Section CCXIX - Creation of Five Tribes and Fifteen Gods by Tapa
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CCXIX 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:
Uktha performed a severe penance to have a pious son equal to Brahma, with the help of five sages. A celestial being of great ascetic merit was created with five different colors, representing the five sages, and he began the work of creation by producing various elements and creatures. He created Vrihat and Rathantara, day and night, and also Siva, Indra, wind, fire, hymns, mind, and senses, among others. The being also produced the five sons of the Pitris and fifteen other gods who obstruct sacrifices. These gods, divided into three classes of five each, often hinder the sacrifices of gods in heaven but can be appeased with hymns to prevent interference. Vrihaduktha, another son of Tapa, is worshipped by pious men performing Agnihotra sacrifices, while Rathantara is associated with Mitravinda in sacrifices.
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 CCXIX - Creation of Five Tribes and Fifteen Gods by Tapa, have a look at the following articles:
Section CCXIX, 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 CCXIX:
Who are the twenty-five beings created by Tapas?
Tapas created twenty-five beings, including the five sons of the Pitris and fifteen other gods who obstruct sacrifices. These beings are associated with different deities and have various roles in the creation and hindrance of sacrificial rites.
What is the significance of the celestial being created by Uktha?
The celestial being created by Uktha had five different colors given by five men through their penance. This being, associated with five tribes, played a crucial role in the creation of various elements like fire, day and night, gods, and senses.
Daily life: Creation of Five Tribes and Fifteen Gods by Tapa:
The story of Uktha’s severe penance, leading to the creation of a being with five different colors and the progenitor of five tribes, teaches the importance of dedication and the power of focused efforts towards a noble goal. The celestial being’s creation of various elements and entities, including fire, day and night, and gods, symbolizes the creation of the fundamental aspects of life and the universe through perseverance and spiritual practices. This narrative encourages us to embrace the values of patience, discipline, and steadfastness in our pursuits, whether they are personal, professional, or spiritual.
In our daily lives, we can implement these teachings by setting clear intentions for our goals, dedicating ourselves to consistent practices, such as meditation or continuous learning, to attain these goals, and being patient with the process. The story also highlights the significance of honoring both the creative and destructive aspects of life, acknowledging that both are necessary for growth and balance. By applying these lessons, we can approach our daily tasks and challenges with a sense of purpose, resilience, and a deeper understanding of life's cyclical nature.