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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Mahabharata of Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa, Part 2
+by Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa
+
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+Title: The Mahabharata of Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa, Part 2
+
+Author: Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa
+
+Release Date: April, 2005  [EBook #7965]
+[This file was first posted on June 6, 2003]
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+Edition: 10
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+Language: English
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+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK, THE MAHABHARATA OF KRISHNA-DWAIPAYANA VYASA, PART 2 ***
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+Editorial comment: Part 1 of THE MAHABHARATA OF KRISHNA-DWAIPAYANA VYASA
+can be found in the Project Gutenberg EBook#7864 [?mkdwxxx.xxx].
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+
+
+
+The Mahabharata of
+
+Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa
+
+BOOK 2
+
+SABHA PARVA
+
+Translated into English Prose from the Original Sanskrit Text
+
+by
+
+Kisari Mohan Ganguli
+
+[1883-1896]
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+SECTION I
+
+(Sabhakriya Parva)
+
+Om! After having bowed down to Narayana, and Nara, the most exalted male
+being, and also to the goddess Saraswati, must the word Jaya be uttered.
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Then, in the presence of Vasudeva, Maya Danava,
+having worshipped Arjuna, repeatedly spoke unto him with joined hands and
+in amiable words,--'O son of Kunti, saved have I been by thee from this
+Krishna in spate and from Pavaka (fire) desirous of consuming me. Tell me
+what I have to do for thee.'
+
+"Arjuna said,--'O great Asura, everything hath already been done by thee
+(even by this offer of thine). Blest be thou. Go whithersoever thou likest.
+Be kind and well-disposed towards me, as we are even kind to and well-
+pleased with thee!'
+
+"Maya said,--'O bull amongst men, what thou hast said is worthy of thee, O
+exalted one. But O Bharata, I desire to do something for thee cheerfully.
+I am a great artist, a Viswakarma among the Danavas. O son of Pandu, being
+what I am, I desire to do something for thee.'
+
+"Arjuna said,--'O sinless one, thou regardest thyself as saved (by me)
+from imminent death. Even if it hath been so, I cannot make thee do
+anything for me. At the same time, O Danava, I do not wish to frustrate
+thy intentions. Do thou something for Krishna. That will be a sufficient
+requital for my services to thee.'"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Then, O bull of the Bharata race, urged by Maya,
+Vasudeva reflected for a moment as to what he should ask Maya to
+accomplish. Krishna, the Lord of the universe and the Creator of every
+object, having reflected in his mind, thus commanded Maya,--'Let a
+palatial sabha (meeting hall) as thou choosest, be built (by thee), if
+thou, O son of Diti, who art the foremost of all artists, desirest to do
+good to Yudhishthira the just. Indeed, build thou such a palace that
+persons belonging to the world of men may not be able to imitate it even
+after examining it with care, while seated within. And, O Maya, build thou
+a mansion in which we may behold a combination of godly, asuric and human
+designs.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Having heard those words, Maya became
+exceedingly glad. And he forthwith built a magnificent palace for the son
+of Pandu like unto the palace of the celestials themselves. Then Krishna
+and Partha (Arjuna) after having narrated everything unto king
+Yudhishthira the just, introduced Maya unto him. Yudhishthira received
+Maya with respect, offering him the honour he deserved. And, O Bharata,
+Maya accepted that honour thinking highly of it. O monarch of the Bharata
+race, that great son of Diti then recited unto the sons of Pandu the
+history of the Danava Vrisha-parva, and that foremost of artists then,
+having rested awhile, set himself after much thoughtful planning to build
+a palace for the illustrious sons of Pandu. Agreeably to the wishes of
+both Krishna and the sons of Pritha, the illustrious Danava of great
+prowess, having performed on an auspicious day the initial propitiatory
+rites of foundation and having also gratified thousands of well-versed
+Brahmanas with sweetened milk and rice and with rich presents of various
+kinds, measured out a plot of land five thousand cubits square, which was
+delightful and exceedingly handsome to behold and which was favourable for
+construction of a building well-suited to the exigencies of every season."
+
+
+SECTION II
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Janardana deserving the worship of all, having lived
+happily at Khandavaprastha for some time, and having been treated all the
+while with respectful love and affection by the sons of Pritha, became
+desirous one day of leaving Khandavaprastha to behold his father. That
+possessor of large eyes, unto whom was due the obeisance of the universe,
+then saluted both Yudhishthira and Pritha and made obeisance with his head
+unto the feet of Kunti, his father's sister. Thus revered by Kesava,
+Pritha smelt his head and embraced him. The illustrious Hrishikesa
+approached his own sister Subhadra affectionately, with his eyes filled
+with tears, and spoke unto her words of excellent import and truth, terse
+proper, unanswerable and fraught with good. The sweet-speeched Subhadra
+also, saluting him in return and worshipping him repeatedly with bent head,
+told him all that she wished to be conveyed to her relatives on the
+paternal side. And bidding her farewell and uttering benedictions on his
+handsome sister, he of the Vrishni race, next saw Draupadi and Dhaumya.
