Mahabharata Shanti Parva – न दुर्जने दौष्कुले वा वरतैर वा यॊ न संस्कृतः

Shloka (श्लोक)

न दुर्जने दौष्कुले वा वरतैर वा यॊ न संस्कृतः
अश्रॊत्रिये मृतं दानं बराह्मणे ऽबरह्म वादिनि

⚡ Quick Meaning

A person who is not cultured should not be given charity nor should one give to a Brahmin who advocates against the Vedas.

Translations

English Translation

This shloka emphasizes the need to discern the character and knowledge of individuals before offering charity. Giving to those who undermine cultural values or knowledge can lead to misappropriation of goodwill.

हिंदी अनुवाद

यह श्लोक इस बात पर जोर देता है कि दान देते समय व्यक्तियों के चरित्र और ज्ञान का आकलन करना आवश्यक है। जो व्यक्ति सांस्कृतिक मूल्यों या ज्ञान को कमजोर करते हैं, उन्हें दान देने से बचना चाहिए।

Commentary

Context

This verse appears in the context of social ethics in the Shanti Parva, guiding individuals on the importance of intent and integrity while giving.

Meaning

The deeper meaning focuses on the responsibilities of the giver and the consequences of misguided charity which might perpetuate ignorance or negativity.

Application

This shloka serves as a reminder to assess the moral and intellectual qualifications of those we help, reinforcing educated charity as a principle in society.