Morality!

A messenger of Drupada arrived & announced to Pāndavās-A grand feast is prepared for bridegroom’s party on Draupadi’s wedding. The king has extended his invitation to you & have sent chariots to carry you to palace. As Pāndavās prepared to depart putting Kunti & Draupadi on one chariot & themselves on another, Drupada received Yudhisthira’s cryptic reply from the priest. To be prepared for any eventuality, he kept paraphernalia ready for marriage of persons from each of 4 varnās. In addition to ascertain real identity of his son-in-law, Drupada kept many interesting articles on display to see what draws bridegroom’s attention

There were sacrificial implements & objects of deity worship for Brahmanās, weapons and armor to attract Kshatriyās & cows, seeds and agricultural items for vaishyās. After arriving at Drupada’s palace, Kunti & Draupadi entered women’s apartment while Pāndavās sat on throne provided for them. A sumptuous feast was served & after in relaxed mood, Pāndavās began to inspect various articles on display. The king observed how his guests quickly passed over all items & scrutinized display of weapons. Appreciating their bodily strength, he then quickly concluded that they were Kshatriyās disguised as Brahmins

Drupada approached Pāndavās & implored-Please disclose whether you’re Ksatriyās or Brahmins or perhaps residents of heaven, who have come here for the sake of my daughter. Speak truth as for Kings, truth is considered more important than performance of sacrifices. As per your reply, I shall arrange marriage ceremony without delay

Yudhisthira confided-Dear King! Don’t grieve, be happy as your cherished wish has been fulfilled. We’re indeed Kshatriyās, sons of Pāndu & you’re our revered superior. Hearing this Drupada was so ecstatic that he became speechless for some time. He then enquired Yudhi about their escape from fire at Vārnavata. Listening to Yudhisthira about what happened, Drupada condemned Dhritrāshtra & promised that he would help them regain their rightful kingdom

Drupada urged Arjun to marry his daughter. Yudhisthira said-because my younger brother is going to be married, then by social custom I shall also wed. Not understanding Yudhi’s intention, Drupada said-If you like you can marry Draupadi instead of Arjun, or you can select any of your brothers to wed. Yudhi said-Draupadi shall become wife of all 5 brothers, for it is the order of our mother that we share whatever we obtain

Drupada was shocked to hear this & argued that Vedic culture doesn’t allow a woman to accept more than one husband. Yudhi replied-The ways of morality are very subtle. I believe the best path is to follow direction of one’s superiors. I’ve never uttered a lie & my heart never turns towards that which is sinful. Since my mother has sanctioned this marriage & I also feel it is virtuous, pl give up your doubts

Arjun was also under dilemma to fight against his relatives at Kurukshetra war & kept his bow down in the middle of the battlefield. Dharma & its application are very subtle. Following our spiritual master guidelines submissively is our safest bet

Krsna says

tad viddhi pranipatena pariprasnena sevaya
upadeksyanti te jnanam jnaninas tattva-darsinah 

Just try to learn the truth by approaching a spiritual master. Inquire from him submissively and render service unto him. The self-realized soul can impart knowledge unto you because he has seen the truth. Don’t speculate

Thoughts? #gameoflife


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