Section XXI - The Astonishing Beauty of the Ocean: Astika Parva Summary
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section XXI including examples of moral lessons in daily life. The Maha-Bharata is one of the largest epics ever written containing roughly 100,000 Sanskrit verses. It deals with the legendary history of ancient India and contains a large number of interwoven tales.
Short summary of the chapter:
Kadru and Vinata, sisters, made a bet about slavery and went to view the steed Uccaishravas. On their way, they encountered the vast and deep Ocean, abounding with fierce aquatic creatures and considered the abode of various gods and Nagas. The Ocean was described as holy, sacred, and full of nectar, yet also terrifying and turbulent, with its waters disturbed by powerful entities like Lord Govinda. It was the refuge of Mainaka and the Asuras, offering water as sacrificial butter to Varava.
The sisters witnessed the Ocean's grandeur as numerous rivers rushed towards it, each eager to meet it like amorous competitors. The Ocean was always full, dancing in its waves, deep, and teeming with fierce creatures like whales and makaras. The constant and terrifying sounds of aquatic creatures echoed through its vast and limitless expanse, making it a grand reservoir of water. This aquatic wonder was unfathomable in its depth and width, resounding with the fierce competition among the mighty rivers.
Overall, Kadru and Vinata's journey to view the steed Uccaishravas led them to witness the awe-inspiring majesty of the Ocean. This divine body of water was not only a source of nectar and gems but also a place of terror and power. Its beauty and grandeur were matched by its terrifying depths and the fierce creatures that inhabited it. The sisters were left in awe of this seemingly boundless and majestic entity that held such significance in the world of gods and creatures.
Full English translation:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated. If you are looking for authentic sources such as the Sanskrit text or the Full English translation of Mahabharata Section XXI - The Astonishing Beauty of the Ocean: Astika Parva Summary, have a look at the following articles:
Section XXI, online text
English translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli.
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Mahabharata (English Summary)
by Kisari Mohan Ganguli | ISBN-10: 8121505933
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FAQ of Mahabharata, Section XXI:
What were Kadru and Vinata's views on slavery?
The two sisters laid a wager about slavery and went to view Uccaishravas.
What did Kadru and Vinata see on their way to see Uccaishravas?
They saw the vast, deep, and roaring Ocean full of aquatic creatures.
Why is the Ocean considered holy and sacred in the story?
The Ocean is described as the source of nectar, full of gems, and a refuge for various creatures, gods, and demons.
Daily life: The Astonishing Beauty of the Ocean: Astika Parva Summary:
The story from the Astika Parva narrates the encounter of the sisters Kadru and Vinata with the majestic and boundless Ocean on their way to see the steed Uccaishravas. This ocean, described in vivid detail, serves as a powerful metaphor for life's vastness, depth, and unpredictability. In daily life, one can draw inspiration from this narrative to embrace the vast possibilities and the depth of experiences that life offers. Just as the ocean is full of giant creatures, treasures, and is essential for the nourishment of all life, our lives too are filled with challenges, opportunities, and gifts that nourish our growth and development.
The ocean's description as a home to Varuna, the water god, and a refuge for many, teaches us the importance of being a shelter and support to others, fostering a sense of community and care. Furthermore, the ocean's unfathomable nature and its role as the bed of Vishnu during yoga-nidra illustrate the depth of meditation and the subconscious, encouraging individuals to explore inner peace and spirituality.
In implementing this narrative in daily life, one should approach life's challenges and opportunities with curiosity and bravery, much like exploring the vast ocean. It's about being open to life's unpredictability, finding strength in community, and exploring the depths of our own minds and spirits. The story encourages us to embrace life's tumultuous waves with grace and to recognize the endless possibilities that lie before us, encouraging a life of exploration, spirituality, and community support.