Shloka 10
The Killing of Cāṇūra, Muṣṭika, and Kaṁsa; Liberation and Restoration of Dharma in Mathurā
न सभां प्रविशेत् प्राज्ञ: सभ्यदोषाननुस्मरन् । अब्रुवन् विब्रुवन्नज्ञो नर: किल्बिषमश्नुते ॥ १० ॥
na sabhāṁ praviśet prājñaḥ sabhya-doṣān anusmaran abruvan vibruvann ajño naraḥ kilbiṣam aśnute
A wise person should not enter an assembly when he knows its members are acting improperly. And if he enters and then does not speak the truth, speaks falsely, or feigns ignorance, he surely incurs sin.
FAQs
This verse teaches that entering an assembly requires discernment; an ignorant person risks sin either by remaining silent when speech is required or by speaking wrongly.
In the tense public setting surrounding Kaṁsa’s arena, Śukadeva highlights dharmic caution: social and political assemblies can be morally compromised, so one must act with wisdom and responsibility.
Before speaking, assess the setting and your competence; avoid impulsive or harmful speech, but also don’t stay silent when truth and duty require a clear, respectful response.