Section XIII - Vasudeva's Advice to Prevent Gambling Evil and Calamity
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section XIII 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:
Vasudeva, expressing regret for not being present at the gambling match in Dwaraka, says he would have prevented the game from taking place by showing its evils and seeking the help of influential figures like Bhishma and Drona. He emphasizes the dangers of gambling, explaining how it leads to loss of wealth, distress, and strife among people. Vasudeva regrets not advising the Kuru prince against gambling, as he believes it could have averted the current crisis. He expresses his sorrow at the plight of the Pandavas and vows to support them in their time of need.
Vasudeva reflects on how, if present at the match, he would have warned the Kuru prince about the destructive nature of dice and the consequences of indulging in such games. He would have tried to persuade him to avoid gambling altogether and protect the Kurus from the turmoil that ensued. Vasudeva acknowledges the lure of vices like gambling, which can lead to ruin if not curbed, and regrets not being able to guide the Kuru prince away from this destructive path. Despite his absence, he reassures the Pandavas of his support and readiness to help them in any way he can.
Vasudeva expresses his determination to use force if necessary to prevent the Kuru prince from engaging in harmful activities like gambling, even if it meant standing against his courtiers and so-called friends. He regrets the consequences of his absence and the subsequent suffering faced by the Pandavas due to the events at the gambling match. Vasudeva's sense of responsibility and loyalty to the Pandavas is evident as he vows to protect them and ensure their well-being in the face of adversity.
Vasudeva's arrival in Dwaraka upon hearing of the Pandavas' troubles showcases his compassion and concern for their welfare, despite not being able to prevent their initial downfall. He sympathizes with the brothers and recognizes the gravity of their situation, offering his support and help in any way he can. Vasudeva's actions highlight his loyalty and commitment to the Pandavas, as he rushes to their aid upon learning of their distress. Despite the missed opportunity to prevent the calamity, Vasudeva's presence brings a glimmer of hope to the Pandavas in their time of need.
Full English translation:
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Section XIII, 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 XIII:
Who would have prevented the gambling match in Dwaraka if present?
Vasudeva would have prevented the game by showing its evils and seeking help from others. He would have advised against dice and offered guidance, even resorting to force if necessary.
What are the evils associated with dice mentioned in the story?
Dice can lead to loss of wealth, harsh words, addiction, and distress. Those addicted to dice are aware of its many evils which can result in dire consequences for individuals.
Why did Vasudeva come to see the king with a heart agitated by grief?
Vasudeva heard about the calamity befallen upon the king and his brothers, prompting him to come and offer his support and condolences. He saw them plunged in misfortune and wanted to provide assistance and comfort.
Daily life: Vasudeva's Advice to Prevent Gambling Evil and Calamity:
In the story, Vasudeva, who was not present during a crucial time, expresses deep regret and outlines his intentions if he had been there, emphasizing the importance of intervening to prevent a negative outcome. Through his words, we can grasp the significance of being proactive in addressing potential problems and standing up against harmful practices or decisions, leveraging wisdom and support from experienced individuals. Vasudeva's expression of what could have been done to avoid the disaster brought about by gambling serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of our actions and choices.
Applying this to daily life involves recognizing situations where our intervention, advice, or actions could prevent harm or lead to better outcomes. It teaches the value of wise counsel and the collective experience of those around us to navigate challenging situations. Whether it's in avoiding personal vices or steering others away from damaging decisions, the story underscores the impact of preventive measures and the courage to act against wrongfulness.
Furthermore, Vasudeva's willingness to take drastic measures if his advice were ignored suggests that commitment to what is right might sometimes require bold actions to prevent greater harm. This story encourages not only foresight and wisdom but also the determination to act according to one's principles, showcasing the importance of both advising against potential pitfalls and being prepared to take definitive steps to ensure the well-being of others.