Section Lxix - The Divine Names of Krishna: An Exalted Male Being
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section Lxix 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:
Dhritarashtra asks Sanjaya to describe Lord Krishna's names, as knowing them will help him attain the highest male being. Sanjaya explains that Krishna is called Vasudeva, Vishnu, Madava, Madhusudana, and several other names, each representing different aspects of his divine nature and qualities. These names signify his enveloping all creatures, all-pervading nature, concentration on truth and Yoga, slaying of the Asura Madhu, eternal peace, and various other attributes that make him the Supreme Soul.
Krishna is described as being born of the Sattvata race, uniting existence and eternal peace, residing in a high and eternal abode, and striking fear into the hearts of wicked beings. He is known as Aja for being unborn, Damodara for his increate effulgence, Hrishikesa for eternal happiness and divinity, and Mahavahu for upholding the earth and the sky with his two arms. Other names like Adhakshaja, Narayana, Purusottama, Sarva, Govinda, Satya, Jishnu, Ananta, and Govinda further highlight his divine attributes and qualities.
Lord Krishna is described as possessing knowledge of all things and having prowess, success, eternity, and knowledge of all types of speech. He is said to make the unreal appear real, beguiling all creatures with his divine nature, righteousness, and unmatched qualities. Sanjaya predicts that Krishna, the mighty-armed one, incapable of decay, will arrive to prevent the impending slaughter of the Kurus, showcasing his divine intervention and protection.
Full English translation:
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Section Lxix, 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 Lxix:
Who is Krishna according to Dhritarashtra and Sanjaya?
Krishna is described as Vasudeva, Vishnu, Madava, Madhusudana, and more. He is eternal and possesses divine attributes, bringing joy and happiness to all.
What are some key names and attributes associated with Krishna?
Krishna is known as Madhava, Janardana, Aja, Hrishikesa, and more. He upholds the universe and is the refuge of all beings, possessing infinite knowledge and eternal presence.
Daily life: The Divine Names of Krishna: An Exalted Male Being:
The story of Krishna's many names as shared by Sanjaya to Dhritarashtra is rich in symbolism and moral lessons that can be applied in daily life. It teaches us about the importance of understanding and embodying different qualities to lead a wholesome and fulfilling life. For instance, Krishna being called Vasudeva for his ability to encompass all creatures with illusion and care, suggests we should strive to be inclusive and kind to everyone around us, recognizing the divine in every being.
Krishna as Madhusudana, the slayer of the demon Madhu, symbolizes the triumph over ignorance and evil with knowledge and goodness. This can inspire us to face our personal challenges and societal evils with the strength of wisdom and righteousness. His name Hrishikesa, embodying joy and divinity, encourages us to find happiness in serving others and leading a life of purpose.
By reflecting on Krishna’s attributes such as supporting the earth (Mahavahu) and being the refuge for all (Narayana), we are reminded to take responsibility for our environment and offer support to those in need. Finally, the name Purusottama teaches us about the cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction, urging us to embrace change, learn from it, and contribute positively to the world around us.
Incorporating these virtues in our daily lives can guide us towards a path of self-improvement and service, helping us to navigate the complexities of life with grace and wisdom.