Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 6.11.4
Manvantara· The Manus and right dutyTrue Heroism Has Ethical Limits
“O demigods, these demoniac soldiers have taken birth uselessly. Indeed, they have come from the bodies of their mothers exactly like stool. What is the benefit of killing such enemies from behind while they are running in fear? One who considers himself a hero should not kill an enemy who is afraid of losing his life. Such killing is never glorious, nor can it promote one to the heavenly planets.”
What the purport teaches
- Vṛtrāsura rebuked both sides: the demons for fleeing in fear and the demigods for killing them from behind.
- A hero fights face to face, determined to gain victory or lay down his life. Killing an enemy who is fleeing in fear is inglorious.
- The purport uses strong comparisons to stress the value of being heroic, learned, religious, and devoted to the Lord.
Try this today
In one disagreement today, speak directly and fairly rather than taking advantage of another person's fear.
Ask yourself
Do I seek recognition while overlooking fairness and devotion to the Lord?
Carry the question through the day, then answer it in your own words before sleep.
The study points, practice and question are short summaries drawn from Śrīla Prabhupāda's translation and purport. Read the full purport to go deeper.