NCERT Class 10 Sanskrit Shemushi: Chapter 5 — शेमुषी- द्वितीयो भाग:
This chapter, 'Subhashitani', from NCERT's Class 10 Sanskrit Shemushi textbook, is a compilation of ten selected verses from various sources. Subhashitas are inspiring, poetic compositions that illuminate universal truths. The chapter emphasizes the importance of hard work over laziness, highlighting diligence as a true friend. It discusses the negative impact of anger, the value of social connections, and the inherent usefulness of all things. The verses also explore the unique qualities of intelligence and the concept of associating with like-minded individuals. This chapter aims to provide moral and ethical guidance, fostering a deeper understanding of life's principles for Class 10 students preparing for CBSE exams.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 10 |
| Subject | Sanskrit |
| Book | Shemushi |
| Chapter | Chapter 5 — शेमुषी- द्वितीयो भाग: |
| Language | Sanskrit |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 1 minute |
| Word count | 143 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the importance of diligence and the ill effects of laziness.
- Recognize anger as a destructive force.
- Appreciate the value of associating with like-minded people.
- Understand the inherent worth and utility of all things and beings.
- Develop moral and ethical values through insightful verses.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| अवसीदति | दु:खम अनुभवति (दु:खी होता है) & Feeling hurt |
| वेत्ति | जानाति (जानता है) & Knows |
| वायस: | काक: (कौआ) & Crow |
| करी | गज: (हाथी) & Elephant |
| निमित्तम् | कारणम् (कारण) & Purpose |
| उद्यमसम: | परिश्रम के समान & Equal to effort |
| निर्गुण: | गुणों से रहित & Devoid of qualities |
| नििल: | बलहीन & Powerless |
| प्रवुफप्यति | क्रुद्ध्यति & Gets angry |
| प्रसीदति | प्रसन्न होता है & Becomes pleased |
| पण्डितो जन: | बुद्धिमान व्यक्ति & Wise person |
| सुधिाय: | बुद्धिमान लोग & Intelligent people |
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Practice questions
- मनुष्याणां शरीरस्थ: महान् रिपु: क:? Answer: आलस्यम्।
- किं कृत्वा मनुष्य: न अवसीदति? Answer: उद्यमं कृत्वा।
- वसंतस्य गुणं क: न वेत्ति? Answer: वायस: (कौआ)।
- अकारणद्वेषी मन: कथं परितोषयितुं शक्यते? Answer: अकारणद्वेषी मन: परितोषयितुं न शक्यते।
- समान-शील-व्यसनेषु किं भवति? Answer: सख्यम्।
- संपत्तौ च विपत्तौ च महताम् एकरूपता केन उउदाहरणेन स्पष्टा क्रियते? Answer: उदये रक्तिम: सविता, अस्तमये च रक्तिम:।
Frequently asked questions
What is the main theme of the 'Subhashitani' chapter?
The chapter 'Subhashitani' emphasizes moral values like the importance of hard work, the destructive nature of anger, the benefits of associating with like-minded people, and the inherent worth of all beings.
According to the chapter, what is the greatest enemy of humans?
According to the chapter, laziness (आलस्यं) is the greatest enemy residing in the human body.
Which verse highlights the importance of associating with similar people?
Verse 6 states that animals associate with their own kind (deer with deer, cows with cows), and similarly, fools associate with fools, and the wise with the wise, indicating friendship is based on similar nature and habits.
How does the chapter describe the nature of anger?
The chapter describes anger (क्रोध:) as the primary enemy of humans, residing within the body and capable of destroying it, much like fire residing in wood destroys the wood.
What does the chapter say about the usefulness of things and people?
The chapter asserts that in this diverse world, nothing is useless. Every being or object has its specific utility, like a horse being swift in running and a donkey strong in carrying loads.
What is the meaning of 'Subhashitani'?
'Subhashitani' refers to well-said, inspiring, and instructive verses or sayings that convey profound truths in a concise and poetic manner.
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NCERT Class 10 Sanskrit — Shemushi — Chapter 5 — शेमुषी- द्वितीयो भाग:. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.