Significance of Penniless

According to Dharmashastra, the term "Penniless" describes a situation where individuals may end up with nothing if a Brahmana decides to claim all possessions for himself. This highlights the concept of power dynamics and the potential consequences of one individual’s greed on the livelihoods of others within a community. The interpretation emphasizes the broader implications of wealth distribution and morality in the context of social responsibilities.

Synonyms: Bankrupt, Impoverished, Destitute, Indigent, Barren, Poverty-stricken, Needy, Poor

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Penniless'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Penniless" suggests a condition where individuals may possess nothing due to a Brahmana's greed, highlighting themes of inequality and the moral implications of wealth distribution within the social hierarchy.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) Without wealth; refers to a state of being without money.[1]

From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)

(1) Refers to Shrila Swami Maharaja's state when he arrived in the West, highlighting his humble beginnings.[2]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) The state of others potentially having nothing of their own if the Brahmana chooses to take everything for himself.[3]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.