Section XXVII - Sanjaya's Advice to Pandava: Do not Perish in War
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section XXVII 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:
Sanjaya advises the Pandavas to not engage in war, as life is transient and can end in great infamy. He urges them to pursue virtue and righteousness over worldly desires, warning them of the consequences of committing sin. Sanjaya reminds them of their past deeds and sacrifices, and questions why they would now choose a path that goes against wisdom and righteousness.
He emphasizes the importance of controlling one's anger and urges the Pandavas to practice forbearance instead of giving in to wrath, which leads to sinful acts. Sanjaya questions the Pandavas' motives for engaging in war, pointing out that even if they were to win the earth, they would still face the inevitable cycles of life and death. He advises them to consider the futility of seeking bliss through violence and destruction.
Sanjaya expresses concern for the Pandavas' well-being and urges them to prioritize virtue and righteousness over power and wealth. He warns them of the consequences of not following the path of righteousness and the potential harm that could come from engaging in battle. Sanjaya highlights the importance of living a life of integrity and wisdom, and cautions against giving in to worldly desires and temporary pleasures.
He acknowledges the Pandavas' past deeds and sacrifices, praising their virtues and advising them to continue on the path of righteousness. Sanjaya warns against the dangers of succumbing to anger and pride, urging the Pandavas to consider the long-term consequences of their actions. He appeals to their sense of duty and reminds them of the importance of upholding moral and ethical principles in all aspects of life.
Through his advice, Sanjaya encourages the Pandavas to seek peace and harmony rather than conflict and violence. He reminds them of the impermanence of life and the importance of cultivating virtues such as patience, wisdom, and compassion. Sanjaya's words serve as a reminder for the Pandavas to always strive for righteousness and integrity, even in the face of adversity.
Full English translation:
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Section XXVII, 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 XXVII:
What advice does Sanjaya give to Pandava in the story?
Sanjaya advises Pandava to avoid war, focus on virtue, and shun desires for wealth. He emphasizes the transient nature of life and the importance of righteous conduct.
Why does Sanjaya warn against pursuing sinful deeds in the story?
Sanjaya believes that engaging in sinful deeds will lead to suffering and ruin, both in this life and in the afterlife. He encourages Pandava to prioritize virtue and righteousness.
What message about anger and warfare does Sanjaya convey in the story?
Sanjaya warns against giving in to anger, which can lead to sinful actions like warfare. He urges Pandava to practice forbearance and avoid unnecessary conflict for a peaceful and virtuous life.
Daily life: Sanjaya's Advice to Pandava: Do not Perish in War:
The passage emphasizes the impermanence of life and the enduring value of virtuous actions over the pursuit of desires and material wealth. It suggests that living a life grounded in virtue and moral integrity is more fulfilling and rewarding than one driven by the thirst for power or possessions. The narrative advises against yielding to desires that lead away from a virtuous path, highlighting that such pursuits often lead to suffering and negative consequences.
In daily life, this can be applied by prioritizing ethical conduct and kindness over the relentless chase for personal gain or pleasure. It suggests finding satisfaction in acts of generosity and compassion, and in living a life aligned with one’s moral values. Instead of focusing on accumulating wealth or achieving status, one should seek to cultivate qualities like honesty, patience, and humility, recognizing these as sources of true happiness and fulfillment.
The story also warns against allowing anger and resentment to guide actions, illustrating that these emotions can lead to destructive outcomes and detract from one's moral character. It advocates for forgiveness and understanding as means to maintain peaceful and harmonious relationships. By embodying these principles, one can lead a contented life, contributing positively to the well-being of others and securing a legacy of respect and admiration.