Mahabharata Udyoga Parva – तिर्यग्यॊनियाः शूद्रताम अभ्युपैति; शूद्रॊ वैश्यत्वं कषत्रियत्वं च वैश्यः

Shloka (श्लोक)

तिर्यग्यॊनियाः शूद्रताम अभ्युपैति; शूद्रॊ वैश्यत्वं कषत्रियत्वं च वैश्यः
वृत्तश्लाघी क्षत्रियॊ ब्राह्मणत्वं; सवर्गं पुण्यं ब्राह्मणः साधुवृत्तः

⚡ Quick Meaning

Those in lower births can ascend by virtuous actions, while those in higher castes can descend by their actions.

Translations

English Translation

This shloka discusses the fluidity of the caste system, indicating that anyone can rise to higher statuses through righteousness, whereas individuals of higher birth can fall into lower statuses based on their actions, thereby emphasizing the power of ethics over birth.

हिंदी अनुवाद

यह श्लोक जाति व्यवस्था की लचीलापन पर चर्चा करता है, यह दर्शाते हुए कि कोई भी धार्मिक कार्यों द्वारा उच्च श्रेणी में उठ सकता है, जबकि उच्च जन्म वाले व्यक्ति अपने कार्यों के कारण निम्न श्रेणी में गिर सकते हैं, इस तरह नैतिकता की शक्ति को जन्म पर प्राथमिकता दी गई है।

Commentary

Context

This verse sheds light on the dynamic nature of social order and the impact of one’s character. It illustrates the idea that actions dictate status rather than birth alone.

Meaning

The shloka illustrates an essential principle in Hindu philosophy, emphasizing that merit and virtue are more significant than lineage.

Application

This serves as a powerful reminder that ethical behavior and righteous living can elevate anyone, breaking the limitations imposed by societal structures.