Mahabharata Virata Parva – नैष पूर्वैः समृतॊ धर्मः कषत्रियस्य पलायनम

Shloka (श्लोक)

[बृहन]नैष पूर्वैः समृतॊ धर्मः कषत्रियस्य पलायनम
शरेयस ते मरणं युद्धे न भीतस्य पलायनम

⚡ Quick Meaning

One should not flee from battle; it is better to die honorably than to retreat in fear.

Translations

English Translation

This shloka emphasizes the virtues of bravery and duty in a warrior’s life. It conveys that a Kshatriya (warrior) must not retreat in the face of battle, as fleeing is not commendable. It is better to face death in combat than to abandon the field in fear.

हिंदी अनुवाद

यह श्लोक एक योद्धा के जीवन में साहस और धर्म के गुणों को दर्शाता है। यह बताता है कि एक क्षत्रिय को युद्ध के समय भागना नहीं चाहिए, क्योंकि डर के मारे जीत से भागना प्रशंसनीय नहीं है। युद्ध में मृत्यु का सामना करना बेहतर है।

Commentary

Context

This shloka occurs in the Virata Parva, highlighting the ethos of Kshatriya duty during an intense phase of conflict among the Pandavas.

Meaning

The essence of the shloka is that true valor lies in facing challenges head-on and fulfilling one’s duties without fear of consequences.

Application

In modern terms, this can be applied to embracing challenges and responsibilities in life rather than evading them, showcasing courage in adversity.