Yudhishthira: The Embodiment of Dharma – Part 1

Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas in the Indian epic Mahabharata, is often celebrated as the epitome of dharma (righteousness). Born to Kunti through the boon granted by Sage Durvasa, Yudhishthira was the son of Yama, the god of death and dharma, which inherently placed upon him the burden of living a life governed by righteousness. He embodies the qualities of a righteous king – wisdom, truthfulness, compassion, and courage. Yudhishthira is skilled in diplomacy and statecraft, earning the respect of his peers. He is reluctant to engage in violence, even against his enemies. His life and actions provide profound insights into the ideals of ancient Indian society and the intricate balance between personal virtue and practical governance. His life exemplifies the struggles and challenges faced in upholding moral and ethical principles.

Yudhishthira is also known as Dharmaputra (Dharmaputra means the son of “Dharma”) and Ajatashatru (One without Enemies). According to Draupadi, Yudhishthira possessed a “complexion like that of pure gold, had a correct sense of morality and was merciful to surrendering foes. Because of his piety, Yudhishthira’s feet and his chariot do not touch the ground, to symbolize his purity.

Early Life and Education

Yudhishthira grew up in the royal court of Hastinapura, with his great-grandfather Bhishma, his uncle Vidura, and his mentor Dronacharya as his teachers. His education encompassed not only martial skills but also the principles of governance, ethics, and dharma. From a young age, Yudhishthira showed a deep understanding and respect for dharma, earning the admiration and love of the citizens of Hastinapura.

Role in the Kingdom

As the eldest Pandava, Yudhishthira was the rightful heir to the throne of Hastinapura. His commitment to dharma often put him at odds with his cousins, the Kauravas, particularly Duryodhana, who harboured deep jealousy and hatred toward the Pandavas. Despite numerous provocations and injustices, Yudhishthira consistently sought peace and reconciliation, demonstrating his unwavering adherence to righteous conduct.

The Dice Game and Exile

One of the most significant events in Yudhishthira’s life was the game of dice, orchestrated by Duryodhana and his uncle Shakuni. Despite knowing the potential consequences, Yudhishthira’s adherence to the rules of hospitality and dharma compelled him to accept the challenge. Against his better judgment, Yudhishthira gambled away his kingdom, his brothers, and even Draupadi, his wife. This event led to the infamous disrobing of Draupadi in the Kuru court, an act of humiliation that Yudhishthira deeply regretted but accepted as the outcome of his actions. As a consequence, the Pandavas were exiled for thirteen years, including one year in incognito. The humiliation of Draupadi in the Kaurava court marked a significant turning point, showcasing the tension between moral righteousness and the often-ruthless nature of politics. Despite his helplessness at the moment, Yudhishthira’s subsequent actions aimed at restoring dharma underscored his belief in eventual justice and moral rectitude. During their exile, Yudhishthira faced numerous trials that tested his resolve and commitment to dharma. He received guidance from sages like Vyasa, Lomasa and Markandeya, who reinforced the importance of adhering to righteousness even in the face of adversity. Yudhishthira’s patience, resilience, and unwavering faith in the principles of righteousness shone during this period, earning him the respect and support of his brothers and followers. One of the most notable episodes during the exile is the Yaksha Prashna, where Yudhishthira’s wisdom is put to the test by a divine being in the form of a Yaksha. His responses to the philosophical questions posed by the Yaksha demonstrated his deep understanding of dharma, morality, and human nature. This episode solidified his status as a paragon of wisdom and virtue.

The Kurukshetra War

Despite his aversion to war, Yudhishthira was eventually forced to lead his brothers in the battle of Kurukshetra to reclaim their rightful kingdom. The war was a colossal struggle between the forces of dharma and adharma (unrighteousness), with Yudhishthira embodying the former. Throughout the battle, he remained true to his principles, seeking to minimize unnecessary bloodshed and uphold the rules of warfare. A notable instance of Yudhishthira’s integrity during the war was his reluctance to utter a falsehood even under strategic necessity. When asked to deceive Dronacharya about the death of his son Ashwatthama, Yudhishthira’s adherence to truth was so strong that he modified his statement, saying “Ashwatthama is dead” (referring to an elephant named Ashwatthama), thereby maintaining his commitment to honesty.

Rule and Governance

After the victory in the Kurukshetra war, Yudhishthira ascended the throne of Hastinapura. Prosperity, justice, and adherence to dharma marked his reign. His efforts to rehabilitate the war-torn society, his compassionate treatment of his subjects, and his commitment to the welfare of all marked Yudhishthira’s governance. His administration emphasized fairness, transparency, and the ethical treatment of both allies and former foes. His wisdom and fairness in governance earned him the title of “Dharmaraja. One of Yudhishthira’s significant contributions as a ruler was the Ashvamedha Yagna, a horse sacrifice ritual symbolizing the sovereignty of his rule. This event not only reinforced his position as an undisputed ruler, but also showed his commitment to maintaining dharma through rightful means.

The Final Journey.

In his later years, Yudhishthira, along with his brothers and Draupadi, renounced the throne and embarked on a journey to the Himalayas, seeking moksha (liberation). The journey to the Himalayas and the subsequent ascension to heaven, where Yudhishthira’s ultimate test involved a confrontation with the true nature of dharma and the complexities of divine justice, marked the culmination of his spiritual quest. His steadfastness in adhering to moral principles, even in the face of divine trials, underscored his ultimate realization of dharma. One by one, his companions fell, but Yudhishthira, accompanied by a dog (an incarnation of dharma), continued his ascent. His steadfastness and adherence to dharma throughout his life earned him a place in the heavens.

Legacy

Yudhishthira’s legacy is a testament to the complexities of upholding dharma in a world fraught with challenges and moral dilemmas. His life teaches the importance of integrity, patience, and the unwavering pursuit of righteousness. While his actions were not without flaws, his commitment to dharma, even at great personal cost, has made him a revered figure in Indian philosophy and literature. Yudhishthira’s story, as narrated in the Mahabharata, continues to inspire and instruct generations on the principles of ethical leadership and the pursuit of justice. His life embodies the eternal struggle between good and evil, and the perpetual quest for moral and spiritual fulfilment.

Conclusion

Yudhishthira’s life, as depicted in the Mahabharata, is a testament to the ideals of righteousness, truth, and justice. His journey from a prince to a king, and ultimately to a seeker of spiritual liberation, reflects the profound philosophical and ethical teachings of ancient Indian culture. Through his unwavering commitment to dharma, Yudhishthira remains an enduring symbol of moral integrity and virtuous leadership.