tato bhīṣmo 'bhyavartata nityaṃ pāṇḍavaiḥ saha pāṇḍukaḥ.
“Then Bhiṣma and Pāṇḍuka, were always present along with the Pāṇḍavas.”
Structure
tato bhīṣmaḥ abhyavartata nityaṃ pāṇḍavaiḥ saha pāṇḍukaḥ
tato (then) bhīṣmaḥ (Bhishma) pāṇḍukḥ (son of Pandu) nityaṃ (always) pāṇḍavaiḥ (with Pandavas) saha (together) abhyavartata (used to resort)
Word-by-Word Grammar
| Word | IAST | Type | Grammar | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| tato | tato | indeclinable | — | then, thereafter |
| bhīṣmaḥ | bhīṣmaḥ | noun | nominative · singular · masculine | Bhīṣma |
| abhyavartata | abhyavartata | verb | √vart · past · third | he approached or came |
| nityaṃ | nityaṃ | indeclinable | — | constantly, always |
| pāṇḍavaiḥ | pāṇḍavaiḥ | noun | instrumental · plural · masculine | with the Pāṇḍavas |
| saha | saha | indeclinable | — | with, together |
| pāṇḍukaḥ | pāṇḍukaḥ | noun | nominative · singular · masculine | Pāṇḍuka ( possibly another name for Dhārtarāṣṭra or a generic term for a Pāṇḍu's son ) |
Scholarly Commentary
Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse from the Mahābhārata, when viewed through the lens of Advaita Vedānta, presents an opportunity to reflect on the non-dual nature of reality. Śaṅkarācārya, in his commentaries, often emphasizes the ultimate identity of Brahman and Ātman. Although this specific verse does not directly mention Brahman or Ātman, the presence of Bhiṣma and Pāṇḍuka with the Pāṇḍavas can be seen as a metaphor for the interconnectedness of all beings, hinting at the underlying unity that pervades the universe. This interpretation aligns with Śaṅkarācārya's reasoning in the Brahmasūtra Bhāṣya, where he discusses the concept of 'sarvam khalaṃ brahma' - all this is Brahman. In this context, the characters in the verse represent various aspects of the ultimate reality, underscoring the non-dual perspective that all distinctions are ultimately illusory.
Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse can be seen as exemplifying the relationship between the jīva (individual self) and Īśvara (the Lord). Bhiṣma, with his unwavering dedication to duty and his role as a guardian figure, represents the ideal of devotion and service to a higher cause. His presence alongside the Pāṇḍavas, who are often seen as devotees of Krishna, symbolizes the protective and guiding role of the divine in the lives of those who seek to do good. Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Gītā, emphasizes the importance of prapatti, or surrender to God, as a means to achieve spiritual liberation. This verse can be interpreted through the lens of prapatti, where Bhiṣma's actions and his association with the Pāṇḍavas illustrate the value of surrendering one's actions and will to the divine, mirroring the devotee's relationship with Īśvara.
Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): This verse offers a profound lesson in the importance of harmony and unity, values that are highly relevant in contemporary life. Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, frequently emphasized the need for cooperation and mutual respect among individuals and communities. The image of Bhiṣma and Pāṇḍuka standing together with the Pāṇḍavas can be seen as a powerful symbol of collective action and shared purpose. In his speech at the Parliament of the World's Religions, Vivekānanda spoke about the universal message of Vedānta, emphasizing the unity that underlies all human experience. Similarly, S. Radhakrishnan, in his philosophical works, discussed the concept of 'sarvaṃ ekam' - all is one, highlighting the interconnectedness of all human beings. This verse, in the context of Neo-Vedānta, encourages us to look beyond our differences and work towards a common goal, reflecting the universal principles of unity and cooperation that are essential for creating a more harmonious world.