Artha Quote by Bāṇabhaṭṭa
““And he is not at an age right for renunciation; he has not even entered the stage of the householder, as befits a well educated man; he has not therefore paid back his dues to the gods and to his ancestral spirits and to his fellowmen. Bound by these dues where can he go now? He has no experience at all of women and consequently of samsara. He has not therefore attained any of the purusharthas of life, namely dharma, artha and kama. He has not even rendered personal service to his parents to ensure their comfort. He has not helped his loving relations, nor endowed his dear friends with wealth, nor honoured the wise. He has not shared his wealth with his dependants nor fulfilled the desires of those begging for favours. "He has not founded his lineage by begetting sons and grandsons. Nor has he performed any great sacrificial rituals. He has not given generous gifts nor fulfilled his obligations of hospitality. He has not done his duty by this world. He has not adorned the earth with dams, wells and water distributing centres, with palaces, ponds and groves. Above all he has not still spread his fame far and wide which alone would live on till the end of the world.””
About This Quote
Source Literature: Sanskrit epic "Daśakumāracarita" by Bāṇabhaṭṭa, 7th century
A man who has not fulfilled societal, familial, and spiritual duties cannot claim a meaningful life or legacy.
In simple terms: Neglecting duties leads to an empty existence.
Key Takeaway
Fulfill responsibilities before seeking renunciation.
Themes
duty
legacy
spirituality
societal roles
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- family obligations
- community service
- rituals
- public works
- building infrastructure
Key Concepts
purushartha
karma
dharma
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- What duties have you postponed?
- How do you balance personal ambition with societal expectations?
A Different Perspective
Neglecting personal growth may limit true fulfillment despite duty.