+That best of men duly made obeisance unto Dhaumya, and consoling Draupadi
+obtained leave from her. Then the learned and mighty Krishna, accompanied
+by Partha, went to his cousins. And surrounded by the five brothers,
+Krishna shone like Sakra in the midst of the celestials. He whose banner
+bore the figure of Garuda, desirous of performing the rites preparatory to
+the commencement of a journey, purified himself by a bath and adorned his
+person with ornaments. The bull of the Yadu race then worshipped the gods
+and Brahmanas with floral wreaths, mantras, bows of the head, and
+excellent perfumes. Having finished all these rites, that foremost of
+steady and virtuous persons then thought of setting out. The chief of the
+Yadu race then came out of the inner to the outer apartment, and issuing
+thence he made unto Brahmanas, deserving of worship, offerings of vessel-
+fulls of curd and fruits, and parched-grain and caused them to pronounce
+benedictions upon him. And making unto them presents also of wealth, he
+went round them. Then ascending his excellent car of gold endued with
+great speed and adorned with banner bearing the figure of Tarkhya (Garuda)
+and furnished also with mace, discus, sword, his bow Sharnga and other
+weapons, and yoking thereunto his horses Saivya and Sugriva, he of eyes
+like lotuses set out at an excellent moment of a lunar day of auspicious
+stellar conjunction. And Yudhishthira, the king of the Kurus, from
+affection, ascended the chariot after Krishna, and causing that best
+charioteer Daruka to stand aside, himself took the reins. And Arjuna also,
+of long arms, riding on that car, walked round Krishna and fanned him with
+a white chamara furnished with a handle of gold. And the mighty Bhimasena
+accompanied by the twin brothers Nakula and Sahadeva and the priests and
+citizens all followed Krishna from behind. And Kesava, that slayer of
+hostile heroes, followed by all the brothers, shone like a preceptor
+followed by his favourite pupils. Then Govinda spoke unto Arjuna and
+clasped him firmly, and worshipping Yudhisthira and Bhima, embraced the
+twins. And embraced in return by the three elder Pandavas, he was
+reverentially saluted by the twins. After having gone about half a Yojana
+(two miles), Krishna, that subjugator of hostile towns, respectfully
+addressed Yudhishthira and requested him, O Bharata, to stop following him
+further. And Govinda, conversant with every duty, then reverentially
+saluted Yudhishthira and took hold of his feet. But Yudhishthira soon
+raised Kesava and smelt his head. King Yudhishthira the just, the son of
+Pandu, having raised Krishna endued with eyes like lotus-petals and the
+foremost of the Yadava race, gave him leave, saying,--'Good bye!' Then the
+slayer of Madhu, making an appointment with them (about his return) in
+words that were proper, and preventing with difficulty the Pandavas from
+following him further on foot, gladly proceeded towards his own city, like
+Indra going towards Amravati. Out of the love and affection they bore him,
+the Pandavas gazed on Krishna as long as he was within sight, and their
+minds also followed him when he got out of sight. And Kesava of agreeable
+person soon disappeared from their sight, unsatiated though their minds
+were with looking at him. Those bulls among men, the sons of Pritha, with
+minds fixed on Govinda, desisted (from following him further) and
+unwillingly returned to their own city in haste. And Krishna in his car
+soon reached Dwaraka followed by that hero Satyaki. Then Sauri, the son of
+Devaki, accompanied by his charioteer Daruka reached Dwaraka with the
+speed of Garuda."
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Meanwhile king Yudhishthira of unfading glory,
+accompanied by his brothers and surrounded by friends, entered his
+excellent capital. And that tiger among men, dismissing all his relatives,
+brothers, and sons, sought to make himself happy in the company of
+Draupadi. And Kesava also, worshipped by the principal Yadavas including
+Ugrasena, entered with a happy heart his own excellent city. And
+worshipping his old father and his illustrious mother, and saluting (his
+brother) Valadeva, he of eyes like lotus-petals took his seat. Embracing
+Pradyumna, Shamva, Nishatha, Charudeshna, Gada, Aniruddha and Bhanu, and
+obtaining the leave of all the elderly men, Janardana entered the
+apartments of Rukmini."
