Mahabharata

Definition

The Mahabharata is one of the two major Sanskrit epics of ancient Indian literature, narrating the story of the Kurukshetra War and the fates of the Kaurava and Pandava princes. It encompasses a wide range of themes, including duty, righteousness, and the complexities of human nature, making it not only a significant historical text but also a profound philosophical work that has deeply influenced Hindu thought and culture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Mahabharata is attributed to the sage Vyasa and is considered one of the longest epic poems in the world, with over 100,000 verses.
2. The epic explores various philosophical concepts, including the nature of justice, the importance of family loyalty, and the struggle between good and evil.
3. The story culminates in the great battle of Kurukshetra, where the Pandavas and Kauravas fight for control over the kingdom, leading to profound moral dilemmas for many characters.
4. The Bhagavad Gita, which is part of the Mahabharata, addresses complex issues of duty and righteousness faced by Arjuna on the battlefield.
5. The Mahabharata also contains numerous sub-stories and teachings that contribute to its richness as a spiritual and cultural text within Hinduism.

Review Questions

• How does the Mahabharata illustrate the concept of dharma through its characters and their decisions?
  • The Mahabharata effectively illustrates dharma through various characters facing moral dilemmas that require them to make difficult choices. For example, Arjuna's initial reluctance to fight in the Kurukshetra War stems from his familial bonds with the Kauravas, yet he ultimately realizes that fulfilling his duty as a warrior is essential for upholding righteousness. This internal conflict highlights how dharma can be complex and situational, showing that even noble characters grapple with their responsibilities.
• Discuss the significance of the Bhagavad Gita within the context of the Mahabharata and its impact on Hindu philosophy.
  • The Bhagavad Gita serves as a crucial philosophical discourse within the Mahabharata, encapsulating key teachings on duty (dharma), devotion (bhakti), and knowledge (jnana). As Arjuna seeks guidance from Krishna amidst his moral crisis on the battlefield, Krishna imparts wisdom that transcends the immediate conflict. This dialogue not only provides insights into individual duty and ethics but also shapes broader Hindu thought by emphasizing selfless action and surrender to divine will.
• Evaluate how the themes presented in the Mahabharata resonate with contemporary issues related to ethics and morality in society today.
  • The themes presented in the Mahabharata continue to resonate with contemporary society by addressing enduring questions about ethics, justice, and human nature. The moral complexities faced by characters like Arjuna mirror today's challenges in decision-making where conflicting loyalties and ethical dilemmas arise. By examining issues such as family responsibilities versus societal obligations or individual rights versus collective good, modern readers can draw parallels between these ancient teachings and current debates about morality in various social contexts.

Related terms

Bhagavad Gita:

A 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Mahabharata, consisting of a conversation between prince Arjuna and the god Krishna, who serves as his charioteer.

Dharma: A key concept in Hinduism that refers to the moral and ethical duties that individuals must follow according to their role in society.

Puranas: A genre of ancient Indian literature that encompasses mythological stories, traditions, and history, often serving as a complement to the epics like the Mahabharata.