05.007
Vaiśampāyana spoke:
Krishna, Balarama, and Madhava went to Dvaraka along with all the Vrishnis, Andhakas, and hundreds of Bhojas.
The king, son of Dhritarashtra, had all the activities of the Pandavas reported to him through messengers and spies.
Upon hearing that Madhava had departed with horses as swift as the wind, he approached the city of Dvaraka with a modest force.
On that same day, Arjuna, the son of Kunti and descendant of Pandu, swiftly traveled to the enchanting city of Anarta.
The two heroes, the best among men and descendants of Kuru, went to Dvaraka and saw Krishna asleep. They approached him as he lay there.
Then, when Govinda was resting, Suyodhana entered and took a seat on the distinguished chair at Krishna's head.
Then the crowned one, with a great mind, followed him and entered. In the latter half, he stood humbly with folded hands before Krishna.
Upon awakening, the descendant of Vṛṣṇi saw the crowned one before him. He welcomed and honored them appropriately, and then Madhusūdana inquired about the reason for their visit.
Then Duryodhana, with a smile, said to Krishna: "In this conflict, you should assist me here."
Indeed, your friendship is equally shared with me and Arjuna; thus, our relationship with you, O Mādhava, is the same.
I have approached you first today, O Madhusudana. Previously, the saints who follow the ancient path have also approached and worshipped.
O Janardana, today you are considered the best among the virtuous in the world; always maintain good conduct and remain respected.
Krishna spoke:
There is no doubt that you have come here before. However, the first person I saw, O king, was Arjuna, the conqueror of wealth.
Before you came and before seeing him, I will indeed help both of you, Suyodhana.
The scriptures state that the invitation should first be extended to the young. Therefore, Arjuna, known as Dhananjaya, is worthy of being invited first.
A vast number of cowherds, renowned as Nārāyaṇa, were all warriors, possessing strength comparable to that of a fish.
They, or the invincible soldiers in battle, may become the soldiers of one; I, not fighting in battle, stand alone, weaponless.
O son of Pritha, you should choose whichever of the two options is more agreeable to you, as you are indeed the most excellent in terms of duty.
Vaiśampāyana spoke:
Upon being addressed by Krishna, the son of Kunti, Arjuna, who was not fighting in the battle, chose Keshava.
O Bharata, upon obtaining a thousand thousands of warriors and realizing that Krishna was taken away, he attained supreme joy.
Duryodhana, the prince, gathered all that army and then approached the mighty Bhima's strength, Rauhiṇeya.
He explained everything about the arrival to him. Then Krishna spoke these words to Dhritarashtra's son.
O tiger among men, you are aware that everything I mentioned earlier during the marriage of Virata is destined to occur.
Hrishikesha, having restrained himself, spoke repeatedly for your sake, O joy of the Kurus, saying that it was equally related by me, O king.
Keshava did not accept that statement. And I cannot stay even for a moment without Krishna.
I am neither a supporter of the sons of Pṛthā nor of Duryodhana. This is my firm decision, having considered Vāsudeva.
You are born in the noble lineage of Bharata, honored by all kings. Proceed to battle with righteousness and fulfill your duty as a warrior, O esteemed prince of the Bharatas.
Having been spoken to in this way, he embraced Halayudha. Knowing that Krishna had been taken away, he considered the victory in battle to be won.
The son of Dhritarashtra, the king, went to Kritavarma, who then provided him with an Akshauhini division of his army.
The descendant of Kuru, accompanied by Bhima and the entire army, returned joyfully, bringing delight to his friends.
After Duryodhana departed, Krishna asked Arjuna why he chose him, knowing he would not fight.
Arjuna said:
There is no doubt that you are capable of destroying them all. I too am capable of destroying them alone, O best of men.
You are renowned in the world, and that fame will reach you. I too desire fame, and that is why I have chosen you.
You should take up the role of a charioteer, as it has always been my long-desired wish.
Vasudeva said:
O son of Pritha, it is fitting that you compete with me. I shall be your charioteer; may your wish be granted.
Vaiśampāyana spoke:
Thus, a joyful Arjuna, accompanied by Krishna and surrounded by the best of the Dasharhas, returned once more to Yudhishthira.
