"'"Dhritarashtra said, 'Those means were indicated by the high-souled Prahlada while discoursing unto Indra. Listen, however, O ruler of men, as how in brief Behaviour may be acquired. Abstention from injury, by act, thought, and word, in respect of all creatures, compassion, and gift, constitute behaviour that is worthy of praise. That act or exertion by which others are not benefited, or that act in consequence of which one has to feel shame, should never be done. That act, on the other hand, should be done in consequence of which one may win praise in society. O best of the Kurus, I have now told thee in brief as to what Behaviour is. If O king, persons of wicked behaviour do ever win prosperity, they do not enjoy it long, O son, and are seen to be exterminated by the root.'Mbh 12.124.13 · Mahabharata · SANTI PARVA
Mbh 12.124.13
Mahabharata · translated by Kisari Mohan Ganguli
Themes in this passage
KarmaLeadershipWorshipCharityChildrenCompassionNatureSin
Karma in other traditions
The same theme, as Christianity, Islam, Buddhism and Taoism address it.
They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.Psalms 126:5 · Bible · Psalms
The good deed and the evil deed are not alike. Repel the evil deed with one which is better, then lo! he, between whom and thee there was enmity (will become) as though he was a bosom friend.Quran 41:34 · Quran
He whose evil deeds are covered by good deeds, brightens up this world, like the moon when freed from clouds.Dhp 13.173 · Dhammapada · The World
The movement of the Tao By contraries proceeds; And weakness marks the course Of Tao's mighty deeds.Tao Te Ching 40.1 · Tao Te Ching
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