Mahabharata Udyoga Parva – अशक्तं कषत्रियं मत्वा शस्त्रं गृह्णात्य अथापरः

Shloka (श्लोक)

अशक्तं कषत्रियं मत्वा शस्त्रं गृह्णात्य अथापरः
तराणायाप्य असमर्थं तं मन्यमानम अतीव च

⚡ Quick Meaning

This shloka emphasizes the significance of understanding one’s capabilities in battle.

Translations

English Translation

A warrior who is incapable, when recognized, should not be accepted to hold a weapon. Even someone deemed weak should not be disregarded for the purpose of protection.

हिंदी अनुवाद

एक ऐसा योद्धा जो सक्षम नहीं है, जब पहचाना जाए, तो उसे हथियार थामने की अनुमति नहीं दी जानी चाहिए। यहां तक कि जिसे कमजोर समझा जाता है, उसकी सुरक्षा के उद्देश्य से अनदेखा नहीं किया जाना चाहिए।

Commentary

Context

This shloka is set in the context of recognizing the capabilities of warriors in battle and the ethics of power balance.

Meaning

The essence lies in evaluating a warrior’s true potential rather than his physical might, emphasizing mindful judgment.

Application

This teaches leaders to assess the constructive roles individuals can play, irrespective of their apparent weaknesses.