Mahabharata Sauptika Parva – अदान्तॊ बराह्मणॊ ऽसाधुर निस्तेजाः कषत्रियॊ ऽधमः

Shloka (श्लोक)

अदान्तॊ बराह्मणॊ ऽसाधुर निस्तेजाः कषत्रियॊ ऽधमः
अदक्षॊ निन्द्यते वैश्यः शूद्रश च परतिकूलवान

⚡ Quick Meaning

A Brahmin who is uncontrolled is unrighteous; a Kshatriya lacking valor is lowly; a Vaishya who is inept is criticized, and a Shudra who is discontent is contrary.

Translations

English Translation

This shloka outlines the negative traits associated with each varna when they fail to fulfill their respective duties: an uncontrolled Brahmin is deemed unethical, a cowardly Kshatriya is considered inferior, an inept Vaishya is reproached, and a discontent Shudra is deemed contrary to societal norms.

हिंदी अनुवाद

यह श्लोक प्रत्येक वर्ण के नकारात्मक गुणों को बताता है जब वे अपने-अपने कार्यों को पूरा नहीं करते हैं: एक अनियंत्रित ब्राह्मण अधर्म मान जाता है, एक कायर क्षत्रिय निम्न समझा जाता है, एक अयोग्य वैश्य की आलोचना की जाती है, और असंतुष्ट शूद्र समाज के मानदंडों के खिलाफ समझा जाता है।

Commentary

Context

This verse from the Sauptika Parva underscores the importance of each varna living up to its ethical responsibilities.

Meaning

The verse signifies that failing to adhere to one’s duties leads to social disrepute and a breakdown of harmony.

Application

In modern society, this can be interpreted as the significance of accountability and ethical behavior in all professions for societal cohesion.