अश्वं नैव गजं नैव व्याघ्रं नैव च नैव च ।
अजापुत्रं बलिं दधातु देवो दुर्बल घातकः ॥
Word meaning:
अश्वं = horse
नैव = न-not, एव- surely, at all
गजं = elephant
नैव = न-not, एव- surely, at all
व्याघ्रं = tiger
नैव = न-not, एव- surely, at all
च = and
नैव = न-not, एव- surely, at all
च = and
अजापुत्रं = अजा-goat, पुत्रं- baby
बलिं = An oblation, a gift or offering
दधातु = to give
देवो = God
दुर्बल = weak
घातकः = killer
Shloka meaning:
Not the horse, not the elephant, not the tiger, but only the lamb is sacrificed in a ritual. Even God doesn't protect the weak.
Kannada Meaning:
ಕುದುರೆಯಲ್ಲ, ಆನೆಯಲ್ಲ, ಹುಲಿಯಲ್ಲ, ಕುರಿಮರಿಯನ್ನು ಮಾತ್ರ ಆಚರಣೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಬಲಿ ಕೊಡುತ್ತಾರೆ. ದೇವರು ಕೂಡ ದುರ್ಬಲರನ್ನು ರಕ್ಷಿಸುವುದಿಲ್ಲ.
Hindi Meaning:
किसी अनुष्ठान में घोड़े की नहीं, हाथी की नहीं, बाघ की नहीं, केवल मेमने की बलि दी जाती है। यहां तक कि भगवान भी कमजोरों की रक्षा नहीं करते.
Discussion & Conclusion
In the intricate tapestry of rituals and traditions, the symbolism behind the selection of the lamb for sacrifice holds profound significance. While the majestic horse, the mighty elephant, and the fierce tiger are creatures that exude power and dominance, it is the gentle and meek lamb that is singled out. This deliberate choice is a poignant reminder that vulnerability does not exempt one from the trials and tribulations of life.
The act of sacrificing the lamb underscores the universal truth that challenges and hardships are indiscriminate, affecting all beings regardless of their strength or stature. It serves as a stark reminder that adversity can come knocking at anyone's door, regardless of external appearances or perceived abilities. In a world where uncertainties loom large and obstacles can appear insurmountable, the lesson derived from this ritual is clear - fortitude and resilience are essential qualities to navigate the unpredictable journey of life.
By emphasizing the importance of cultivating inner strength, the ritual imparts a timeless wisdom on the necessity of fortifying one's spirit in the face of adversity. Just as the lamb, though vulnerable, is chosen for sacrifice, individuals are called upon to bolster their inner reserves of courage, perseverance, and determination. It is through this inner strength that one can weather the storms of life, stand firm in the face of challenges, and emerge stronger and more resilient.
Ultimately, the ritual serves as a profound metaphor for the human experience - a poignant reminder that vulnerability does not equate to weakness, and that true strength lies in the ability to endure, adapt, and overcome. It underscores the importance of cultivating a resilient spirit, one that can withstand the trials and tribulations that inevitably come our way, and emerge victorious in the face of adversity.
In the journey of life, we encounter storms that test the very fabric of our being. These tempests, whether they manifest as personal struggles, unforeseen obstacles, or collective hardships, have the power to shake us to our core. Yet, amidst the chaos and turbulence, there lies an invitation—to cultivate resilience and compassion as guiding beacons through the darkest of nights.
Resilience, the ability to bounce back from adversity, is not merely a trait but a skill that can be nurtured and honed. It is the inner fortitude that empowers us to endure the harshest of circumstances without losing sight of our inherent worth and potential. Like a sturdy ship navigating treacherous waters, resilience allows us to weather the storms with grace and perseverance.
But resilience alone is not enough. In the pursuit of strength, we must not forget the essence of compassion—the gentle force that binds us together as human beings. Compassion is the empathetic response that arises from our shared humanity, reminding us of the interconnectedness of all life. It is the willingness to extend a hand to those who stumble along the way, offering them solace and support in their moments of need.
As we strive to cultivate resilience, let us also cultivate compassion—a harmonious balance of strength and empathy that guides us through life's intricate tapestry. Let us draw upon the depths of our inner strength to stand unwavering in the face of adversity, while simultaneously opening our hearts to the suffering of others. For it is in embracing both resilience and compassion that we discover the true essence of our humanity—the capacity to endure, to uplift, and to inspire.
In the quiet moments of reflection, let us remember that each trial we overcome, each hand we extend in kindness, contributes to the collective tapestry of resilience and compassion that binds us together as a global community. And in this shared journey, may we find solace, strength, and hope, knowing that together, we can weather any storm that comes our way.
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