshṇa, create thyself as Pradyumna, born of thyself
from Pradyumna thou didst then create Aniruddha, who is known as the eternal Vishṇu
and it was Aniruddha who created me as Brahmán, the upholder of the Universe. Created out of Vāsudeva, I have therefore been created by thee. Dividing thyself into portions, take birth among human beings, and slaughtering the Asuras there …thou wilt again truly attain to Yoga…” (VI, 65). Requested by D., R., and G., Brahmán explained to them who Nārāyaṇa is. “Those Dai. and Dā. and Rā. who were slain in battle have been born among men.” The old Ṛshis Nara and Nārāyaṇa are Arjuna and Kṛshṇa. Kṛshṇa should never be disregarded as if he were a man. This was heard by Bhīshma from Ṛshis, etc. (). “Never go to war with Kṛshṇa and the Pāṇḍavas
on account of thy folly thou couldst not apprehend this
I regard thee, therefore, as a wicked Rākshasa.” “Where Kṛshṇa is, there is righteousness
and victory is where righteousness is…It is Kṛshṇa who always imparts an understanding endued with righteousness and strength in battle to the Pāṇḍavas, and who always protects them from danger…He it is who, towards the close of the Dvāpara yuga and the beginning of the Kali yuga, is hymned by Saṅkarshaṇa according to the Sātvata ritual” (VI, 66). Bhīshma, on the authority of Mārkaṇḍeya, declared the origin and glory of Kṛshṇa, his deeds and creations, to Duryodhana () (VI, 67). Bhīshma cited a hymn to Nārāyaṇa, uttered by Brahmán himself, and communicated in days of old by B.-ṛ. and G. on earth. Brahmán, who quoted Nārada, etc. (), hymned Nārāyaṇa as the god of D., S. etc. () (VI, 68).--§ 582: FIFTH DAY: After the night had passed away, Bhīshma proceeded in a Makara array, the Pāṇḍavas in a Śyena array, in whose beak, etc., was Bhīmasena, etc. (). (1) Bhīmasena, penetrating the Makara array through its mouth, attacked Bhīshma
the Pāṇḍavas were confounded. (2) Then Arjuna attacked Bhīshma. (3) Duryodhana addressed Droṇa, who attacked Sātyaki (the grandson of Śini). (4) Bhīmasena attacked Droṇa in order to protect Sātyaki. (5) Droṇa, etc. (), attacked Bhīmasena. (6) Abhimanyu and the Draupadeyas attacked the Kurus
Śikhaṇḍin attacked Bhīshma and Droṇa
Bhīshma avoided him. (7) Urged by Duryodhana, Droṇa protected Bhīshma
Śikhaṇḍin avoided Droṇa. (8) Duryodhana protected Bhīshma, who was attacked by the Pāṇḍavas with Arjuna at their head (VI, 69). An awful carnage ensued. (9) Duryodhana and the Kāliṅgas placed Bhīshma at their head and attacked the Pāṇḍavas
the Pāṇḍavas, supporting Bhīma, attacked Bhīshma (VI, 70). Arjuna (b) attacked Bhīshma with the Gāṇḍīva (c)
the Kurus were afraid and seemed to melt away. (10) Then, with steeds of the Kāmboja breed, the Kāliṅga king, etc. (), surrounded Śakuni. Bhīshma, etc., fought with Arjuna, etc. ()
Drupada, etc. (), fought with Droṇa
Kṛpa and Kṛtavarman attacked Dhṛshṭadyumna (VI, 71). Arjuna encountered Droṇa, etc. (). Sātyaki, etc. (), attacked Śālva and the Kaikeyas. Dhṛshṭaketu and Ghaṭotkaca attacked the chariot-division of the Dhārtarāshṭras. Bhīshma checked Bhīmasena. Sātyaki (Yuyudhāna) attacked Bhīshma, but had his charioteer slain. Bhīshma slew the Pāṇḍava forces
but the Pāñcālas and the Somakas again attacked Bhīshma. (11) Dhṛshṭadyumna, etc., attacked Bhīshma
Bhīshma, Droṇa, etc., attacked the Pāṇḍavas (VI, 72). Virāṭa. Aśvatthāman. Duryodhana. Bhīshma. Arjuna. Bhīmasena. Abhimanyu attacked Citrasena, etc. (). (12) Duryodhana attacked Abhimanyu, and so did Lakshmaṇa (grandson of Dhṛtarāshṭra), who had his steeds and charioteer slain, and was carried away by Kṛpa on his chariot. The Sṛñjayas fought with the Kurus with their fists
Bhīshma slew the troops of the Pāṇḍavas with his celestial weapons (VI, 73). (13) Sātyaki (Yuyudhāna) slew innumerable foes with his arrows
Duryodhana despatched 10, 000 chariots against him, but he destroyed them all with his celestial weapons. Sātyaki & Bhūriśravas (d)
Sātyaki's combatants fled and abandoned him
ten sons of Yuyudhāna & Bhūriśravas (son of Bāhlīka's son Somadatta) towards the afternoon
Bhūriśravas slew them
Sātyaki & Bhūriśravas, each of them slew the other's chariot-steeds
Bhīmasena took Sātyaki up on his own chariot, and Duryodhana Bhūriśravas on his. (14) The Pāṇḍavas & Bhīshma
