Lessons and Morals in Indian Literature

There are many stories, legends, and religious texts in Indian literature that attempt to teach its reader lessons and morals. In many of these literary works, there is a teacher, known as a guru, who tries to offer guidance in spiritual and philosophical matters. “The Yoga of Knowledge,” an excerpt from the Bhagavad-Gita, tells the story of Arjuna, a mighty worrier, and Krishna, his charioteer and brother-in-law. Arjuna, reluctant to fight against his own blood, is t…

…una must carry out. Arjuna realizes that the calm of surrender “… can free yourself from the bondage of virtue and vice during this very life” (179). Arjuna is also taught how to become one with the Atman and how to fight without thinking of the consequences of his actions. Krishna acts as a guru towards Arjuna and reminds him of many Hindu beliefs that aid Arjuna in fulfilling his dharma.