Literature
Krishnas Complex Relationship with Karna in the Mahabharata
Why Did Krishna Like Karna in the Mahabharata?
The ancient Indian epic, the Mahabharata, narrates the story of the Pandavas and the Kauravas, with Krishna playing a pivotal role. A common misconception exists that Krishna favored Karna, but a closer examination of the text reveals a more nuanced and critical relationship. This article delves into the true nature of Krishna's views on Karna based on the Mahabharata.
Understanding Krishna's Personality and Philosophy
According to historical narratives and philosophical accounts, Krishna was not a lover or hater in the conventional sense. Osho, in his book Krishna: The Man and His Philosophy, emphasizes that:
‘If you go to him with hate - you will feel hate. If you go to him with love - you will be showered with love.’
This suggests that Krishna's responses were rooted in the attitudes and intentions of those who approached him. Meanwhile, Vivek Dutta Mishra's reflections further elucidate:
‘In God, never reject anyone. We in our ignorance and arrogance reject God. He is always eager and waiting for us to embrace Dharma. God never envies or hates anyone. Neither is he biased. He is too big and compassionate to be driven by lowly human emotions.’
These insights help us understand that Krishna's actions were guided by a deep sense of justice and Dharma, rather than personal bias or affection.
Examination of Krishna’s Views on Karna
The Mahabharata provides several passages that highlight Krishna's disapproval of Karna. To be precise, Krishna often emphasized Karna's association with Adharma, his pride, and his vicious intentions towards Arjuna.
1. Predictions from Kairata Parva
During the exile of the Pandavas, in the Kairata Parva, Krishna makes dire prophecies about Karna's role in the impending conflict:
“The earth will drink the blood of Duryodhana, Karna the evil-souled Shakuni, and Duhshasana, as the fourth. After that, all of us will install Dharmaraja Yudhishthira as the king. Those deceitful ones deserve to be slain.”
This indicates that Krishna saw Karna as a malevolent figure, predicting his role in the destruction of Duryodhana and the Pandavas' victory.
2. Karna Vadha Parva
In the Karna Vadha Parva, Krishna urges Arjuna to kill Karna, describing his many sins and crimes. A particularly critical excerpt is:
“Karna, the extremely evil-souled one, has done many wicked deeds towards you. Arrows decorated with gold, sharpened on stone and capable of taking away life released by you will pacify those words and other wicked deeds. Let your arrows rob him of his life today. Let his limbs be touched by terrible arrows shot from your Gandiva bow. Strike Karna with great force and convey him to Yama's eternal abode.”
This passage clearly illustrates that Krishna did not consider Karna a well-wisher but rather someone whose destruction was necessary for justice to be served.
3. Krishna’s Final Words to Arjuna
Even in the face of potential tragedy, when asked what would happen if Arjuna was killed by Karna, Krishna maintains his stance:
“Using my arms in the battle, I will kill Karna and Shalya. The sun may fall down from its place, the earth may shatter into many fragments, the fire may become cold, but Karna will not be able to kill Dhananjaya. However, if this does happen, the world will be destroyed.”
This statement further reinforces the idea that Krishna valued Dharma and justice over personal ties or preferences.
Did Krishna Offer the Kingdom to Karna?
It is often suggested that Krishna offered Karna the kingdom in exchange for avoiding the war. However, this is more of a strategy than an indication of favor. When Dhritarashtra and Duryodhana rejected Krishna's proposal, they were similarly met with refusal. This act highlights that Krishna was not rewarding Karna but rather extending a chance for Dharma to prevail.
“O lord of the earth! Reflect on the consequences and then act accordingly. O lord of men! You are capable of uniting the Bharatas. O king! Protected by the Pandavas, you will be established in dharma and artha. However much you try, you will not obtain people like them.”
These words from Krishna indicate a broader perspective on the value of unity and righteousness, suggesting that his actions were driven by a belief in these principles, rather than any individual favoritism.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Mahabharata does not portray Krishna as someone who liked Karna, despite the latter's significant role in the epic. Rather, Krishna's actions and statements reveal a profound commitment to Dharma, justice, and the protection of the righteous. This underscores the importance of understanding the broader context and philosophy behind characters and events in ancient texts.