Duryodhana urged 25, 000 to slay Arjuna, who, however, slew them all. The Matsyas and Kekayas surrounded Arjuna and Abhimanyu. At sunset Bhīshma caused the troops to be withdrawn, and so did the Pāṇḍavas and the Sṛñjayas (VI, 74).--§ 583: THE SIXTH DAY: After the night had passed away, the Kurus and the Pāṇḍavas once more set out for battle. Yudhishṭhira caused Dhṛshṭadyumna to dispose the troops in the Makara array: Drupada and Arjuna = head
Sahadeva and Nakula = two eyes
Bhīmasena = beak
Abhimanyu, etc. () = neck
Virāṭa and Dhṛshṭadyumna = back
five Kekaya brothers = left wing
Dhṛshṭaketu and Cekitāna = right wing
Kuntibhoja and Śatānīka = two feet
Śikhaṇḍin, etc. () = tail. Bhīshma disposed his army in the form of a huge crane: Droṇa = beak
Aśvatthāman and Kṛpa = two eyes
Kṛtavarman, etc. () = head
Śūrasena and Duryodhana = neck
the Prāgjyotisha king, etc. () = breast
the Prasthala king Suśarman = left wing
the Tushāras, etc. () = right wing
Śrutāyus, etc. () = rear. The Pāṇḍava army was protected by Bhīmasena, etc. ()
the Kaurava army by Bhīshma, etc. (). (1) Bhīmasena & Droṇa, who had his charioteer slain and then himself restrained his steeds. (2) Slaughtered by Droṇa and Bhīshma, the Sṛñjayas and Kekayas took to flight
and so did the Kauravas, mangled by Bhīma and Arjuna (VI, 75). Dhṛtarāshṭra recounted the excellency of the Kaurava army, protected by Droṇa, etc. (). Neither men nor Ṛshis of old ever beheld such an army. That it should yet be slaughtered, he thought was due only to fate (or to the Creator)
Vidura had spoken well, but the wicked Duryodhana would not accept (VI, 76). (3) Bhīmasena & the younger brothers of Duryodhana: Duḥśāsana, etc. ()
Bhīma left his chariot and took up his mace. (4) Dhṛshṭadyumna (forsaking Droṇa) proceeded towards Śakuni
seeing Bhīma's empty chariot, he became afflicted, but was comforted by the words of Viśoka
he took Bhīma, who was surrounded by foes on all sides, into his chariot. (5) The Dhārtarāshṭras (Duryodhana, etc.) & Dhṛshṭadyumna (who applied the weapon Pramohana). (6) Droṇa & Drupada (who left the battle)
the Somakas were struck with fear. (7) Droṇa, with the weapon Prajñā, neutralized the Pramohana weapon in order to rescue Dhṛtarāshṭra's sons. (8) Yudhishṭhira sent the Kaikeyas, etc. (), headed by Abhimanyu, arrayed in a Sūcīmukha, to help Bhīma and Dhṛshṭadyumna
Dhṛtarāshṭra's troops were quite helpless, like a lady in the streets. (9) Dhṛshṭadyumna, causing Bhīma to be taken into the chariot of the Kekaya king, attacked Droṇa, who slew his charioteer and steeds
Dhṛshṭadyumna ascended the chariot of Abhimanyu
Droṇa broke the Pāṇḍava army (VI, 77). (10) Duryodhana & Bhīma (who ascended his own chariot)
Bhīma & Citrasena, etc. (11) Yudhishṭhira sent 12 chariot-warriors (Abhimanyu, etc.) to follow Bhīmasena from behind
seeing them, the Dhārtarāshṭras abandoned Bhīma. In the afternoon Duryodhana attacked Abhimanyu and Bhīmasena
Abhimanyu & Vikarṇa, who had his steeds slain and mounted on the chariot of Citrasena
Abhimanyu & Durjaya and Vikarṇa
Duḥśāsana & the five Kekaya brothers
Draupadeyāḥ & Duryodhana (VI, 78). Duryodhana (b) & Bhīmasena (who said that he, by slaying D., would dispel the sorrows of Kuntī, etc.) (). (12) The Sindhu king came to the rescue of Duryodhana
Kṛpa caused Duryodhana to mount his own chariot
Jayadratha & Bhīmasena. (13) Dhṛshṭaketu, etc. (), & the sons of Dhṛtarāshṭra
Abhimanyu & Vikarṇa (who had his charioteer and steeds slain, and was himself pierced)
Durmukha & Śrutakarman (who had his steeds slain)
Sutasoma took Śrutakarman into his own chariot
Śrutakīrti & Jayatseṅa (Dhārtarāshṭra)
Śatānīka & Jayatsena
Dushkarṇa & Śatānīka, who slew Dushkarṇa
Śatānīka was surrounded by foes. (14) The five Kekaya brothers & the sons of Dhṛtarāshṭra: Durmukha, etc. (). About sunset Bhīshma broke the ranks of the Pāṇḍavas
and so did Yudhishṭhira, having smelt the heads of Dhṛshṭadyumna and Bhīmasena (VI, 79). Duryodhana sought Bhīshma in the night and gave expression to his grief at the success of the Pāṇḍavas
Bhīshma promised to do his best, at which Duryodhana was delighted (VI, 80).--§ 584: THE SEVENTH DAY: Bhīshma said to Duryodhana that he himself, etc. (), were all prepared to battle for his sake
that the Pāṇḍavas could not be vanquished by the very gods including Indra, having Kṛshṇa for their ally, etc.
but that he would either vanquish them or be vanquished by them. He gave Duryodhana a herb of great efficacy for healing his wounds. At dawn Bhīshma disposed his troops in a Maṇḍala array (description), protected by Bhīshma, who was again protected by Citrasena, etc.
