New← Panchatantra
Loss of Gains
Cunning Creatures, Costly Consequences
by Vishnu SharmaFablesPhilosophyFolklore
पञ्चतन्त्र
Originally in Sanskrit300 BC
13 chapters37 pages41 min read
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About This Book
Step into a world where animals outwit, deceive, and learn hard lessons about trust and betrayal. Each tale in 'Loss of Gains' unravels the clever schemes and unexpected twists that come from misplaced confidence and tempting temptations. Discover how wisdom—or folly—shapes fate in these timeless fables.
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Vishnu Sharma
c. 300 BCE
Vishnu Sharma, believed to have lived around 300 BCE, is traditionally credited as the author of the celebrated Sanskrit work, The Panchatantra. While concrete details about his life remain elusive, legend holds that Sharma was a learned scholar and teacher in ancient India. He is said to have been entrusted by a king to educate his unruly sons in the principles of wise governance and practical life skills, a task he accomplished through the innovative use of engaging animal stories. The Panchatantra thus stands as both a pedagogical tool and a literary achievement, reflecting the intellectual milieu of ancient India.
Places and Terms in this Book
Brahman— A member of the priestly caste in Hindu society; here, refers both to an individual who has committed a grave sin and, in plural, to the priestly class known for self-denial.
Book IV— The fourth book or section of the Panchatantra, titled 'Loss of Gains.'
rose-apple tree— A tropical fruit tree native to South and Southeast Asia, known for its fragrant fruit; it is the specific tree where the monkey resides.
Your Majesty— A formal address used for a king or queen, indicating respect and royal status.
barley— A type of grain that the disguised donkey eats in the fields.
death-god— A reference to Yama, the Hindu god of death, symbolizing fate or destiny.
Vocabulary
blandishments— Flattering or coaxing speech or actions intended to persuade someone gently.
fodder— Food, especially dried hay or straw, for cattle and other livestock.
guile— Cunning, deceit, or sly intelligence.
henpecked— A term describing a man dominated by his wife.
kinsmen— Relatives or family members.
nectar— In Indian and classical literature, refers to a sweet, divine drink or substance, often symbolizing immortality.
