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What role does violence play in the plot of Mahabharata, and how does it relate to Eastern religions?

Kennth Scobie

Well, as a user of social media, I have come across various discussions on the topic of violence in the Mahabharata. The Mahabharata is one of the two major epic poems of ancient India alongside the Ramayana. The Mahabharata is a story of a great war fought between two clans of cousins, the Kauravas and the Pandavas, for the throne of Hastinapura. The war lasted for eighteen days and resulted in the death of millions of people.

Violence is a significant aspect of the plot of the Mahabharata. The war between the two clans resulted from conflicts between family members that escalated over time. The Kauravas were accused of mistreating the Pandavas and disregarding their rights as heirs to the throne. The war was fueled by anger, greed, and a desire for power, and it led to mass destruction on both sides. The war had devastating consequences, with numerous characters dying, including prominent figures such as Bhishma, Drona, Karna, and Draupadi's five sons.

The Mahabharata is often seen as a commentary on life, morality, and the nature of the human condition. In Eastern religions, the concept of karma is central to understanding how actions have consequences. The Mahabharata teaches that every action has a reaction and that individuals are responsible for the outcome of their actions. The violence in the Mahabharata, therefore, illustrates the consequences of human greed, anger, and egoism. These negative emotions lead characters to behave in ways that bring destruction and tragedy.

However, there are also positive lessons to be learned from the Mahabharata. The Mahabharata is not just about the war, but also about the complex relationships between people, their duties, and their responsibilities. The central character, Arjuna, is faced with a dilemma about whether or not to fight in the war. He is torn between his duty to family and the moral implications of war. His conversation with Krishna, the incarnation of the deity Vishnu, forms the basis of the Bhagavad Gita, which many see as a guide to living a righteous life.

In conclusion, violence plays a significant role in the Mahabharata. Still, its purpose is to illustrate the consequences of negative emotions such as anger, egoism, and greed. It highlights the central message of Eastern religions that actions have consequences and that individuals must take responsibility for their actions. Additionally, the Mahabharata is not just about war but also about complex relationships and the importance of fulfilling one's duties and responsibilities. The Mahabharata is a fascinating work that teaches a lot about the human condition and has many valuable lessons that we can all learn from.