Section LXIV - The Birth of Asuras on Earth: Sacred Mythology of Hinduism
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section LXIV 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:
The story tells of how the earth became burdened by the oppressive Asuras who were born on earth and began to spread fear and chaos among all creatures. In desperation, the earth sought protection from the divine Brahman, who then commanded the gods and heavenly beings to take birth on earth and confront the Asuras. The gods, including Indra, accepted the task and sought rebirth on earth in order to restore balance and protect the earth from the tyranny of the Asuras.
The Asuras, born from the lineage of Diti and Danu, were powerful and oppressive beings who instilled fear and destruction among all creatures. They even dared to insult great Rishis and Brahmins in their arrogance. The earth, burdened by their weight and evil deeds, turned to the divine Brahman for protection, leading to the gods' decision to descend on earth in human forms and confront the Asuras to restore peace and balance.
The divine Brahman, aware of the earth's plea for help and the threat posed by the Asuras, commanded the gods and celestial beings to take birth on earth and engage in conflict with the oppressive Asuras. This marked the beginning of a great battle between the forces of good and evil, as the gods assumed human forms to fulfill their mission. The gods, led by Indra and Narayana, the slayer of foes, accepted the task and prepared to descend to earth to confront the Asuras and restore order.
The gods, including Indra and Narayana, prepared to descend on earth in human forms to confront the Asuras and restore balance. With the support of the celestial beings, they planned to engage in a fierce battle with the oppressive Asuras and rid the earth of their tyranny. The story highlights the eternal struggle between good and evil, as the gods and celestial beings take on the powerful Asuras to protect the earth and its inhabitants.
As the gods and celestial beings descended on earth in human forms, they prepared to engage in a mighty battle with the Asuras to restore balance and peace. The story emphasizes the importance of divine intervention and the eternal struggle between good and evil, as the forces of light and darkness clash in a cosmic battle for the protection of the earth and its inhabitants.
Full English translation:
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Section LXIV, 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 LXIV:
What was the reason for the Kshatriya race to thrive on earth?
The Kshatriya race thrived from the union of Kshatriya ladies with Brahmanas. This ensured their virtuous existence and subsequent multiplication.
Why did the Earth seek protection from the Creator?
The Earth sought protection from the Asuras who were born on earth and began oppressing all creatures, including the Brahmanas and other orders.
What did the divine Brahman instruct the gods and creatures to do?
Brahman commanded the gods to be born on earth and engage in strife with the Asuras to ease the Earth of its burden.
Who did the gods approach for guidance and instruction?
The gods approached Narayana, the slayer of foes, at Vaikunth, seeking guidance and instruction on how to fulfill their roles on earth.
Daily life: The Birth of Asuras on Earth: Sacred Mythology of Hinduism:
The story we've delved into speaks profoundly about the cycle of life, virtue, and the constant battle between good and evil, reflecting deeply on the roles and responsibilities each one of us holds in maintaining the balance of our world. In essence, it conveys a message about the importance of righteousness, moral duty, and the collective efforts required to sustain harmony and prosperity in society. Drawing from this narrative, we can implement its teachings into our daily lives by embracing virtues, performing our duties with integrity, and always striving towards the greater good.
Living a virtuous life, characterized by honesty, compassion, and selflessness, creates a ripple effect that influences not only our immediate surroundings but also the larger community. By treating others with respect and kindness, and by acting justly and fairly, we embody the principles that were once upheld by the ideal societies described in the story. It teaches us the significance of contributing positively to society, guiding us to live in a way that supports and uplifts those around us.
Moreover, the story emphasizes the importance of respecting natural cycles and living in harmony with the environment. Just as the creatures in the narrative adhered to their natural seasons and rhythms, so too should we be mindful of our interactions with nature, striving to preserve it for future generations. This involves simple acts such as being conscientious about our consumption, minimizing waste, and protecting natural habitats, which collectively can lead to a healthier and more sustainable world.
Lastly, the narrative encourages us to seek knowledge and wisdom, much like the Brahmanas who dedicated themselves to understanding the Vedas. In our lives, this translates to a pursuit of continuous learning and self-improvement, enriching our minds and spirits, and fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world around us. Through education and personal growth, we equip ourselves to make more informed decisions and to contribute more effectively to society.
In implementing these teachings, we embark on a path that not only enriches our own lives but also contributes to the betterment of society as a whole. By living responsibly, ethically, and with a deep respect for all life, we play our part in sustaining the delicate balance of our world, much like the heroes and demigods of ancient stories who strived to uphold dharma and righteousness in the face of adversity.