+
+
+SECTION III
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Then Maya Danava addressed Arjuna, that foremost of
+successful warriors, saying,--'I now go with thy leave, but shall come
+back soon. On the north of the Kailasa peak near the mountains of Mainaka,
+while the Danavas were engaged in a sacrifice on the banks of Vindu lake,
+I gathered a huge quantity of delightful and variegated vanda (a kind of
+rough materials) composed of jewels and gems. This was placed in the
+mansion of Vrishaparva ever devoted to truth. If it be yet existing, I
+shall come back, O Bharata, with it. I shall then commence the
+construction of the delightful palace of the Pandavas, which is to be
+adorned with every kind of gems and celebrated all over the world. There
+is also, I think, O thou of the Kuru race, a fierce club placed in the
+lake Vindu by the King (of the Danavas) after slaughtering therewith all
+his foes in battle. Besides being heavy and strong and variegated with
+golden knobs, it is capable of bearing great weight, and of slaying all
+foes, and is equal in strength unto an hundred thousand clubs. It is a fit
+weapon for Bhima, even as the Gandiva is for thee. There is also (in that
+lake) a large conch-shell called Devadatta of loud sound, that came from
+Varuna. I shall no doubt give all these to thee.' Having spoken thus unto
+Partha, the Asura went away in a north-easterly direction. On the north of
+Kailasa in the mountains of Mainaka, there is a huge peak of gems and
+jewels called Hiranya-sringa. Near that peak is a delightful lake of the
+name of Vindu. There, on its banks, previously dwelt king Bhagiratha for
+many years, desiring to behold the goddess Ganga, since called Bhagirathee
+after that king's name. And there, on its banks, O thou best of the
+Bharatas, Indra the illustrious lord of every created thing, performed one
+hundred great sacrifices. There, for the sake of beauty, though not
+according to the dictates of the ordinance, were placed sacrificial stakes
+made of gems and altars of gold. There, after performing those sacrifices,
+the thousand-eyed lord of Sachi became crowned with success. There the
+fierce Mahadeva, the eternal lord of every creature, has taken up his
+abode after having created all the worlds and there he dwelleth,
+worshipped with reverence by thousands of spirits. There Nara and Narayana,
+Brahma and Yama and Sthanu the fifth, perform their sacrifices at the
+expiration of a thousand yugas. There, for the establishment of virtue and
+religion, Vasudeva, with pious devotion, performed his sacrifices
+extending for many, many long years. There were placed by Keshava
+thousands and tens of thousands of sacrificial stakes adorned with golden
+garlands and altars of great splendour. Going thither, O Bharata, Maya
+brought back the club and the conch-shell and the various crystalline
+articles that had belonged to king Vrishaparva. And the great Asura, Maya,
+having gone thither, possessed himself of the whole of the great wealth
+which was guarded by Yakshas and Rakshasas. Bringing them, the Asura
+constructed therewith a peerless palace, which was of great beauty and of
+celestial make, composed entirely of gems and precious stones, and
+celebrated throughout the three worlds. He gave unto Bhimasena that best
+of clubs, and unto Arjuna the most excellent conch-shell at whose sound
+all creatures trembled in awe. And the palace that Maya built consisted of
+columns of gold, and occupied, O monarch, an area of five thousand cubits.
+The palace, possessing an exceedingly beautiful form, like unto that of
+Agni or Suryya, or Soma, shone in great splendour, and by its brilliance
+seemed to darken even the bright rays of the sun. And with the effulgence
+it exhibited, which was a mixture of both celestial and terrestrial light,
+it looked as if it was on fire. Like unto a mass of new clouds conspicuous
+in the sky, the palace rose up coming into view of all. Indeed, the palace
+that the dexterous Maya built was so wide, delightful, and refreshing, and
+composed of such excellent materials, and furnished with such golden walls
+and archways, and adorned with so many varied pictures, and was withal so
+rich and well-built, that in beauty it far surpassed Sudharma of the
+Dasarha race, or the mansion of Brahma himself. And eight thousand
+Rakshasas called Kinkaras, fierce, huge-bodied and endued with great
+strength, of red coppery eyes and arrowy ears, well-armed and capable of
+ranging through the air, used to guard and protect that palace. Within
+that palace Maya placed a peerless tank, and in that tank were lotuses
+with leaves of dark-coloured gems and stalks of bright jewels, and other
+flowers also of golden leaves. And aquatic fowls of various species
+sported on its bosom. Itself variegated with full-blown lotuses and
+stocked with fishes and tortoises of golden hue, its bottom was without
+mud and its water transparent. There was a flight of crystal stairs
+leading from the banks to the edge of the water. The gentle breezes that
+swept along its bosom softly shook the flowers that studded it. The banks
+of that tank were overlaid with slabs of costly marble set with pearls.
+And beholding that tank thus adorned all around with jewels and precious
+stones, many kings that came there mistook it for land and fell into it
+with eyes open. Many tall trees of various kinds were planted all around
+the palace. Of green foliage and cool shade, and ever blossoming, they
+were all very charming to behold. Artificial woods were laid around,
+always emitting a delicious fragrance. And there were many tanks also that
+were adorned with swans and Karandavas and Chakravakas (Brahminy ducks) in
+the grounds lying about the mansion. And the breeze bearing the fragrance
+of lotuses growing in water and (of those growing on land) ministered unto
+the pleasure and happiness of the Pandavas. And Maya having constructed
+such a palatial hall within fourteen months, reported its completion unto
+Yudhishthira."
