Mahapatakas are five great sins (pāpa) that are mentioned inHindu texts.
As perHindu texts, every action (kriya) of a living being (karta) leads to a reaction and an associated result, which forms the concept ofkarma. Every transgression, or demerit, signifying deeds or intentions that transgress moral and spiritual laws, results in negative karma calledpāpa, while good deeds earnpunya. As perBhagavad Gita, aatman (soul) spends time in thesvarga (heaven) for the good deeds and is cast back into earth to take a life form (jiva). As long as sins are committed, the cycle of rebirth (samsara) continues.[1]
Manusmriti mentions the five greatest sins (mahapatakas):[2][3][4]
There are other activities (anupatakas) which are mentioned as equivalent to committing these five great sins.[5][6][7] Murdering a menstruating or pregnant woman, killing of akshatriya or one who has given a sacrifice, causing harm to one who has sought refuge and endangering a child or causing anabortion are considered equivalent toBrahmahatya. Betraying a friend is considered equivalent to consuming intoxicating substances (surapana). Embezzling land and property of Brahmins, and stealing certain items such as horses, jewellery are considered equivalent tosteya. Indulging in a incestuous relationship with an elder or friend's spouse is considered equivalent toguruvanganagama.[5][7]
The Hindu texts mention various punishments for various sins, apart from suffering innaraka (hell) in the afterlife and subsequent rebirth. However, there were differences in terms of the quantum and application of punishments based on thevarnas (social classes).[7][8] One has to either feel remorse (paścātāpa) or atone for the sins committed (prāyaścitta).[8] Texts also give various means by which one can atone for the sins committed. These include public confession (abhishasta), prayer to god and chantingmantras, visiting pilgrimage sites and taking holy dip in sacred rivers, performing rituals, austere living and virtuous conduct, attaining knowledge (gnana), self control andmeditation, obtaining blessings of saints,gurus or elders, and givingcharity (dhana).[2][8]