Duryodhana looked like Śakra himself. Then the Dhārtarāshṭras began to proceed, facing the west. Yudhishṭhira disposed his troops in a Vajra array. (|) Droṇa & the Matsya king
Aśvatthāman & Śikhaṇḍin
Duryodhana & Dhṛshṭadyumna
Nakula and Sahadeva & the Madra king
Vinda and Anuvinda & Irāvat
many kings & Arjuna
Bhīmasena & Kṛtavarman Hārdikya
Abhimanyu & Citrasena, etc. () (sons of Dhṛtarāshṭra)
Ghaṭotkaca & the Prāgjyotisha king
Alambusha & Sātyaki
Bhūriśravas & Dhṛshṭaketu
Yudhishṭhira & king Śrutāyus
Cekitāna & Kṛpa. Others proceeded against Bhīma, and thousands against Arjuna, among others the Trigarta king with his brothers. D., D.-ṛ., G., and U. wondered, beholding the two Kṛshṇas (i.e. Kṛshṇa and Arjuna). Arjuna invoked the Aindra weapon
the foes fled, but were rescued by Bhīshma (VI, 81). (2) After Suśarman had ceased fighting, and the Kuru army had been routed by Arjuna, and Bhīshma had proceeded against the chariot of Arjuna, Duryodhana exhorted the kings and Suśarman to protect Bhīshma, who resembled the planet Śukra (Venus) and was surrounded by the Trigartas. Droṇa & the Matsya king (Virāṭa), who mounted the chariot of Śaṅkha (his son), who was slain by Droṇa
Virāṭa fled. Śikhaṇḍin & Aśvatthāman
Śikhaṇḍin descended, fought first with a sword, then mounted Sālyaki's chariot. Sātyaki & Alambusha
Sātyaki employed the Aindra weapon which he had obtained from Arjuna, and destroyed the creations of Alambusha's illusive power
Alambusha fled. Dhṛshṭadyumna & Duryodhana, who was forced to descend, mounted Śakuni's chariot. Kṛtavarman & Bhīmasena
Kṛtavarman went to the chariot of Vṛshaka in the very sight of Śalya and Duryodhana (VI, 82). Dhṛtarāshṭra spoke to Sañjaya about the cheerfulness of the Pāṇḍavas and the cheerlessness of the Kurus, which he thought was destiny. (3) In the forenoon: The two Avanti princes & Irāvat (the daughter's son of the king of the Nāgas)
Anuvinda mounted the chariot of Vinda
the horses ran away with the chariot. Ghaṭotkava & Bhagadatta
D., G., and Ṛ. came there
except Ghaṭotkaca, the other Pāṇḍava warriors fled, but rallied. (4) The Prāgjyotisha king & Ghaṭotkaca, who fled. The ruler of the Madras (Śalya) & the twins
Nakula must mount the chariot of Sahadeva
Śalya was borne away by his charioteer (VI, 83). When the sun reached the meridian: Yudhishṭhira & Śrutāyus
D., G., and Rā. trembled
R. and D. prayed for the peace of the world
Śrutāyus fled, and the troops of Duryodhana turned away. Cekitāna & Kṛpa
Cekitāna was forced to descend and took up a mace, and then a sword
Karakarsha took Cekitāna into his chariot, and Śakuni took Kṛpa into his. Dhṛshṭaketu & Bhūriśravas (the son of Somadatta)
Dhṛshṭaketu mounted the chariot of Śatānīka. Citrasena, etc. (), & Abhimanyu, who did not slay them, remembering Bhīma's words. Arjuna caused Kṛshṇa to direct the chariot against Bhīshma
Arjuna & Suśarman (VI, 84)
many were slain by Arjuna. (5) The Trigarta king and thirtytwo others attacked Arjuna, who slew sixty (so C.) chariotwarriors, and sped to kill Bhīshma. (6) The Trigarta king attacked Arjuna
Śikhaṇḍin, etc., came to his rescue
Arjuna shot at them with the Gāṇḍīva. (7) Duryodhana, with Jayadratha, etc., came to protect Bhīshma against Arjuna, who, avoiding them, attacked Bhīshma, as did also Yudhishṭhira, etc. (), avoiding the Madra king. Kṛpa, etc. (), shot at the Pāṇḍavas. Śikhaṇḍin fled, but, rebuked by Yudhishṭhira, who reminded him of his oath, he again attacked Bhīshma. Śalya & Śikhaṇḍin, who employed the Vāruṇa weapon. Bhīmasena (mace in hand) & Jayadratha
Citrasena & Bhīmasena (VI, 85)
Citrasena mounted on Vikarṇa's chariot. Bhīshma & Yudhishṭhira (accompanied by the twins), who mounted Nakula's chariot. Yudhishṭhira urged the kings to slay Bhīshma. Śikhaṇḍin & Bhīshma, who disregarded him, remembering that he had formerly been a wife
