Section LII - Story of Death: How the Divine Being Overcame Fear
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section LII 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:
The story narrated by Narada to King Akampana revolves around a helpless lady who is given the task of causing death to all living creatures by Brahma. The lady expresses her reluctance and fear of committing such a cruel act, seeking the protection and guidance of Brahma. Despite her reservations, Brahma insists on her carrying out this duty and reassures her that she will not incur sin by doing so. The lady, now known as Death, undertakes severe ascetic penances to cleanse herself of sin and fear before finally agreeing to fulfill her role as the agent of death.
Death undergoes rigorous austerities for billions of years, traveling to various sacred sites and practicing self-discipline to purify herself. She stands on one leg, restricts her senses, and lives only on air and water to atone for her impending task. Despite her initial reluctance, Death remains steadfast in her devotion to righteousness and determination to complete her duty. Brahma eventually assures her that by fulfilling her role, she will not incur sin and promises divine support in her task of taking the lives of living creatures.
Brahma instructs Death to cast off desire and wrath, explaining that it is the wind and diseases that ultimately cause the death of creatures. He assures her that death is ordained by the Supreme God and is an inevitable part of life. Death is reminded that her son has attained eternal happiness in heaven and that grieving for the dead is futile. Understanding the inevitability of death and its role in the cycle of life, Death is encouraged to fulfill her duty without sorrow or attachment.
King Akampana expresses his gratitude and enlightenment upon hearing Narada's story, finding solace in the teachings and shedding his grief. He acknowledges the cleansing and enlightening effects of the story and gives thanks to Narada. The narration of this story is said to bring fame, heavenly rewards, and an extended period of life. Vyasa concludes by urging Yudhishthira to draw strength from the lessons learned in the story and to prepare himself for battle with fortitude and determination. Abhimanyu, having fallen in battle, is celebrated as a hero who has ascended to heaven after his sacrifice in the war.
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 LII - Story of Death: How the Divine Being Overcame Fear, have a look at the following articles:
Section LII, online text
English translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli.
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Mahabharata (English Summary)
by Kisari Mohan Ganguli | ISBN-10: 8121505933
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FAQ of Mahabharata, Section LII:
Will Death always be associated with sin according to this story?
Death will not incur sin if she follows Brahma's command to take lives.
What did Death fear that prompted her to undergo ascetic austerities?
Death feared committing sins by taking the lives of living creatures.
How did Death ensure she would not incur sin while carrying out her duty?
By following Brahma's command to cast off desire and wrath.
What lesson can be learned from Death's story in this narrative?
Understanding death as ordained by the Supreme God can help overcome grief.
Daily life: Story of Death: How the Divine Being Overcame Fear:
The story narrated above explores profound themes like duty, the inevitability of death, and the pursuit of righteousness despite the inherent fears and dilemmas that life presents. Implementing the essence of this story into daily life starts with the acceptance that every living being is subject to the natural cycle of life and death, and this should not be a source of perpetual grief or fear. Instead, it encourages embracing our roles and responsibilities with courage and integrity, just as the damsel called Death ultimately accepts her duty, albeit with a heart seeking to minimize suffering and promote righteousness.
In our daily lives, this might translate to facing our obligations and challenges head-on, with a clear understanding that avoiding them is neither possible nor advisable. It teaches us to act with compassion and empathy, recognizing the impact of our actions on others, and striving to act in ways that are constructive and beneficial to the greater good. The story also highlights the importance of seeking wisdom and guidance in moments of doubt and uncertainty, leading us to make informed decisions that align with our values and the betterment of our community.
The takeaway from this narrative is not just about confronting death or duty, but about the broader concept of contributing positively to the world through our actions, despite the hardships and moral dilemmas we might face. It suggests that living a life guided by righteousness, devoid of malicious intentions, and filled with efforts to understand our purpose and duties, can lead us to a state of peace and fulfillment, akin to the eternal virtue the story promises to its characters. As we navigate the complexities of life, remembering that our actions ripple through the fabric of society can help us choose paths that are righteous, compassionate, and ultimately fulfilling.