Bhagavad Gita · Verse 1.8
Chapter 1: Arjuna Vishada Yoga (अर्जुनविषादयोगः)
(Duryodhana spoke)
भवान्भीष्मश्च कर्णश्च कृपश्च समितिञ्जयः । अश्वत्थामा विकर्णश्च सौमदत्तिस्तथैव च ॥८॥
bhavānbhīṣmaśca karṇaśca kṛpaśca samitiñjayaḥ | aśvatthāmā vikarṇaśca saumadattistathaiva ca ||8||
Complete Shloka Translation
You yourself, Bhishma, Karna, Kripa, victorious in battle, Ashvatthama, Vikarna, and the son of Somadatta are among them.
Word-by-Word Translation (Padartha / Anvaya)
| Sanskrit Term (पद) | IAST Roman | English Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| भवान् | bhavān | Your noble self (Dronacharya) |
| भीष्मः | bhīṣmaḥ | Grandfather Bhishma |
| च | ca | and |
| कर्णः | karṇaḥ | Karna |
| कृपः | kṛpaḥ | Kripacharya |
| समितिञ्जयः | samitiñjayaḥ | ever-victorious in battle |
| अश्वत्थामा | aśvatthāmā | Ashwatthama (son of Drona) |
| विकर्णः | vikarṇaḥ | Vikarna (brother of Duryodhana) |
| सौमदत्तिः | saumadattiḥ | Bhurishrava (son of Somadatta) |
| तथा एव च | tathā eva ca | and likewise also |
Your noble self (Dronacharya)
Grandfather Bhishma
and
Karna
Kripacharya
ever-victorious in battle
Ashwatthama (son of Drona)
Vikarna (brother of Duryodhana)
Bhurishrava (son of Somadatta)
and likewise also
Detailed Commentary & Meaningful Thoughts
The list begins with Drona, who is being addressed, and then names other Kaurava leaders. Naming a warrior in this roster does not by itself establish that every named person is fighting at this particular moment.
Philosophical Reflection & Self-Inquiry
"Duryodhana names the experienced figures on whom his army relies."
Inquiry Question to Ponder:
What experience do others bring that I should recognize?
Modern Life Implementation (Practical Real-Life Application)
Recognizing Experience and Historical Track Records: Listing proven commanders like Bhishma and Kripa emphasizes the stabilizing role of experienced veterans. Combine the fiery dynamism of youth with the deep prudence of seasoned elders for optimal decision making.