the Sṛñjayas & Bhīshma. (8) Dhṛshṭadyumna and Sātyaki slaughter the Kuru army. (9) Vinda and Anuvinda attacked Dhṛshṭadyumna, who mounted Sātyaki's chariot. (10) Yudhishṭhira attacked Vinda and Anuvinda, protected by Duryodhana. (11) Arjuna fought against many foes. (12) Droṇa began to consume the Pāñcālas like fire a heap of cotton. (13) Duryodhana and his brothers surrounded Bhīshma and fought against the Pāṇḍavas. At sunset Rā., Pś., etc., were seen all around. At sunset Arjuna (having vanquished Suśarman, etc.), Yudhishṭhira with his brothers, Bhīmasena (having vanquished Duryodhana, etc.), Duryodhana (protecting Bhīshma), Droṇa, etc., proceeded to their tents (VI, 86).--§ 585: THE EIGHTH DAY: Having passed the night, the Kauravas and Pāṇḍavas once more proceeded to battle. Duryodhana, etc. (), formed the array, having Bhīshma with the Mālavas, etc., in the van ()
next to him was Droṇa with the Pulindas, etc. ()
next to Droṇa was Bhagadatta with the Magadhas, etc. ()
behind him was the Kośala king Bṛhadbala with the Melakas, etc. ()
next to him the Prasthala king Traigarta, etc. ()
next to the Trigarta king was Aśvatthāman
next to him Duryodhana with the whole army and his brothers
behind him Kṛpa. Urged by Yudhishṭhira, Dhṛshṭadyumna formed a Śṛṅgāṭaka array: Bhīmasena and Sātyaki, etc. = the horns
next to them Arjuna and Kṛshṇa
Yudhishṭhira, etc. () = the centre
Abhimanyu, etc. () = rear. Description of the battle. Bhīshma & Dhṛshṭadyumna (VI, 87). Yudhishṭhira & Bhīshma. Bhīmasena & Bhīshma, who was protected by Duryodhana and his brothers
the steeds ran away with Bhīshma
Bhīmasena slew eight sons of Dhṛtarāshṭra: Sunābha, etc. (). Then the other sons of Dhṛtarāshṭra all fled away. Duryodhana urged his brothers to kill Bhīma. They remembered the words of Vidura. Duryodhana blamed Bhīshma, who reminded him of the words of Droṇa, etc. () (VI, 88). Dhṛtarāshṭra complained to Sañjaya that his sons, though assisted by Droṇa, etc. (), were still slain
“What can be the reason save fate?” He regretted that the wicked Duryodhana had not obeyed Bhīshma, etc. (). Sañjaya said that Dhṛtarāshṭra ought to have restrained his sons from gambling. At noon the whole Pāṇḍava army, at the command of Yudhishṭhira--Dhṛshṭadyumna, etc. ()-rushed against Bhīshma alone. Arjuna, etc. (), rushed against all the kings under the command of Duryodhana. A third body was formed of Abhimanyu, etc. (). Droṇa slew the Somakas and Sṛñjayas
Bhīmasena, principally the elephant division of the Kurus
Nakula and Sahadeva, the cavalry
the Pāṇḍavas were destroyed by Bhīshma, etc. () (VI, 89). Śakuni and Kṛtavarman Hārdikya attacked the Pāṇḍavas. With horses of the Kāmboja, etc. (), breed Arjuna's son Irāvat (b) attacked the Kauravas, and with his steeds brought about great confusion in their cavalry. Śakuni + his six brothers Gaja, etc. (), & Irāvat, who slew them except Vṛshabha. Duryodhana urged Ṛshyaśṛṅga's son the Rā. (c) [Alambusha] (who hated Bhīmasena because he had killed Baka) to slay Irāvat
both of them had recourse to magic
Nāgas came to the rescue of Irāvat, but were consumed by a phantom in the form of Garuḍa: then Irāvat became confounded and was slain by [Alambusha]. Arjuna, etc. (), slew many. Both armies fought as if they were all possessed by Rākshasas and demons (rakshobhūtair
B. rakshobhūtā) (VI, 90). Ghaṭotkaca, etc., & Duryodhana + the Vaṅga king with 10, 000 elephants
Duryodhana slew four Rā.: Vegavat, etc. ()
Ghaṭotkaca threatened Duryodhana with revenge for the exile of the Pāṇḍavas, etc. () (VI, 91)
the Vaṅga king, mounted on his elephant, placed himself between Ghaṭotkaca and Duryodhana
Ghaṭotkaca slew the elephant. Bhīshma sent Droṇa, etc. (), to the rescue of Duryodhana (VI, 92). Bhīma, urged by Yudhishṭhira, came to the rescue of Ghaṭotkaca, with Satyadhṛti, etc. (). The Kurus left Ghaṭotkaca and fled (VI, 93). Duryodhana & Bhīmasena, who was wounded
Abhimanyu, etc., & Duryodhana
urged by Droṇa, Somadatta, etc. (), attacked the Pāṇḍavas
Droṇa & Bhīma
Nīla & Aśvatthāman
Aśvatthāman & Ghaṭotkaca + many other Rā.
