Mahabharata Anushasana Parva – चतुर्णाम एव वर्णानां धर्मॊ नान्यस्य विद्यते

Shloka (श्लोक)

चतुर्णाम एव वर्णानां धर्मॊ नान्यस्य विद्यते
वर्णानां धर्महीनेषु संज्ञा नास्तीह कस्य चित

⚡ Quick Meaning

The shloka asserts that righteousness is specific to the four castes and is not applicable to those without a caste’s duties.

Translations

English Translation

This verse states that dharma exists distinctly for the four castes, and there is no dharma attributed to those who lack a caste, hinting at an inherent duty based on one’s social grouping.

हिंदी अनुवाद

यह श्लोक यह बताता है कि धर्म चार जातियों के लिए विशिष्ट है, और जिनके पास कोई जाति नहीं है, उनके लिए कोई धर्म नहीं है, जो कि किसी के सामाजिक समूह पर आधारित कर्त्तव्यों की ओर संकेत करता है।

Commentary

Context

Found in the Anushasana Parva, this verse tackles the philosophical questions regarding caste and duty within society.

Meaning

It conveys that the essence of dharma is intertwined with one’s caste, emphasizing the responsibilities that come with that identity.

Application

This encourages modern societies to rethink rigid caste systems, focusing more on individual actions while considering their cultural backgrounds.