Section CXIX - Vrishnis and Pandavas at Prabhasa: Valarama questions virtue
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CXIX including examples of moral lessons in daily life. The Maha-Bharata is one of the largest epics ever written containing roughly 100,000 Sanskrit verses. It deals with the legendary history of ancient India and contains a large number of interwoven tales.
Short summary of the chapter:
When the Vrishnis arrived at Prabhasa, Valarama questioned the righteousness of virtuous behavior as Yudhishthira suffered in exile while Duryodhana prospered. He pondered why those who banished the Pandavas were living happily while the virtuous exiles suffered in the forest. He expressed disbelief in the actions of the rulers and wondered how they could face their departed forefathers. Valarama admired the strength and prowess of Bhima, predicting that he would conquer his enemies in battle despite his current hardships in the forest. He also lamented the sufferings of Sahadeva, Nakula, Draupadi, Arjuna, and Yudhishthira, who were all living in distress after being banished from their kingdom.
Full English translation:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated. If you are looking for authentic sources such as the Sanskrit text or the Full English translation of Mahabharata Section CXIX - Vrishnis and Pandavas at Prabhasa: Valarama questions virtue, have a look at the following articles:
Section CXIX, online text
English translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli.
Read this and other chapters online.
Mahabharata (English Summary)
by Kisari Mohan Ganguli | 31,635 words | ISBN-10: 8121505933
Buy the latest edition:
FAQ of Mahabharata, Section CXIX:
What was the conversation between the Vrishnis and the sons of Pandu at Prabhasa?
The Vrishnis questioned why the virtuous suffer while the wicked prosper in the world.
What did Valarama observe about Yudhishthira's virtuous path?
Valarama questioned why Yudhishthira suffered in exile while Duryodhana thrived unjustly.
How did Valarama criticize the actions of Duryodhana?
Valarama condemned Duryodhana's cruelty towards the sons of Pritha and questioned his future consequences.
Daily life: Vrishnis and Pandavas at Prabhasa: Valarama questions virtue:
The story shared from the Mahabharata, through the conversation at Prabhasa, highlights the contrasting fortunes of the virtuous Pandavas and the ostensibly prosperous yet unrighteous Duryodhana. From this, we can draw lessons on resilience, morality, and the belief in karma for our daily lives.
In daily life, we frequently encounter situations where it seems like those who act unethically prosper while the virtuous suffer hardships. This narrative teaches us the importance of steadfastness in our virtues and morals, even when outcomes initially appear unjust. The struggles faced by the Pandavas, despite their steadfast adherence to dharma (righteousness), remind us that the path of righteousness is not always lined with immediate rewards, but requires patience and faith in eventual justice.
Moreover, the discourse encourages us to question the superficial measures of success and prosperity, urging us to look deeper into the essence of true well-being and contentment which often reside in living a life aligned with ethical principles.
It also instills hope that suffering and adversities, much like those faced by the Pandavas, are temporary and often prepare individuals for greater challenges and victories ahead. This perspective can inspire us to face our own daily struggles with courage and integrity, holding onto the belief that righteousness ultimately leads to a fulfilling life, even if the journey seems arduous at the moment.
Lastly, the story subtly advises against the blind emulation of those who might appear successful through questionable means, encouraging a reflective and principled approach to life's challenges and ambitions. It emphasizes the significance of actions driven by moral values, urging us to cultivate virtue and patience in our quest for a meaningful existence.