Chapter 1 is about the setting the scene. Introducing the folks and loads of symbolism.
The fact that Duryodhan was boasting bragging about his position (nervous release in tension). He wants Bhishma to be protected as he is useful to him.
Arjuna starts on an egoistic front & a confident warrior : Let me check out the people who want to fight with me ! And then in delusion and confusion gives logic to all the excuses for not fighting. Attachment wrecks duty.
Arjuna & his chariot has many symbolic messages. The horses depict the senses that start going anywhere if not controlled. Arjun is the mind or the Jiva and Krishna is the Intellect / In-charge.
Note how the mind gets carried away by emotions & intellect needs to guide them back. So depends who has the reigns! The flag has Hanuman denoting devotion of the highest order. Colour of his clothes & horses is white denoting purity.
The 2 armies one almost double of the other in quantity, but quality of intention is what matters.
At Kaurav camp:
Bhishma is there because of his oath (promises sure have an impact!)
Drona as he has eaten food given by Kauravs (we are what we eat!)
Karna feels he owes it to his friend
and so on
At Pandava camp
Being led by God , on the path of righteousness. Not for self but to establish righteousness in the society. ( If a queen like Draupadi can be humiliated so much, what would the destiny of women in such a society be!)
Then there is mention of the Conches names , their significance & history.
At the end of chap 1, the wise & capable Arjun was deluded, confused & sorrowful. Remember Gita as in Krishna advise has not yet started.
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