Many people are in a habit of instant replying. However, some messages, particularly those asking complex questions, require time to gather thoughts or check our schedule before a thoughtful response can be given. But is it good to reply everyone? We often comes across a situation, where silent remain a powerful tool of conversation. And in some cases, it is good to just nod. Sanskrit have explained that tere are certain category of people, where a debate is not necessary. Simply accepting their words is a waybto show repect and agreeing to their point. It says ;
अर्थपतौ भूमिपतौ बाले वृद्धे तपोSधिके विदुषी |
योषिति मूर्खे गुरुषु च विदुषां नैवोत्तर देयं||
Arthapatau bhoomipatau baale vruddhe tapodhike vidushi. Yoshiti moorkho gurushu cha vidushaam naivottara deyam.
Arthapatau = rich persons.
Bhoomipatau = landlords
Baale = children.
Vruddhe = aged people.
Tapodhike = tapo +adhike.
Tapo = religious austerity.
Adhike = too much.
Tapodhika = deeply involved in religious austerity.
Vidushi = a learned woman.
Yoshiti = young women.
Moorkhe = fools.
Gurushu = teachers.
Cha = and.
Vidushaam = learned persons.
Naivottara = naiva + uttar.
Naiva = never
Uttar = reply, countering a statement with argument.
Devam = given.
i.e. One should never reply by rejecting the words said by rich people, landowners, children, old people, saints engaged in penance, learned women, young women, fools, gurus and learned persons.
Practicality demands that one should not get involved in debate with the people mentioned in this proverb because all of them consider themselves to be right and do not like to listen to a reply. These people have the tendency of disliking any reply given for countering their statements. So,it is preferable not to involve in an argument with them and keep mum as far as possible. This will help in creating a good relationship and atmosphere to sustain the relation for a longer time.