Mahabharata Shanti Parva – न चार्थबद्धः कर्माणि धर्मं वा कं चिद आचरेत

Shloka (श्लोक)

न चार्थबद्धः कर्माणि धर्मं वा कं चिद आचरेत
गृहस्थ वृत्तयस तिस्रस तासां निःश्रेयसं परम

⚡ Quick Meaning

One should not perform any action or follow any duty for material gain.

Translations

English Translation

This verse emphasizes that one should refrain from performing actions or duties with the intent of personal gain. It highlights that among the three categories of householder duties, the ultimate welfare can only be attained through selfless actions dedicated to the well-being of others.

हिंदी अनुवाद

यह श्लोक इस बात पर जोर देता है कि किसी भी कार्य को या कर्तव्यों का पालन निस्वार्थ भावना से करना चाहिए, न कि भौतिक लाभ के लिए। यह बताता है कि गृहस्थ जीवन के तीन प्रकारों में से सर्वोत्तम कल्याण केवल दूसरों की भलाई के लिए किए गए निस्वार्थ कार्यों के माध्यम से प्राप्त किया जा सकता है।

Commentary

Context

This verse is part of the Shanti Parva, which discusses the importance of righteous living and duties of a householder. It serves as a guideline for fulfilling responsibilities while maintaining ethical integrity.

Meaning

The essence of this shloka lies in the idea that duties should not be tied to personal ambitions. Instead, the focus should be on how actions contribute to the larger good of society.

Application

In contemporary life, this teaching encourages selfless acts and community service, reminding individuals to prioritize collective welfare over personal gains.