Droṇa & Rā.
Ghaṭotkaca confounded Aśvatthāman by magic
the Kurus and Droṇa, etc. (), seemed to fly, etc.
then, towards sunset, the Kuru troops fled, notwithstanding the words of Sañjaya and Bhīshma (VI, 94). Duryodhana complained to Bhīshma that he had not himself been able to slay Ghaṭotkaca. Bhīshma said Duryodhana should always battle with Yudhishṭhira, etc. (), while Bhīshma, etc. (), would battle against Ghaṭotkaca
or Bhagadatta should fight against Ghaṭotkaca. Urged by Bhīma, Bhagadatta, on his elephant Supratīka, set out against the foes. Bhagadatta & Bhīmasena (b), etc. (). Bhagadatta & the five Kekaya princes, etc. ()
wounded by the Prāgjyotisha king, the elephant of the Daśārṇa king fled
Ghaṭotkaca & Bhagadatta
D., G., and Munis wondered
Bhagadatta wounded Viśoka (Bhīma's charioteer)
Bhīma descended, taking up his mace
Arjuna came
Duryodhana sent a division
Bhagadatta attacked Yudhishṭhira
Bhagadatta & the Pāñcālas, etc. ()
Bhīmasena told Kṛshṇa and Arjuna about the slaughter of Irāvat (VI, 95). Arjuna complained to Kṛshṇa about Irāvat's death, the killing of kinsmen, etc., quoting Vidura, etc. In the afternoon: Droṇa + Dhṛtarāshṭra's sons & Bhīmasena
Bhīshma, etc. (), & Arjuna
Kṛtavarman + Bāhlīka & Sātyaki
Ambastha & Abhimanyu
Bhīma felled Vyūḍhoraska, etc. (). Then the other sons of Dhṛtarāshṭra fled. Ambastha got upon the chariot of Kṛtavarman. Dhṛshṭadyumna, etc., battled with the Kurus. When dark set in, both parties withdrew their armies (VI, 96). Duryodhana consulted Śakuni, etc. (), as to why Droṇa, etc. (), did not resist the Pārthas. Karṇa asked Duryodhana to see Bhīshma and solicit him to withdraw from the battle in order to permit Karṇa to fight the foe. Duryodhana set out for Bhīshma's tent (description), and asked Bhīshma to retire if he was not competent to slay the Pāṇḍavas, etc. () (VI, 97). Bhīshma spoke to Duryodhana about the invincibility of the Pāṇḍavas, mentioning the Khāṇḍava forest, etc. (), and Kṛshṇa (citing Nārada and other great Ṛ.)
he promised to display all his valour on the next day
only Śikhaṇḍin--who was really Śikhaṇḍinī--he would not slay. Duryodhana told Duḥśāsana to let all their twenty-two divisions protect Bhīshma against Śikhaṇḍin, especially Śakuni, etc. (). Thus they proceeded to battle. “Yudhāmanyu protected Arjuna's left wheel, Uttamanjas his right wheel, and Arjuna protected Śikhaṇḍin.” Arjuna told Dhṛshṭadyumna to place Śikhaṇḍin before Bhīshma
he would himself be his protector (VI, 98).--§ 586: THE NINTH DAY: Bhīshma disposed his troops in a Sarvatobhadra array: Kṛpa, etc. (), in the van
Droṇa, etc. (), on the right wing
Aśvatthāman, etc. () = left wing
Duryodhana, etc. (), in the midst
Alambusha and Śrutāyus in the rear. Yudhishṭhira, etc. (), stood in the van
then there were Dhṛshṭadyumna, etc. (). The Kuru troops were headed by Bhīshma, the Pāṇḍava troops by Bhīmasena (VI, 99). Description of the heroism of Abhimanyu, confounding Kṛpa, etc. (). Duryodhana despatched Alambusha to slay Abhimanyu, while they, headed by Bhīshma and Droṇa, would slay Arjuna. Alambusha & Abhimanyu
Alambusha slaughtered the Pāṇḍava host
the Draupadeyas (especially Prativindhya) & Alambusha (VI, 100). Dhṛtarāshṭra asked Sañjaya what was done by Alambusha, etc. (). Alambusha & Abhimanyu, who defeated him. Bhīshma & Abhimanyu, who slaughtered the Kaurava army. Arjuna (surrounded by the Pāṇḍavas) & Bhīshma (protected by Dhṛtarāshṭra's sons)
Kṛpa & Arjuna
Sātyaki & Kṛpa
Sātyaki & Aśvatthāman
Droṇa & Sātyaki
Arjuna & Droṇa (VI, 101)
Duryodhana despatched Suśarman to take up the wing of Droṇa
the Trigarta king (and his son) & Arjuna
D. and Dā. were highly gratified
Arjuna employed the Vāyavya weapon, Droṇa the Śaila weapon
the Trigarta division turned away
Duryodhana, etc. (), surrounded Arjuna
Bhagadatta, etc. (), surrounded Bhīma