+
+
+SECTION IV
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Then that chief of men, king Yudhishthira, entered
+that palatial sabha having first fed ten thousand Brahmanas with
+preparations of milk and rice mixed with clarified butter and honey with
+fruits and roots, and with pork and venison. The king gratified those
+superior Brahmanas, who had come from various countries with food seasoned
+with seasamum and prepared with vegetables called jibanti, with rice mixed
+with clarified butter, with different preparations of meat--with indeed
+various kinds of other food, as also numberless viands that are fit to be
+sucked and innumerable kinds of drinks, with new and unused robes and
+clothes, and with excellent floral wreaths. The king also gave unto each
+of those Brahmanas a thousand kine. And, O Bharata, the voice of the
+gratified Brahmanas uttering,--'What an auspicious day is this!' became so
+loud that it seemed to reach heaven itself. And when the Kuru king entered
+the palatial sabha having also worshipped the gods with various kinds of
+music and numerous species of excellent and costly perfumes, the athletes
+and mimes and prize-fighters and bards and encomiasts began to gratify
+that illustrious son of Dharma by exhibiting their skill. And thus
+celebrating his entry into the palace, Yudhishthira with his brothers
+sported within that palace like Sakra himself in heaven. Upon the seats in
+that palace sat, along with the Pandavas, Rishis and kings that came from
+various countries, viz., Asita and Devala, Satya, Sarpamali and Mahasira;
+Arvavasu, Sumitra, Maitreya, Sunaka and Vali; Vaka, Dalvya, Sthulasira,
+Krishna-Dwaipayana, and Suka Sumanta, Jaimini, Paila, and the disciples of
+Vyasa, viz., ourselves; Tittiri, Yajanavalkya, and Lomaharshana with his
+son; Apsuhomya, Dhaumya, Animandavya; and Kausika; Damoshnisha and
+Traivali, Parnada, and Varayanuka, Maunjayana, Vayubhaksha, Parasarya, and
+Sarika; Valivaka, Silivaka, Satyapala, and Krita-srama; Jatukarna, and
+Sikhavat. Alamva and Parijataka; the exalted Parvata, and the great Muni
+Markandeya; Pavitrapani, Savarna, Bhaluki, and Galava. Janghabandhu,
+Raibhya, Kopavega, and Bhrigu: Harivabhru, Kaundinya, Vabhrumali, and
+Sanatana, Kakshivat, and Ashija, Nachiketa, and Aushija, Nachiketa, and
+Gautama; Painga, Varaha, Sunaka, and Sandilya of great ascetic merit:
+Kukkura, Venujangha, Kalapa and Katha;--these virtuous and learned Munis
+with senses and souls under complete control, and many others as numerous,
+all well-skilled in the Vedas and Vedangas and conversant with (rules of)
+morality and pure and spotless in behaviour, waited on the illustrious
+Yudhishthira, and gladdened him by their sacred discourses. And so also
+numerous principal Kshatriyas, such as the illustrious and virtuous
+Mujaketu, Vivarddhana, Sangramjit, Durmukha, the powerful Ugrasena;
+Kakshasena, the lord of the Earth, Kshemaka the invincible; Kamatha, the
+king of Kamvoja, and the mighty Kampana who alone made the Yavanas to ever
+tremble at his name just as the god that wieldeth the thunder-bolt maketh
+those Asuras, the Kalakeyas, tremble before him; Jatasura, and the king of
+the Madrakas, Kunti, Pulinda the king of the Kiratas, and the kings of
+Anga and Vanga, and Pandrya, and the king of Udhara, and Andhaka; Sumitra,
+and Saivya that slayer of foes; Sumanas, the king of the Kiratas, and
+Chanur the King of the Yavanas, Devarata, Bhoja, and the so called
+Bhimaratha, Srutayudha--the king of Kalinga, Jayasena the king of Magadha;
+and Sukarman, and Chekitana, and Puru that slayer of foes; Ketumata,
+Vasudana, and Vaideha and Kritakshana: Sudharman, Aniruddha, Srutayu
+endued with great strength; the invincible Anuparaja, the handsome
+Karmajit; Sisupala with his son, the king of Karusha; and the invincible
+youths of the Vrishni race, all equal in beauty unto the celestials, viz.,
+Ahuka, Viprithu, Sada, Sarana, Akrura, Kritavarman, and Satyaka, the son
+of Sini; and Bhismaka, Ankriti, and the powerful Dyumatsena, those chief
+of bowmen viz., the Kaikeyas and Yajnasena of the Somaka race; these
+Kshatriyas endued with great might, all well-armed and wealthy, and many
+others also regarded as the foremost, all waited upon Yudhishthira, the
+son of Kunti, in that Sabha, desirous of ministering to his happiness. And
+those princes also, endued with great strength, who dressing themselves in
+deer-skins learnt the science of weapons under Arjuna, waited upon
+Yudhishthira. And O king, the princes also of the Vrishni race, viz.,
+Pradyumna (the son of Rukmini) and Samva, and Yuyudhana the son of Satyaki
+and Sudharman and Aniruddha and Saivya that foremost of men who had learnt
+the science of arms under Arjuna these and many other kings, O lord of the
+Earth, used to wait on Yudhishthira on that occasion. And that friend of
+Dhananjaya, Tumvuru, and the Gandharva Chittasena with his ministers, any
+many other Gandharvas and Apsaras, well-skilled in vocal and instrumental
+music and in cadence and Kinnaras also well-versed in (musical) measures
+and motions singing celestial tunes in proper and charming voices, waited
+upon and gladdened the sons of Pandu and the Rishis who sat in that Sabha.
