Sankhya Yoga

Hindi

श्रीराम ने भी यही कहा जब मंत्री सुमंत्र ने वन के रास्ते से श्रीराम को वापस अयोध्या लौट चलने को कहा था— "संभावित कहुँ अपजस लाहू। मरन कोटि सम दारुन दाहू॥" तुम्ह सन तात बहुत का कहउँ। दिएँ उतरु फिरि पातकु लहऊँ॥ (मानस, अयो. 94:4) अर्थात, प्रतिष्ठित पुरुष के लिए अपयश की प्राप्ति करोड़ों मृत्यु के समान भीषण ताप देने वाली होती है। मैं आपसे अधिक क्या कहूँ! पलट कर जवाब देने में भी पाप का भागी होता हूँ।

English

This verse may seem to differ from later verses in the Sacred Book, where God repeatedly emphasizes the importance of maintaining equanimity in the face of honor and insult, praise or blame. It's important to recognize that Prince Arjuna is still at the early stages of his journey to enlightenment, and at this point, he needs to be convinced through values he is familiar with. However, this note doesn't imply that one should completely disregard facing public disgrace. Whether fully enlightened or not, everyone must strive to avoid actions that bring disgrace or unnecessary blame. The overarching intention of the Lord is that one should always follow the path of righteousness. Even if, due to false accusations or other reasons, one faces public disgrace, they should remain unaffected by it. Maintaining an impeccable reputation is indeed desirable for everyone.