Bhūriśravas, etc. (), & the twins
Bhīshma (+ the sons of Dhṛtarāshṭra) & Yudhishṭhira
Bhīmasena, with his mace, slaughtered the elephants. Duryodhana's troops fled (VI, 102). Bhīshma & the Somakas
Dhṛshṭadyumna, etc. (), & Bhīshma
the Draupadeyas, etc. (), & Bhīshma
the Kuru army protected Bhīshma, who slaughtered the Pāṇḍava army
the combatants censured Duryodhana, who urged Bhīshma, etc. (), to fight (VI, 103). Arjuna slew all the followers of Suśarman
Duryodhana (+ Bhīshma) & Arjuna. At noon: Sātyaki & Kṛtavarman
Drupada & Droṇa
Bhīmasena & Bāhlīka
Abhimanyu & Citrasena, who mounted the chariot of Durmukha
Droṇa & Drupada, who retreated
Bāhlīka mounted the chariot of Lakshmaṇa
Sātyaki & Bhīshma
the Pāṇḍavas attacked Bhīshma in order to rescue Sātyaki
battle between them and the Kurus (VI, 104). At the request of Duryodhana, Duḥśāsana protected Bhīshma. Śakuni checked Nakula, etc. (). Duryodhana despatched 10, 000 horsemen, who were checked by Yudhishṭhira, etc. (). Duryodhana urged Śalya against Yudhishṭhira
Śalya & Yudhishṭhira, etc. ()
Bhīma came to the rescue of Yudhishṭhira. When the sun was sinking, there commenced a fierce and terrible battle (VI, 105). Bhīshma & Bhīma, etc. (). Droṇa & Sātyaki (+ Bhīmasena). Bhīshma & the Sauvīras, etc. ()
Bhīshma & 14, 000 Cedis, etc. (), who were slain. Kṛshṇa urged Arjuna to slay Bhīshma (mentioning his words by Virāṭa). Arjuna & Bhīshma. Kṛshṇa left his chariot, and rushed at Bhīshma, whip in hand, but was brought back by Arjuna (VI, 106). When the sun set, both parties withdrew their forces. The Pāṇḍavas, etc. (), sat down for a consultation about Bhīshma
Kṛshṇa said that Arjuna, etc. (), were invincible, mentioning Arjuna's words at Upaplavya (). Yudhishṭhira proposed to go to Bhīshma himself and ask him the means of his death. Kṛshṇa approved of the proposal, and they went to the tent of Bhīshma, who advised Arjuna to fight with him, placing Śikhaṇḍin before himself. Arjuna grieved at the prospect of striking Bhīshma, but was reminded by Kṛshṇa of his vow to slay Bhīshma (the words of Bṛhaspati to Indra in days of old also being quoted). The Pāṇḍavas and Kṛshṇa went away with rejoicing hearts (VI, 107).--§ 587: THE TENTH DAY: Towards sunrise the Pāṇḍava army went out for battle, placing Śikhaṇḍin in their van
Bhīmasena and Arjuna became the protectors of his wheels
in his rear were the Draupadeyas and Abhimanyu, protected by Sātyaki and Cekitāna
behind them was Dhṛshṭadyumna, protected by the Pāñcālas
next to him was Yudhishṭhira with the twins
next behind him Virāṭa
next to him Drupada
the five Kekaya brothers and Dhṛshṭaketu protected the rear. At their head the Kurus had Bhīshma (b), protected by Dhṛtarāshṭra's sons
next behind them Droṇa and Aśvatthāman
next behind was Bhagadatta with his elephant division
behind him Kṛpa and Kṛtavarman
behind them the Kāmboja king Sudakshiṇa, etc. (). The Pārthas with Arjuna at their head, placing Śikhaṇḍin in the van, proceeded against Bhīshma. Bhīma, etc. (), slew many. Bhīshma & Pāṇḍavas, etc. ()
Bhīshma & Śikhaṇḍin (who mentioned Bhīshma & Rāma Jāmadagnya)
Arjuna urged Śikhaṇḍin to slay Bhīshma, while Arjuna would check Droṇa, etc. () (VI, 108). Bhīshma slew the Pāñcālas and the Pāṇḍava army. Arjuna slew the Kuru army. Duryodhana complained of Arjuna before Bhīshma, and of Sātyaki, etc. (). Bhīshma said he would “to-day” either be slain or slay the Pāṇḍavas, and he slew hundreds of thousands (VI, 109). Urged by Arjuna, Śikhaṇḍin, and so also Dhṛshṭadyumna, etc. (), attacked Bhīshma
Citrasena & Cekitāna
Kṛtavarman & Dhṛshṭadyumna
Somadatta's son & Bhīmasena
Vikarṇa & Nakula
Kṛpa & Sahadeva
Durmukha & Ghaṭotkaca
Duryodhana & Sātyaki
the Kāmboja king Sudakshiṇa & Abhimanyu
Aśvatthāman & Virāṭa + Drupada
Droṇa & Yudhishṭhira
Duḥśāsana & Arjuna + Śikhaṇḍin
etc.
