Section CXLVII - Krishna's Advice to Pandavas: Unheeded Warnings of Destruction
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CXLVII 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:
After returning from Hastinapura, Krishna informed the Pandavas about his failed attempt to bring peace between them and the Kauravas. Yudhishthira then requested Krishna to recount the words spoken by the elders in the Kuru assembly, including Bhishma, Drona, Dhritarashtra, and others, to dissuade Duryodhana from his path of greed and hatred. Bhishma reminded Duryodhana of his duty towards his lineage and the kingdom, urging him to give half the kingdom to the Pandavas to avoid destruction. Bhishma also highlighted his own sacrifice and commitment to his vow, showing the importance of upholding promises and maintaining peace.
Bhishma recounted the lineage's history, including his vow to remain celibate and his role in ensuring the continuation of the Kuru dynasty through his brother Vicitravirya. He explained how he had sacrificed his own desires for the greater good of the kingdom, even seeking the help of Sage Vyasa to beget children upon his brother's widows. Bhishma emphasized the importance of fulfilling one's responsibilities towards family and kingdom, urging Duryodhana to act wisely and prevent further conflict and suffering. He also spoke of the support he had received from the people and the sages in upholding his vow and maintaining peace.
Bhishma highlighted the sacrifices made by himself and his mother Kali for the sake of the Kuru dynasty and urged Duryodhana to consider the well-being of the kingdom and its people. He implored Duryodhana to listen to the advice of the elders, including himself, Gandhari, and Vidura, and to avoid destroying everything through his greed and arrogance. Bhishma expressed his impartial love for all the Kuru princes and stressed the importance of peace and unity within the family to prevent further suffering and destruction. He also reminded Duryodhana of the consequences of ignoring the words of the wise and virtuous elders in the assembly.
Full English translation:
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Section CXLVII, 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 CXLVII:
What was the vow that Bhishma made for the preservation of his race?
Bhishma vowed to never ascend to the throne and never have children. He made this promise for the sake of his father and their lineage.
Why did Bhishma ask Duryodhana to share the kingdom with the Pandavas?
Bhishma believed that peace and harmony should prevail by sharing the kingdom. He suggested this to avoid conflict and destruction within the Kuru lineage.
What was the reaction of the people towards Bhishma's vow?
The people, including his mother, citizens, priests, and preceptors, urged Bhishma to take the throne for the welfare of the kingdom. They feared the kingdom's ruin without a rightful king.
Daily life: Krishna's Advice to Pandavas: Unheeded Warnings of Destruction:
The story highlights the importance of self-sacrifice, compromise, and the wisdom of elders for the greater good. In our daily lives, this can be implemented by prioritizing the needs and well-being of others above our personal desires, especially in situations where our actions can significantly impact those around us. The character of Bhishma exemplifies the virtue of keeping promises and commitments, even at personal cost, showing that integrity and honor should guide our decisions.
It teaches us to seek peaceful resolutions and listen to the counsel of those more experienced or wiser when faced with conflicts or important decisions. The emphasis on resolving disputes amicably, instead of letting pride or ambition lead to destructive outcomes, serves as a reminder to value harmony and to work towards common goals in our personal and professional relationships.
Ultimately, the narrative encourages us to consider the long-term consequences of our actions on our community and environment, advocating for a selfless approach to leadership and interaction with others. By embodying these principles, we can foster a more compassionate and understanding world.