21. What is True Valour ?

Everyone is familiar with the great epics like the Mahabharata and Bhagavata. Lord Sri Krishna, in His divine prowess, could have slain Sisupala in an instant. Yet, He chose restraint, despite enduring Sisupala’s relentless insults. His reasoning was profound: “Let me give him another chance. Perhaps he will realize his mistake. Only if he proves to be utterly incorrigible should I strike him down.”

Similarly, Yudhishtira and his brothers were mighty warriors. He himself was strong and capable, yet he made every effort to prevent war with his cousins. He even sent Lord Krishna as an envoy of peace–a testament to his magnanimity. However, when Duryodhana arrogantly dismissed the proposal, insisting that Yudhishtira should fight for the kingdom if he desired it, Yudhishtira still counseled him to avoid bloodshed and uphold the honour of their dynasty.

Even when Bhima and the other Pandavas, eager to vanquish Duryodhana, awaited his command, Yudhishtira pacified them. Since childhood, he had firmly believed that every action must be undertaken only after careful consideration of its consequences. Why should we avoid impulsive actions? It is because they may lead to unforeseen difficulties. Only through thoughtful deliberation can we achieve the desired outcome. This is the moral Yudhishtira exemplified.

Thus, we see that true valor is adorned by patience, forgiveness, and wisdom. Let us never forget this timeless lesson. ❀❀❀❀