The Faults of kaurava and Pandav
Arjunas Role in Jayadrathas Death
Arjuna made a vow
to kill Jayadratha (a Kaurava ally) by sunset on the day after Abhimanyus
death, or else he would take his own life. While his vow was driven by grief
and anger, the strategy employed to kill Jayadratha involved deception:
- Using Krishnas
illusion: Krishna created an illusion of the sun setting, which led Jayadratha
to come out of hiding, thinking he was safe. Once exposed, Arjuna killed him.
While it was a strategic move, it involved trickery, raising questions about
the use of dharma.
Bhimas Brutality and
Revenge
Bhima, the second
Pandava, was known for his immense strength, but also for his temper and thirst
for vengeance, especially towards the Kauravas:
- Killing
Duryodhana: In their final duel, Bhima struck Duryodhana on the thigh,
violating the code of honorable combat, which dictated that warriors should not
strike below the waist. This act of revenge was motivated by Duryodhanas insult
to Draupadi (when he had gestured towards his thigh, inviting Draupadi to sit
on it), but it was still seen as a violation of fair combat.
- Killing
Dushasana: Bhimas killing of Dushasana, the Kaurava who had dragged Draupadi
into the court and tried to disrobe her, was particularly brutal. Bhima tore
open Dushasanas chest and drank his blood, fulfilling a vow he had made
earlier. While this act was motivated by revenge, it bordered on barbarism.
Polyandry and
Draupadis Marriage
Draupadis marriage
to all five Pandavas is one of the most debated aspects of the epic. While this
was largely arranged by their mother, Kunti (who unknowingly told them to share
Draupadi), the Pandavas accepted this without question. In the context of
dharma, this was unusual, and it led to various tensions within the family,
especially between Draupadi and Arjuna, her favorite husband.
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