Dhṛshṭadyumna (exciting the troops for aiding Arjuna) & Bhīshma
Arjuna could not advance further than to the chariot of Duḥśāsana, who also shot at Kṛshṇa
Duḥśāsana for a moment sought refuge by Bhīshma
then he again attacked Arjuna (VI, 110)
Alambusha & Sātyaki
Bhagadatta & Sātyaki
Duryodhana & Sātyaki
the Kāmboja king & Abhimanyu
Śikhaṇḍin & Bhīshma
Virāṭa + Drupada & Bhīshma
Aśvatthāman & Virāṭa + Drupada
Kṛpa & Sahadeva
Vikarṇa & Nakula
Durmukha & Ghaṭotkaca
Kṛtavarman & Dhṛshṭadyumna
Bhūriśravas & Bhīmasena
Droṇa & Yudhishṭhira
the Prabhadrakas began to tremble
Citrasena & Cekitāna
Arjuna compelled Duḥśāsana to retire, and then crushed the Kuru troops
Duḥśāsana again resisted him (VI, 111). Droṇa became cheerless upon beholding unfavourable omens ()
mentioning Śikhaṇḍin and Yudhishṭhira, etc. (), he urged Aśvatthāman to attack Śikhaṇḍin and Bhīmasena (VI, 112). Bhagadatta, etc. () (ten warriors urged by Droṇa) & Bhīmasena, who was also attacked by Duryodhana
Jayadratha mounted the chariot of Citrasena
Viśoka was wounded by Śalya
Arjuna came, placing Śikhaṇḍin before himself, and approached Bhīma. Then Duryodhana urged the Trigarta king (who ruled Prasthala) Suśarman to slay Arjuna and Bhīmasena
Suśarman & Arjuna + Bhīmasena (VI, 113)
Arjuna & Śalya, etc. ()
Jayadratha also attacked Bhīma
so did also Śalya, who also shot at Kṛshṇa
Droṇa + the Māgadha king Jayatsena (commanded by Duryodhana) & Arjuna + Bhīmasena
Jayatsena was carried away by his steeds. Then Bhīshma, etc. (), & Bhīmasena + Arjuna
Dhṛshṭadyumna & Bhīshma
Śikhaṇḍin & Bhīshma
Yudhishṭhira, etc. (), & Bhīshma. A terrible battle ensued, mainly turning upon whether Bhīshma should be victorious or vanquished (VI, 114). At Bhīshma's own request: Yudhishṭhira + Arjuna, etc. (), & Bhīshma, who gave up all desire of protecting his own life. Urged by Duryodhana, Droṇa, etc. () (placing Bhīshma in their van), & the Pārthas (headed by Śikhaṇḍin), especially Arjuna, etc. ()
the grandson of Śini (Sātyaki) & Aśvatthāman
Dhṛshṭaketu & Paurava
Yudhāmanyu (B. Abhimanyu) & Duryodhana
Virāṭa & Jayadratha (Vṛddhakshattrasya dāyādaṃ
I do not understand the doubt of PCR.)
Yudhishṭhira & Śalya
Bhīmasena & the elephant division
Dhṛshṭadyumna & Droṇa
Bṛhadbala (c) & Abhimanyu (d)
the sons of Dhṛtarāshṭra, etc., & Śikhaṇḍin + Arjuna (VI, 115)
Abhimanyu & Duryodhana
Aśvatthāman & Sātyaki
Paurava & Dhṛshṭaketu
Jayatsena (Dhārtarāshṭra) carried Paurava away on his chariot, and Sahadeva carried away Dhṛshṭaketu
Citrasena & Suśarman
Abhimanyu & Bṛhadbala (the Kośala king)
Bhīmasena slaughtered the elephants
Yudhishṭhira & Śalya
Jayadratha & Virāṭa
Droṇa & Dhṛshṭadyumna
Arjuna & Bhīshma
Bhagadatta & Arjuna, who urged Śikhaṇḍin to slay Bhīshma
Bhagadatta (leaving Arjuna) & Drupada
Arjuna (placing Śikhaṇḍin ahead) & Bhīshma
the Kurus attacked Arjuna
Śikhaṇḍin attacked Bhīshma
14, 000 Cedis, etc. (), were slain by Bhīshma, and so the Somakas
no chariot-warrior ventured to approach Bhīshma except Arjuna (with Kṛshṇa) and Śikhaṇḍin (VI, 116). Bhīshma did not defend himself against Śikhaṇḍin, whom Arjuna urged to quickly slay Bhīshma, who with his arrows only checked Arjuna and slew the Pāṇḍava warriors. Duḥśāsana & Arjuna + all the Pārthas
Duḥśāsana was vanquished by Arjuna
the Videhas, etc. () (urged by Duryodhana) & Arjuna, who consumed them all by means of celestial weapons
Arjuna & Duḥśāsana, etc. (), who fled (in the forenoon)
Bhīshma (with a celestial weapon) & Arjuna
Śikhaṇḍin & Bhīshma, who withdrew the celestial weapon (VI, 117). Śalya, etc. (), slaughtered the Pāṇḍava warriors
Arjuna felled a great many Kurus. Dhṛtarāshṭra's sons & the Pāṇḍavas
the Somakas and Sṛñjayas (urged by Dhṛshṭadyumna) & Bhīshma (who relied on the instruction he had got from Rāma)
Bhīshma slew 10, 000 elephants, etc., and seven Matsyas and Pāñcālas, and Śatānīka (the brother of Virāṭa), etc. Kṛshṇa urged Arjuna to slay Bhīshma. The Pāñcāla king and Dhṛshṭaketu, etc. (), were afflicted by Bhīshma and rescued by Arjuna
Śikhaṇḍin, protected by Arjuna, rushed against Bhīshma
Arjuna slew all Bhīshma's followers, and then rushed at himself
Sātyaki, etc. (), attacked Bhīshma, who slew seven warriors of Dhṛshṭadyumna's division (VI, 118). Continuation: The extraordinary heroism of Bhīshma: he (disregarding the Pāñcāla king and Dhṛshṭaketu) & Sātyaki, etc. ()
Arjuna (with Śikhaṇḍin ahead) & Bhīshma
Droṇa, etc. () (employing celestial weapons), & Arjuna
Sātyaki, etc. (), & the Kauravas, in order to rescue Arjuna
Arjuna (with Śikhaṇḍin) & Bhīshma, who (remembering the boon granted by his father) now wished his death, which was approved of by Ṛ. and V. (heard only by Bhīshma and Sañjaya), etc.