+And seated in that Sabha, those bull among men, of rigid vows and devoted
+to truth, all waited upon Yudhishthira like the celestials in heaven
+waiting upon Brahma."
+
+
+SECTION V
+
+(Lokapala Sabhakhayana Parva)
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"While the illustrious Pandavas were seated in that
+Sabha along with the principal Gandharvas, there came, O Bharata, unto
+that assembly the celestial Rishi Narada, conversant with the Vedas and
+Upanishadas, worshipped by the celestials acquainted with histories and
+Puranas, well-versed in all that occurred in ancient kalpas (cycles),
+conversant with Nyaya (logic) and the truth of moral science, possessing a
+complete knowledge of the six Angas (viz., pronunciation, grammar, prosody,
+explanation of basic terms, description of religious rites, and astronomy).
+He was a perfect master in reconciling contradictory texts and
+differentiating in applying general principles to particular cases, as
+also in interpreting contraries by reference to differences in situation,
+eloquent, resolute, intelligent, possessed of powerful memory. He was
+acquainted with the science of morals and politics, learned, proficient in
+distinguishing inferior things from superior ones, skilled in drawing
+inference from evidence, competent to judge of the correctness or
+incorrectness of syllogistic statements consisting of five propositions.
+He was capable of answering successively Vrihaspati himself while arguing,
+with definite conclusions properly framed about religion, wealth, pleasure
+and salvation, of great soul and beholding this whole universe, above,
+below, and around, as if it were present before his eyes. He was master of
+both the Sankhya and Yoga systems of philosophy, ever desirous of humbling
+the celestials and Asuras by fomenting quarrels among them, conversant
+with the sciences of war and treaty, proficient in drawing conclusions by
+judging of things not within direct ken, as also in the six sciences of
+treaty, war, military campaigns, maintenance of posts against the enemy
+and stratagems by ambuscades and reserves. He was a thorough master of
+every branch of learning, fond of war and music, incapable of being
+repulsed by any science or any course of action, and possessed of these
+and numberless other accomplishments. The Rishi, having wandered over the
+different worlds, came into that Sabha. And the celestial Rishi of
+immeasurable splendour, endued with great energy was accompanied, O
+monarch, by Parijata and the intelligent Raivata and Saumya and Sumukha.
+Possessing the speed of the mind, the Rishi came thither and was filled
+with gladness upon beholding the Pandavas. The Brahmana, on arriving there,
+paid homage unto Yudhishthira by uttering blessings on him and wishing him
+victory. Beholding the learned Rishi arrive, the eldest of the Pandavas,
+conversant with all rules of duty, quickly stood up with his younger
+brothers. Bending low with humility, the monarch cheerfully saluted the
+Rishi, and gave with due ceremonies a befitting seat unto him. The king
+also gave him kine and the usual offerings of the Arghya including honey
+and the other ingredients. Conversant with every duty the monarch also
+worshipped the Rishi with gems and jewels with a whole heart. Receiving
+that worship from Yudhishthira in proper form, the Rishi became gratified.
+Thus worshipped by the Pandavas and the great Rishis, Narada possessing a
+complete mastery over the Vedas, said unto Yudhishthira the following
+words bearing upon religion, wealth, pleasures and salvation.
+
+"Narada said--'Is the wealth thou art earning being spent on proper
+objects? Doth thy mind take pleasure in virtue? Art thou enjoying the
+pleasures of life? Doth not thy mind sink under their weight? O chief of
+men, continuest thou in the noble conduct consistent with religion and
+wealth practised by thy ancestors towards the three classes of subjects,
+(viz., good, indifferent, and bad)? Never injurest thou religion for the
+sake of wealth, or both religion and wealth for the sake of pleasure that
+easily seduces? O thou foremost of victorious men ever devoted to the good
+of all, conversant as thou art with the timeliness of everything,
+followest thou religion, wealth, pleasure and salvation dividing thy time
+judiciously? O sinless one, with the six attributes of kings (viz.,
+cleverness of speech, readiness in providing means, intelligence in
+dealing with the foe, memory, and acquaintance with morals and politics),
+dost thou attend to the seven means (viz., sowing dissensions,
+chastisement, conciliation, gifts, incantations, medicine and magic)?
