Mahabharata Shanti Parva – पितुर आज्ञां कथं कुर्यां न हन्यां मातरं कथम

Shloka (श्लोक)

पितुर आज्ञां कथं कुर्यां न हन्यां मातरं कथम
कथं धर्मछले नास्मिन्न इमं जेयम असाधुवत

⚡ Quick Meaning

How can I act against my father’s command? How can I kill my mother? In what way can I overcome the wrongfulness of this dharma?

Translations

English Translation

This shloka expresses the intense moral dilemma of adhering to parental commands versus violating ethics and duties associated with familial bonds. It reflects on the internal conflict arising from actions that could harm a mother or go against dharma.

हिंदी अनुवाद

यह श्लोक पारिवारिक बंधनों के प्रति निष्ठा और पितृ आज्ञा को निभाने के बीच नैतिक द्वंद्व को दर्शाता है। यह उन आंतरिक संघर्षों पर विचार करता है जो ऐसे कार्यों से उत्पन्न होते हैं जो माँ को हानि पहुँचाने या धर्म के खिलाफ जाने से संबंधित हैं।

Commentary

Context

This verse from the Shanti Parva reflects the philosophical discussions amongst the characters in the Mahabharata regarding dharma and familial obligations. It highlights the critical moral challenges they face.

Meaning

The essence of this shloka revolves around the conflict between duty to one’s parents and the broader principles of morality. It underscores the struggle between personal attachment and ethical righteousness.

Application

This teaching is applicable in modern contexts where individuals must navigate complex familial duties and ethical decisions, prompting reflection on the importance of maintaining moral integrity.