Mahabharata Shanti Parva – वृद्धं बलं न हन्तव्यं नैव सत्री न च वै दविजः

Shloka (श्लोक)

वृद्धं बलं न हन्तव्यं नैव सत्री न च वै दविजः
तृणपूर्णमुखश चैव तवास्मीति च यॊ वदेत

⚡ Quick Meaning

The elderly, the weak, and women should not be harmed; whoever declares ‘I am that’ (with the spirit) is not to be killed.

Translations

English Translation

This verse highlights the essential need to protect those who are vulnerable, like the elderly, women, and the weak, stressing the importance of compassion even in conflicts, and serves as a guideline for moral conduct in warfare.

हिंदी अनुवाद

यह श्लोक कमजोर लोगों, जैसे बुजुर्गों, महिलाओं और निर्बलों की सुरक्षा की अनिवार्यता को उजागर करता है, संघर्ष के दौरान सहानुभूति के महत्व को रेखांकित करता है, और युद्ध में नैतिक आचार के लिए एक दिशा-निर्देश के रूप में कार्य करता है।

Commentary

Context

This shloka emerges in the context of discussing ethics in warfare in the Shanti Parva, highlighting a compassionate philosophy of combat.

Meaning

It serves as a powerful reminder of the ethical considerations during warfare, advocating for the protection of the defenseless and reinforcing core values of humanity.

Application

This encourages us to stand against harm towards vulnerable individuals, promoting compassion and ethical standards in all aspects of life.