+Examinest thou also, after a survey of thy own strength and weakness, the
+fourteen possessions of thy foes? These are the country, forts, cars,
+elephants, cavalry, foot-soldiers, the principal officials of state, the
+zenana, food supply, computations of the army and income, the religious
+treatises in force, the accounts of state, the revenue, wine-shops and
+other secret enemies. Attendest thou to the eight occupations (of
+agriculture, trade, &c), having examined, O thou foremost of victorious
+monarchs, thy own and thy enemy's means, and having made peace with thy
+enemies? O bull of the Bharata race, thy seven principal officers of state
+(viz., the governor of the citadel, the commander of forces, the chief
+judge, the general in interior command, the chief priest, the chief
+physician, and the chief astrologer), have not, I hope, succumbed to the
+influence of thy foes, nor have they, I hope, become idle in consequence
+of the wealth they have earned? They are, I hope, all obedient to thee.
+Thy counsels, I hope, are never divulged by thy trusted spies in disguise,
+by thyself or by thy ministers? Thou ascertainest, I hope, what thy
+friends, foes and strangers are about? Makest thou peace and makest thou
+war at proper times? Observest thou neutrality towards strangers and
+persons that are neutral towards thee? And, O hero, hast thou made persons
+like thyself, persons that are old, continent in behaviour, capable of
+understanding what should be done and what should not, pure as regards
+birth and blood, and devoted to thee, thy ministers? O Bharata, the
+victories of kings can be attributed to good counsels. O child, is thy
+kingdom protected by ministers learned in Sastras, keeping their counsels
+close? Are thy foes unable to injure it? Thou hast not become the slave of
+sleep? Wakest thou at the proper time? Conversant with pursuits yielding
+profit, thinkest thou, during the small hours of night, as to what thou
+shouldst do and what thou shouldst not do the next day? Thou settlest
+nothing alone, nor takest counsels with many? The counsels thou hast
+resolved upon, do not become known all over thy kingdom? Commencest thou
+soon to accomplish measures of great utility that are easy of
+accomplishment? Such measures are never obstructed? Keepest thou the
+agriculturists not out of thy sight? They do not fear to approach thee?
+Achievest thou thy measures through persons that are trusted
+incorruptible, and possessed of practical experience? And, O brave king, I
+hope, people only know the measures already accomplished by thee and those
+that have been partially accomplished and are awaiting completion, but not
+those that are only in contemplation and uncommenced? Have experienced
+teachers capable of explaining the causes of things and learned in the
+science of morals and every branch of learning, been appointed to instruct
+the princes and the chiefs of the army? Buyest thou a single learned man
+by giving in exchange a thousand ignorant individuals? The man that is
+learned conferreth the greatest benefit in seasons of distress. Are thy
+forts always filled with treasure, food, weapons, water, engines and
+instruments, as also with engineers and bowmen? Even a single minister
+that is intelligent, brave, with his passions under complete control, and
+possessed of wisdom and judgment, is capable of conferring the highest
+prosperity on a king or a king's son. I ask thee, therefore, whether there
+is even one such minister with thee? Seekest thou to know everything about
+the eighteen Tirthas of the foe and fifteen of thy own by means of three
+and three spies all unacquainted with one another? O slayer of all foes,
+watchest thou all thy enemies with care and attention, and unknown to
+them? Is the priest thou honourest, possessed of humility, and purity of
+blood, and renown, and without jealousy and illiberality? Hath any well-
+behaved, intelligent, and guileless Brahmana, well-up in the ordinance,
+been employed by thee in the performance of thy daily rites before the
+sacred fire, and doth he remind thee in proper time as to when thy homa
+should be performed? Is the astrologer thou hast employed skilled in
+reading physiognomy, capable of interpreting omens, and competent to
+neutralise the effect of the disturbances of nature? Have respectable
+servants been employed by thee in offices that are respectable,
+indifferent ones in indifferent offices, and low ones in offices that are
+low? Hast thou appointed to high offices ministers that are guileless and
+of well conduct for generations and above the common run? Oppressest thou
+not thy people with cruel and severe punishment? And, O bull of the
+Bharata race, do thy ministers rule thy kingdom under thy orders? Do thy
+ministers ever slight thee like sacrificial priests slighting men that are
+fallen (and incapable of performing any more sacrifices) or like wives
+slighting husbands that are proud and incontinent in their behaviour? Is
+the commander of thy forces possessed of sufficient confidence, brave,
+intelligent, patient, well-conducted, of good birth, devoted to thee, and
+competent? Treatest thou with consideration and regard the chief officers
+of thy army that are skilled in every kind of welfare, are forward, well-
+behaved, and endued with prowess? Givest thou to thy troops their
