Bhagavad Gita · Verse 1.10
Chapter 1: Arjuna Vishada Yoga (अर्जुनविषादयोगः)
(Duryodhana spoke)
अपर्याप्तं तदस्माकं बलं भीष्माभिरक्षितम् । पर्याप्तं त्विदमेतेषां बलं भीमाभिरक्षितम् ॥१०॥
aparyāptaṃ tadasmākaṃ balaṃ bhīṣmābhirakṣitam | paryāptaṃ tvidameteṣāṃ balaṃ bhīmābhirakṣitam ||10||
Complete Shloka Translation
Our strength, protected by Bhishma, is boundless, whereas their strength, protected by Bhima, is limited.
Word-by-Word Translation (Padartha / Anvaya)
| Sanskrit Term (पद) | IAST Roman | English Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| अपर्याप्तम् | aparyāptam | immeasurable / boundless (or insufficient) |
| तत् | tat | that |
| अस्माकम् | asmākam | our |
| बलम् | balam | army / military strength |
| भीष्म-अभिरक्षितम् | bhīṣma-abhirakṣitam | well-defended and led by Bhishma |
| पर्याप्तम् | paryāptam | limited / easily measurable |
| तु | tu | whereas / but |
| इदम् | idam | this |
| एतेषाम् | eteṣām | of these (Pandavas) |
| बलम् | balam | strength |
| भीम-अभिरक्षितम् | bhīma-abhirakṣitam | protected by Bhima |
immeasurable / boundless (or insufficient)
that
our
army / military strength
well-defended and led by Bhishma
limited / easily measurable
whereas / but
this
of these (Pandavas)
strength
protected by Bhima
Detailed Commentary & Meaningful Thoughts
This translation reads aparyapta as unbounded and paryapta as bounded. Another established reading contrasts insufficient with sufficient strength, so this sentence must not be treated as an unambiguous declaration of confidence.
Philosophical Reflection & Self-Inquiry
"Duryodhana compares the two forces through the leaders who protect them."
Inquiry Question to Ponder:
What other interpretation should I consider before becoming certain?
Modern Life Implementation (Practical Real-Life Application)
The Fragility of Overconfidence vs. Humble Resolve: Duryodhana claims his army is boundless yet reveals hidden anxiety. False bravado and arrogance mask deep psychological insecurity. Cultivate quiet, grounded competence rather than boastful arrogance.