Mahabharata Anushasana Parva – एक एव चरेद धर्मं न धर्मध्वजिकॊ भवेत

Shloka (श्लोक)

एक एव चरेद धर्मं न धर्मध्वजिकॊ भवेत
धर्मवाणिजका हय एते ये धर्मम उपभुञ्जते

⚡ Quick Meaning

One should follow righteousness alone; becoming a trader of righteousness means exploiting it.

Translations

English Translation

This verse emphasizes that true adherence to righteousness is singular and does not allow for exploitation. Becoming a trader of dharma—selling or profiting from righteousness—dilutes its essence and intent.

हिंदी अनुवाद

यह श्लोक यह बताता है कि धर्म का पालन केवल एक ही होना चाहिए; धर्म का व्यापारी बनना उसे गलत तरीके से भुनाने के समान है। धर्म का लाभ उठाने से इसके मूल और उद्देश्यों की गंभीरता कम होती है।

Commentary

Context

Positioned within the Anushasana Parva, this verse offers crucial moral guidance on authentic living and the commercialism of ethics.

Meaning

It warns against using righteousness for personal gain, advocating for genuine ethical behavior devoid of ulterior motives.

Application

This serves as an impetus to live a life of true virtue, free from the temptations of using ethics as a means to an end.