Srimad Bhagavad Gita Shloka 1.5

Shloka 1.5

“Dhrishtaketu, Chekitana, and the valiant king of Kashi, Purujit, Kuntibhoja, and Shaibya, the best of men.”

Key Teaching: Duryodhana continues listing the Pandava army’s notable warriors.

Theme: Observation, Conflict, Karma Yoga.

Description:
In shloka 1.5, Duryodhana continues his survey, naming Dhrishtaketu (Chedi king), Chekitana (Yadava warrior), the valiant king of Kashi, Purujit, Kuntibhoja, and Shaibya as key Pandava warriors. This verse, continuing 1.4, deepens the context of the Kurukshetra war’s scale, as Duryodhana assesses his opponents for Dronacharya. The themes of observation, as Duryodhana evaluates the enemy, conflict, as he highlights the war’s stakes, and Karma Yoga, as the stage is set for duty’s exploration, are central.

In the Mahabharata, Duryodhana’s listing (1.2–1.11) reflects his growing concern, contrasting with Arjuna’s later emotional conflict (1.28–46). These warriors—Dhrishtaketu, Chekitana, and others—represent the Pandavas’ diverse alliances, amplifying the war’s moral complexity, which Krishna will address through Karma Yoga (2.47). The teaching foreshadows the need for detached action, as Duryodhana’s focus on external strength contrasts with Arjuna’s inner struggle.

Philosophically, the verse underscores the diversity of forces in conflict, a theme refined with Arjuna’s despair over fighting allies (1.28). Duryodhana’s tactical focus reveals his attachment, which Krishna will later urge Arjuna to transcend (2.47). The Gita’s focus on Karma Yoga will guide Arjuna to act without ego, unlike Duryodhana’s fear. The verse connects to the war’s prelude (1.1).

Sanjaya’s narration ensures objective clarity. This verse serves as a metaphor for life’s complex challenges, where diverse forces must be faced. Krishna’s teachings will redirect focus to inner duty, aligning with moksha. The naming resonates with the Mahabharata’s portrayal of a fractured alliance, intensifying Arjuna’s impending crisis.