Bhīshma said to Duḥśāsana that Arjuna was invincible, and that he himself could not be vanquished by D., Dā., and Rā. Yudhishṭhira urged his troops against Bhīshma
Dhṛtarāshṭra's sons surrounded Bhīshma, but fled for Arjuna
the Sauvīras, etc. (), abandoned Bhīshma. A little before sunset Bhīshma fell down from his chariot with his head to the east
there were heard celestial voices, etc.
as the sun was in the southern solstice, Bhīshma postponed his death
Gaṅgā sent to him the great Ṛ. in form of swans inhabiting the Mānasa lake. The Kurus, headed by Kṛpa and Duryodhana, sighed and wept
the Pāṇḍavas and Sṛñjayas, etc. (), uttered loud shouts. Ṛ. and P. applauded Bhīshma, who had recourse to that Yoga which is taught in the great Upanishads (VI, 119). Dhṛtarāshṭra, mentioning Bhīshma's brahmacarya for the sake of his father, and that he had not been slain by Rāma Jāmadagnya, grieved that he had been slain by Śikhaṇḍin. Sañjaya related that Bhīshma lay on his bed of arrows, without, however, touching the earth. Both the Kurus (Karṇa, Duryodhana, etc.) and the Pāṇḍavas were despondent
the welkin was enveloped with a gloom, etc.
Ṛ., Si., and Cā. mentioned his brahmacarya for his father's sake. The Pāṇḍavas blew their conches, and Bhīmasena sported in great glee. Duḥśāsana informed Droṇa, who fell down from his chariot, and then ordered the Kurus to desist from battle
and so did the Pāṇḍavas. Then the kings of both armies all repaired to Bhīshma. Bhīshma's head hanging down, he asked a pillow
he refused the soft pillows offered him, and asked Arjuna to give him a suitable pillow
Arjuna supported his head with three arrows shot from the Gāṇḍīva and inspired with mantras
Bhīshma was highly gratified. He caused Duryodhana to dismiss the physicians
he asked that a ditch should be dug around him, until the sun should proceed towards the direction occupied by Vaiśravaṇa (i.e. the north), and told them to cease fighting. Stationing guards all around for his protection, the heroes repaired for rest in the evening. Kṛshṇa congratulated Yudhishṭhira, “that canst slay with thy eyes alone”
Yudhishṭhira ascribed the victory to Kṛshṇa (VI, 120).--§ 588: THE ELEVENTH DAY: After the night had passed away, maidens came to Bhīshma and showered flowers upon him. The Pāṇḍavas and Kauravas assembled together like brothers around his body. Bhīshma asked for water
he refused the excellent viands and water offered him, and asked Arjuna to give him water
Arjuna mounted his chariot, and from the Gāṇḍīva shot an arrow inspired with mantras and identified with the Pārjanya weapon, piercing therewith the earth, and there arose a jet of pure and cold water
Bhīshma praised Arjuna: “even Nārada spoke of thee as an ancient Ṛshi”
he mentioned his alliance with Kṛshṇa, and regretted that Duryodhana had not listened to the words of Bhīshma, etc. (). He said to Duryodhana that the weapons appertaining to Agni, etc. (), were known only to Arjuna and Kṛshṇa, and told him to make peace, as long as Yudhishṭhira, etc. (), did not consume his troops
“let Yudhishṭhira go to Indraprastha.” But Duryodhana would not accept his counsels (VI, 121). All the kings retired. Karṇa visited Bhīshma in private. Bhīshma told Karṇa that he was not the son of Rādhā, but of Kuntī
that he knew from Nārada and Vyāsa
“sinfully didst thou come into the world
therefore it is that thy heart has been such, and also because thou didst associate with the low”
he mentioned that, proceeding to the city of Kāśi, Karṇa alone, with his bow, had crushed the kings in battle in order to procure a bride for the Kuru king
Jarāsandha could not become a match to Karṇa in fight. He adjured Karṇa to unite with his uterine brothers. Karṇa mentioned that Kuntī had abandoned him, and his obligations to Duryodhana, etc. ()
he would fight Arjuna and the Pāṇḍavas though they were protected by Kṛshṇa. Bhīshma gave permission to Karṇa to fight, making heaven his goal, and then dismissed him (VI, 122).