Mahabharata Anushasana Parva – नाहं काषायवसना नापि वल्कलधारिणी

Shloka (श्लोक)

नाहं काषायवसना नापि वल्कलधारिणी
न च मुण्डा न जटिला भूत्वा देवत्वम आगता

⚡ Quick Meaning

This shloka expresses that spiritual realization does not depend on external appearances like clothing or hairstyle.

Translations

English Translation

The essence of this verse is that one’s divine nature cannot be determined by external dress or physical attributes such as being shaven or having matted hair. True essence is beyond appearance.

हिंदी अनुवाद

इस श्लोक का तात्पर्य है कि किसी के दिव्य स्वरूप का निर्धारण बाहरी वस्त्र या भौतिक गुण जैसे मुंडित या जटी के होने से नहीं किया जा सकता। असली स्वरूप दृश्यता से परे है।

Commentary

Context

This shloka appears in the Anushasana Parva, emphasizing the values of true spirituality over superficial attributes.

Meaning

The verse teaches that spiritual merit is unrelated to clothing or outward appearances, urging individuals to seek inner truth.

Application

In practice, this shloka reminds us to focus on one’s character and intrinsic qualities rather than external appearances when evaluating ourselves or others.