![]() She must assist her husband in pursuing the three great aims of life: religious merit, assets and enjoyment. Neglecting enjoyment is as immoral as to be careless about religion and wealth. Such a perfect wife is termed as 'Padmini', which means 'lotus-like'. Other kinds of names are 'Chitrini' or a woman of varied activities; 'Sankhini' or a conch-like woman and the 'Hastini' means a woman resembling the elephant. Definition of a wife has been well stated in Mahabharata, which is accurately translated as follows: 'A wife is half the man, his truest friend, A loving wife is a perpetual spring Of virtue, pleasure, wealth; a faithful wife Is his best aid in seeking heavenly bliss; A sweetly speaking wife is a companion In solitude, a father in advice, A mother in all seasons of distress, A rest in passing through life's wilderness.' ![]() In Mahabharata Anusasana Parva 126, there is a discussion between Sandili and Samna in the talk that was exchanged between Bhishma and Yudhishthira. Sandili was asked how she had attained the blissful abode. Sandili replied to Bhishma thus: 'I reposed confidence in my husband. I did whatever my husband did. I never talked harshly to my husband at any time or on any occasion. I avoided for myself such foods and drinks that are disliked by my husband. I never adorned myself whenever he was away from the village. I served with care and attention, when he returned from his sojourn. I never talked standing on the threshold of my house. I used to get up from my bed early and do my duties. I worshipped the gods, Brahmins and parents in law. I discharged my family responsibilities. I performed my marital duties.' The Hindu society, as a custom strictly teaches the wives obedience, performance of duty and spirit of adjustment. Women in Hindu households learn the above mannerisms at parental homes. (Last Updated on : 01-05-2014) |
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