+sanctioned rations and pay in the appointed time? Thou dost not oppress
+them by withholding these? Knowest thou that the misery caused by arrears
+of pay and irregularity in the distribution of rations driveth the troops
+to mutiny, and that is called by the learned to be one of the greatest of
+mischiefs? Are all the principal high-born men devoted to thee, and ready
+with cheerfulness to lay down their lives in battle for thy sake? I hope
+no single individual of passions uncontrolled is ever permitted by thee to
+rule as he likes a number of concerns at the same time appertaining to the
+army? Is any servant of thine, who hath accomplished well a particular
+business by the employment of special ability, disappointed in obtaining
+from thee a little more regard, and an increase of food and pay? I hope
+thou rewardest persons of learning and humility, and skill in every kind
+of knowledge with gifts of wealth and honour proportionate to their
+qualifications. Dost thou support, O bull in the Bharata race, the wives
+and children of men that have given their lives for thee and have been
+distressed on thy account? Cherishest thou, O son of Pritha, with paternal
+affection the foe that hath been weakened, or him also that hath sought
+thy shelter, having been vanquished in battle? O lord of Earth, art thou
+equal unto all men, and can every one approach thee without fear, as if
+thou wert their mother and father? And O bull of the Bharata race,
+marchest thou, without loss of time, and reflecting well upon three kinds
+of forces, against thy foe when thou hearest that he is in distress? O
+subjugator of all foes beginnest thou thy march when the time cometh,
+having taken into consideration all the omens you might see, the
+resolutions thou hast made, and that the ultimate victory depends upon the
+twelve mandalas (such as reserves, ambuscades, &c, and payment of pay to
+the troops in advance)? And, O persecutor of all foes, givest thou gems
+and jewels, unto the principal officers of enemy, as they deserve, without
+thy enemy's knowledge? O son of Pritha, seekest thou to conquer thy
+incensed foes that are slaves to their passions, having first conquered
+thy own soul and obtained the mastery over thy own senses? Before thou
+marchest out against thy foes, dost thou properly employ the four arts of
+reconciliation, gift (of wealth) producing disunion, and application of
+force? O monarch, goest thou out against thy enemies, having first
+strengthened thy own kingdom? And having gone out against them, exertest
+thou to the utmost to obtain victory over them? And having conquered them,
+seekest thou to protect them with care? Are thy army consisting of four
+kinds of forces, viz., the regular troops, the allies, the mercenaries,
+and the irregulars, each furnished with the eight ingredients, viz., cars,
+elephants, horses, offices, infantry, camp-followers, spies possessing a
+thorough knowledge of the country, and ensigns led out against thy enemies
+after having been well trained by superior officers? O oppressor of all
+foes, O great king, I hope thou slayest thy foes without regarding their
+seasons of reaping and of famine? O king, I hope thy servants and agents
+in thy own kingdom and in the kingdoms of thy foes continue to look after
+their respective duties and to protect one another. O monarch, I hope
+trusted servants have been employed by thee to look after thy food, the
+robes thou wearest and the perfumes thou usest. I hope, O king, thy
+treasury, barns, stables arsenals, and women's apartments, are all
+protected by servants devoted to thee and ever seeking thy welfare. I
+hope, O monarch, thou protectest first thyself from thy domestic and
+public servants, then from those servants of thy relatives and from one
+another. Do thy servants, O king, ever speak to thee in the forenoon
+regarding thy extravagant expenditure in respect of thy drinks, sports,
+and women? Is thy expenditure always covered by a fourth, a third or a
+half of thy income? Cherishest thou always, with food and wealth,
+relatives, superiors, merchants, the aged, and other proteges, and the
+distressed? Do the accountants and clerks employed by thee in looking
+after thy income and expenditure, always appraise thee every day in the
+forenoon of thy income and expenditure? Dismissest thou without fault
+servants accomplished in business and popular and devoted to thy welfare?
+O Bharata, dost thou employ superior, indifferent, and low men, after
+examining them well in offices they deserve? O monarch, employest thou in
+thy business persons that are thievish or open to temptation, or hostile,
+or minors? Persecutest thou thy kingdom by the help of thievish or
+covetous men, or minors, or women? Are the agriculturists in thy kingdom
+contented. Are large tanks and lakes constructed all over thy kingdom at
+proper distances, without agriculture being in thy realm entirely
+dependent on the showers of heaven? Are the agriculturists in thy kingdom
+wanting in either seed or food? Grantest thou with kindness loans (of
+seed-grains) unto the tillers, taking only a fourth in excess of every
+measure by the hundred? O child, are the four professions of agriculture,
+trade, cattle-rearing, and lending at interest, carried on by honest men?
