Bhagavad Gita 1.11

 

Understanding Bhagavad Gita 1.11 , A Call for Protection of Bhishma

The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred scripture of Hindu philosophy, is a dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Chapter 1, also called Arjuna Vishada Yoga (The Yoga of Arjuna’s Dejection), describes Arjuna’s moral and emotional dilemma before the war begins.

Verse 1.11, The Call to Protect Bhishma

Sanskrit:

अयनेषु च सर्वेषु यथाभागमवस्थिताः |
भीष्ममेवाभिरक्षन्तु भवन्तः सर्व एव हि || 1.11 ||

Transliteration:

Ayaneṣu ca sarveṣu yathā-bhāgam avasthitāḥ
Bhīṣmam evābhirakṣantu bhavantaḥ sarva eva hi

English Translation:

"All of you, stationed in your respective positions in the battle formations, must protect Bhishma alone on all sides."

Hindi Meaning:

इसलिए, आप सभी अपने-अपने स्थानों पर स्थित होकर,भीष्म की पूरी तरह से रक्षा करें। 

Context and Meaning

This verse is spoken by Duryodhana, the Kaurava prince, as he addresses his warriors. The situation is tense—both the Kaurava and Pandava armies are preparing for battle, and Duryodhana, seeing the strength of the Pandava forces, gives strategic instructions to his commanders.

• "Ayaneṣu ca sarveṣu" – Duryodhana instructs his warriors to remain stationed at their designated posts in the various formations (ayaneshu refers to strategic positions in the battle formation).
• "Yathā-bhāgam avasthitāḥ" – He emphasizes that each warrior should stay in their respective places according to the battle plan.
• "Bhīṣmam evābhirakṣantu" – Duryodhana orders his army to protect Bhishma at all costs. Bhishma, the grandsire of the Kauravas and Pandavas, is the commander-in-chief of the Kaurava army and their greatest warrior.
• "Bhavantaḥ sarva eva hi" – He directs all his warriors to focus on shielding Bhishma from any attacks.

Significance of the Verse

1. Strategic Importance of Bhishma:
   Duryodhana knows that as long as Bhishma is leading the Kaurava army, their chances of victory remain strong. By protecting Bhishma, the Kauravas can maintain their morale and fighting power.

2. Duryodhana’s Anxiety:
   This verse also reflects Duryodhana’s underlying fear. Despite having a massive army, he is aware of the Pandavas' strength and Krishna’s presence on their side. His plea to protect Bhishma shows his reliance on the grand warrior rather than his confidence in his own abilities.

3. Symbolism of Bhishma’s Role:
   Bhishma represents dharma (righteousness) in a complicated way—he is duty-bound to fight for the Kauravas even though he knows their cause is unjust. His presence on the battlefield is a paradox: a great warrior fighting for an unrighteous side due to his vow.

Lessons from the Verse

• Leadership and Responsibility: This verse teaches that in any battle (literal or metaphorical), strong leadership plays a crucial role in determining success.
• Strategic Thinking: Duryodhana's order highlights the importance of planning, discipline, and protecting key strengths in any struggle.
• Moral Dilemmas in Duty: Like Bhishma, we sometimes find ourselves bound by duty, even when it conflicts with righteousness. Understanding one's obligations and making ethical choices is a crucial aspect of life.

Conclusion

Bhagavad Gita 1.11 is more than just a military command—it reveals Duryodhana’s desperation, Bhishma’s critical role, and the complexity of duty in war. As the battle of Kurukshetra unfolds, this verse sets the stage for deeper philosophical discussions between Krishna and Arjuna, leading to the profound teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.