According to Chanakya, What is Man's Greatest Illness and Greatest Happiness?
Known as Kautilya and Vishnugupta, Chanakya's intellectual prowess was acknowledged even by his enemies. He was not only knowledgeable in various subjects, but also a capable teacher, guide, and strategist. His personality was extraordinary, and his pronouncements, rooted in experience and the public good, remain remarkably relevant today.
Let's explore in this article what Chanakya, in his Chanakya Niti, considered the greatest happiness, austerity, illness, and virtue.
Greatest Happiness: Contentment
Chanakya considered contentment the greatest happiness. He believed that a person possessing contentment was the happiest in the world. Human desires are the greatest enemies of an individual. A contented person does not envy the happiness of others and remains cheerful.
Greatest Austerity: Peace
Chanakya considered peace the greatest austerity. He believed that some people possess all the comforts and luxuries of the world, yet lack peace. Peace comes only when a person gains control over their mind. A person who achieves peace experiences a successful life.
Greatest Enemy: Greed
A person's greatest enemy is their greed. A greedy person, no matter how much they acquire, never finds satisfaction. They covet others' possessions and strive to acquire them. Such a person lacks both contentment and peace. Conquering greed is akin to winning half the battle.
Greatest Virtue: Compassion
Showing compassion towards others is the greatest virtue. Chanakya believed that without compassion, a human is no different from an animal. God has endowed humans with the capacity to help others. Therefore, compassion is considered the greatest virtue.
