ARA PARVA Meaning and
Definition
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Ara parva refers to a sacred Hindu scripture, specifically the Mahabharata, an ancient Indian epic. In Sanskrit, "ara" means "half" or "partial," while "parva" translates to "book" or "section." It is considered as one of the important sub-sections of the Mahabharata comprising eighteen books or parvas.
Ara Parva is the third parva of the Mahabharata and carries immense importance in understanding the narrative. It serves as a bridge between two major sections of the epic - the Adi (first) Parva and the Vana (forest) Parva. This section significantly covers significant events leading up to the onset of the Great War of Kurukshetra.
Within Ara Parva, one can find the description of the dice game episode where the Pandavas lose their kingdom and are sent into exile. This section also delves into various philosophical discourses, including discussions on dharma (duty), righteousness, ethics, and morality through conversations between the characters.
Moreover, Ara Parva presents key moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the protagonists, emphasizing their strengths and weaknesses. It highlights the contrast between right and wrong conduct, offering valuable insights into human nature and the consequences of actions.
Overall, Ara Parva plays a significant role in setting the stage for the epic battle of the Mahabharata and provides essential lessons on morality, ethics, and the consequences of one's choices and actions.
Etymology of ARA PARVA
The term "Ara Parva" has roots in Sanskrit, an ancient Indo-Aryan language.
The word "Ara" (अर) in Sanskrit refers to an altar or a sacred place for offering sacrifices. It is derived from the Sanskrit root "ṛ" (ऋ), which means "to offer".
The word "Parva" (पर्व) in Sanskrit means "section" or "chapter". It is derived from the Sanskrit root "pṛ" (पृ), which means "to celebrate" or "to fulfill".
When these two words are combined, "Ara Parva" essentially means "the section or chapter related to the altar or sacrifice".
