Immeasurable is our strength protected by Bhīṣma; but limited is this strength of theirs protected by Bhīma

The play of Sanskrit words reveals Duryodhana’s psychology. A-paryāptam (without-measure, immeasurable) vs. paryāptam (measured, limited, sufficient). He creates an apparent binary logic: our strength is infinite thanks to Bhīṣma, theirs is finite even though they have Bhīma.

But there is subtle irony. Tv idam (“but this”) suggests unrecognized doubt. Bhīṣma, although powerful, is bound by a vow that limits his emotional loyalty; Bhīma, on the contrary, fights with all his passion. Bhīṣma’s protection has cracks that Duryodhana does not perceive.