Section XXXIX [summary]
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section XXXIX 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:
After the departure of the ascetics, Lord Shiva, in the form of a Kirata, appeared in the forest with his consort Uma and a group of spirits and women in Kirata attire. Arjuna, mistaking a Danava named Muka for a boar, tried to slay him but was stopped by Shiva, who claimed to have aimed at the boar first. A fierce battle ensued between Arjuna and Shiva in Kirata form, with both exchanging blows and arrows.
Despite Arjuna's best efforts, Shiva in Kirata form effortlessly bore his attacks and even disarmed him of his celestial bow. Arjuna then tried to attack Shiva with different weapons, but all his efforts were in vain as Shiva remained unscathed and powerful. Eventually, Arjuna became bruised and breathless, unable to move, but Shiva spared his life and praised his courage and prowess, granting him a special weapon and eyes to see him in his true form.
Arjuna worshiped Shiva gratefully, acknowledging him as the supreme lord and seeking his forgiveness for engaging in combat out of ignorance. Shiva, in a gesture of kindness, forgave Arjuna and embraced him, expressing his pleasure at Arjuna's devotion and bravery. The story ends with Shiva consoling Arjuna and bestowing his blessings upon him for his future endeavors, ensuring his victory over all his enemies and granting him divine protection and grace.
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 XXXIX, have a look at the following articles:
Section XXXIX, 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 Section XXXIX:
Who was the Kirata that Arjuna encountered in the forest?
The Kirata was actually the god Shiva in disguise, testing Arjuna's prowess.
What happened when Arjuna and the Kirata engaged in battle?
Despite Arjuna's best efforts, the Kirata, who was Shiva, emerged victorious.
Why did Arjuna worship the Kirata after their battle?
Arjuna realized the true identity of the Kirata as Shiva and sought his forgiveness and blessings.
What did Shiva grant Arjuna after their battle?
Shiva granted Arjuna an irresistible weapon and his protection.
Why did Arjuna seek Shiva's pardon after their battle?
Arjuna regretted engaging in combat with Shiva out of ignorance and sought forgiveness.
What did Arjuna learn from his encounter with the Kirata (Shiva)?
Arjuna learned the importance of humility, seeking forgiveness, and the power of divine intervention.
Mahabharata Section XXXIX in daily life:
The story describes a profound encounter between Arjuna, a devoted and skilled warrior, and Lord Shiva, who appears in the guise of a Kirata. Arjuna, unaware of the Kirata's divine identity, engages in a fierce battle to assert his prowess, only to discover he is fighting with Lord Shiva himself. Despite his initial anger and pride, Arjuna’s eventual realization and humility before the deity underscores the importance of recognizing the divine presence in unexpected forms and situations. This encounter teaches us the value of humility, reverence, and the readiness to recognize our own mistakes and seek forgiveness.
In daily life, this story serves as a reminder to approach the world with humility and openness, recognizing that we may not always understand the full picture or know who we are interacting with. It encourages us to be quick to forgive and to ask for forgiveness, acknowledging our own faults and limitations. Just as Arjuna learns to see the divine in the Kirata, we too can strive to see the inherent worth and potential in everyone we meet, treating them with respect and kindness.
Moreover, the story illustrates the rewards of sincere devotion and the power of perseverance. Arjuna's determination and unwavering focus on his goals, even in the face of what seems like insurmountable challenge, is met with divine grace and favor. This teaches us that in our own pursuits, maintaining faith and dedication, even when outcomes seem uncertain, can lead to profound growth and unexpected blessings.
Ultimately, the narrative encourages us to reflect on our actions and intentions, urging us to live with a sense of purpose, humility, and an open heart. By embodying these values, we can navigate life's challenges more gracefully, build meaningful connections, and remain open to the lessons and opportunities that come our way.