Section CLVIII - Yudhishthira Meets Sage Arshtishena on Mount Kailasa
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CLVIII 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:
Yudhishthira, along with Krishna, Bhima, and the twins, meets the vow-observing sage who questions him about his adherence to virtue, respect for elders, and performance of meritorious deeds. Yudhishthira assures the sage that he diligently follows the prescribed duties and customs of his ancestors. Arshtishena tells Yudhishthira about the wonders of the Parvas, where celestial beings like Gandharvas and Apsaras can be seen and heard. He warns Yudhishthira against going beyond the Kailasa cliff, a place where mortals are forbidden to tread. Arshtishena advises Yudhishthira to stay on the mountain until he reunites with Arjuna and not to act impudently in the presence of divine beings. Eventually, Yudhishthira is told he will conquer and rule the earth after enjoying the delights of the Parvas.
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 CLVIII - Yudhishthira Meets Sage Arshtishena on Mount Kailasa, have a look at the following articles:
Section CLVIII, online text
English translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli.
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Mahabharata (English Summary)
by Kisari Mohan Ganguli | 31,635 words | ISBN-10: 8121505933
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FAQ of Mahabharata, Section CLVIII:
What are some of the duties mentioned by the sage Arshtishena to Yudhishthira?
Some of the duties mentioned include honoring parents, following virtue, and avoiding sinful acts.
Where did Arshtishena advise Yudhishthira to stay and what did he caution him about?
Arshtishena advised Yudhishthira to stay on the mountain and warned against entering the celestial region beyond it.
Daily life: Yudhishthira Meets Sage Arshtishena on Mount Kailasa:
The story shared from the Indian epic emphasizes the virtues of honesty, piety, respect for elders, and adherence to one’s duty despite challenging circumstances. In our daily lives, we can embody these principles by being truthful in our interactions, honoring our commitments, and showing respect and care for our family, teachers, and those who guide us. We should strive to contribute positively to society, avoiding actions that harm others and instead focusing on deeds that promote communal well-being and personal growth.
Embracing humility, even in success or power, keeps us grounded and opens our hearts to learning and growth. By respecting nature and understanding our place within it, as the Pandavas did during their interact with the sage, we can live harmoniously with the world around us. Lastly, perseverance in the face of adversity, maintaining our virtues, and believing in the journey can lead to recovery and success, much like the Pandavas who were advised to wait and prepare for the challenges ahead. Such teachings, when applied, can lead to a fulfilling and balanced life.