Bhagavad Gita · Verse 1.11
Chapter 1: Arjuna Vishada Yoga (अर्जुनविषादयोगः)
(Duryodhana spoke)
अयनेषु च सर्वेषु यथाभागमवस्थिताः । भीष्ममेवाभिरक्षन्तु भवन्तः सर्व एव हि ॥११॥
ayaneṣu ca sarveṣu yathābhāgamavasthitāḥ | bhīṣmamevābhirakṣantu bhavantaḥ sarva eva hi ||11||
Complete Shloka Translation
Therefore, all of you, stationed in your assigned positions at every approach, must protect Bhishma in particular.
Word-by-Word Translation (Padartha / Anvaya)
| Sanskrit Term (पद) | IAST Roman | English Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| अयनेषु | ayaneṣu | at all the entry fronts and strategic approaches |
| च | ca | and |
| सर्वेषु | sarveṣu | in all positions |
| यथाभागम् | yathā-bhāgam | according to your designated divisions |
| अवस्थिताः | avasthitāḥ | stationed / firmly standing |
| भीष्मम् | bhīṣmam | Grandfather Bhishma |
| एव | eva | above all / particularly |
| अभिरक्षन्तु | abhirakṣantu | protect and guard on all flanks |
| भवन्तः | bhavantaḥ | all of you noble commanders |
| सर्वे | sarve | each and every one |
| एव हि | eva hi | certainly indeed |
at all the entry fronts and strategic approaches
and
in all positions
according to your designated divisions
stationed / firmly standing
Grandfather Bhishma
above all / particularly
protect and guard on all flanks
all of you noble commanders
each and every one
certainly indeed
Detailed Commentary & Meaningful Thoughts
The order follows the comparison of the two forces and names a concrete defensive responsibility. It does not resolve the ambiguity in the preceding verse, since a commander may demand protection whether expressing confidence or concern.
Philosophical Reflection & Self-Inquiry
"Duryodhana makes the protection of Bhishma a shared military priority."
Inquiry Question to Ponder:
Which shared responsibility needs a clear plan from me?
Modern Life Implementation (Practical Real-Life Application)
Coordinated Support for Core Pillar Leaders: Duryodhana instructs everyone to guard Bhishma at all positions. In high-pressure projects, prioritize protecting your most vital systems, critical infrastructure, and core team members.