+Upon these O monarch, depends the happiness of thy people. O king, do the
+five brave and wise men, employed in the five offices of protecting the
+city, the citadel, the merchants, and the agriculturists, and punishing
+the criminals, always benefit thy kingdom by working in union with one
+another? For the protection of thy city, have the villages been made like
+towns, and the hamlets and outskirts of villages like villages? Are all
+these entirely under thy supervision and sway? Are thieves and robbers
+that sack thy town pursued by thy police over the even and uneven parts of
+thy kingdom? Consolest thou women and are they protected in thy realm? I
+hope thou placest not any confidence in them, nor divulgest any secret
+before any of them? O monarch, having heard of any danger and having
+reflected on it also, liest thou in the inner apartments enjoying every
+agreeable object? Having slept during the second and the third divisions
+of the night, thinkest thou of religion and profit in the fourth division
+wakefully. O son of Pandu, rising from bed at the proper time and dressing
+thyself well, showest thou thyself to thy people, accompanied by ministers
+conversant with the auspiciousness or otherwise of moments? O represser of
+all foes, do men dressed in red and armed with swords and adorned with
+ornaments stand by thy side to protect thy person? O monarch! behavest
+thou like the god of justice himself unto those that deserve punishment
+and those that deserve worship, unto those that are dear to thee and those
+that thou likest not? O son of Pritha, seekest thou to cure bodily
+diseases by medicines and fasts, and mental illness with the advice of the
+aged? I hope that the physicians engaged in looking after thy health are
+well conversant with the eight kinds of treatment and are all attached and
+devoted to thee. Happeneth it ever, O monarch, that from covetousness or
+folly or pride thou failest to decide between the plaintiff and the
+defendant who have come to thee? Deprivest thou, through covetousness or
+folly, of their pensions the proteges who have sought thy shelter from
+trustfulness or love? Do the people that inhabit thy realm, bought by thy
+foes, ever seek to raise disputes with thee, uniting themselves with one
+another? Are those amongst thy foes that are feeble always repressed by
+the help of troops that are strong, by the help of both counsels and
+troops? Are all the principal chieftains (of thy empire) all devoted to
+thee? Are they ready to lay down their lives for thy sake, commanded by
+thee? Dost thou worship Brahmanas and wise men according to their merits
+in respect of various branches of learning? I tell thee, such worship is
+without doubt, highly beneficial to thee. Hast thou faith in the religion
+based on the three Vedas and practised by men who have gone before thee?
+Dost thou carefully follow the practices that were followed by them? Are
+accomplished Brahmanas entertained in thy house and in thy presence with
+nutritive and excellent food, and do they also obtain pecuniary gifts at
+the conclusion of those feasts? Dost thou, with passions under complete
+control and with singleness of mind, strive to perform the sacrifices
+called Vajapeya and Pundarika with their full complement of rites? Bowest
+thou unto thy relatives and superiors, the aged, the gods, the ascetics,
+the Brahmanas, and the tall trees (banian) in villages, that are of so
+much benefit to people? O sinless one, causest thou ever grief or anger in
+any one? Do priests capable of granting thee auspicious fruits ever stand
+by thy side? O sinless one, are thy inclinations and practices such as I
+have described them, and as always enhance the duration of life and spread
+one's renown and as always help the cause of religion, pleasure, and
+profit? He who conducteth himself according to this way, never findeth his
+kingdom distressed or afflicted; and that monarch, subjugating the whole
+earth, enjoyeth a high degree of felicity. O monarch, I hope, no well-
+behaved, pure-souled, and respected person is ever ruined and his life
+taken, on a false charge or theft, by thy ministers ignorant of Sastras
+and acting from greed? And, O bull among men, I hope thy ministers never
+from covetousness set free a real thief, knowing him to be such and having
+apprehended him with the booty about him? O Bharata, I hope, thy ministers
+are never won over by bribes, nor do they wrongly decide the disputes that
+arise between the rich and the poor. Dost thou keep thyself free from the
+fourteen vices of kings, viz., atheism, untruthfulness, anger,
+incautiousness, procrastination, non-visit to the wise, idleness,
+restlessness of mind, taking counsels with only one man, consultation with
+persons unacquainted with the science of profit, abandonment of a settled
+plan, divulgence of counsels, non-accomplishment of beneficial projects,
+and undertaking everything without reflection? By these, O king, even
+monarchs firmly seated on their thrones are ruined. Hath thy study of the
+Vedas, thy wealth and knowledge of the Sastras and marriage been
+fruitful?'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"After the Rishi had finished, Yudhishthira
+asked,--'How, O Rishi, do the Vedas, wealth, wife, and knowledge of the
+Sastras bear fruit?'
+
+"The Rishi answered,--'The Vedas are said to bear fruit when he that hath
+studied them performeth the Agnihotra and other sacrifices. Wealth is said
+to bear fruit when he that hath it enjoyeth it himself and giveth it away
+in charity. A wife is said to bear fruit when she is useful and when she
+beareth children. Knowledge of the Sastras is said to bear fruit when it
+resulteth in humility and good behaviour.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"The great ascetic Narada, having answered
+Yudhishthira thus, again asked that just ruler,--'Do the officers of thy
+government, O king, that are paid from the taxes levied on the community,
+take only their just dues from the merchants that come to thy territories
+from distant lands impelled by the desire of gain? Are the merchants, O
+king, treated with consideration in thy capital and kingdom, capable of
+bringing their goods thither without being deceived by the false pretexts
+of (both the buyers and the officers of government)?
+
+"'Listenest thou always, O monarch, to the words, fraught with instructions
+in religion and wealth, of old men acquainted with economic doctrines? Are
+gifts of honey and clarified butter made to the Brahmanas intended for the
+increase of agricultural produce, of kine, of fruits and flowers, and for
+the sake of virtue? Givest thou always, O king, regularly unto all the
+artisans and artists employed by thee the materials of their works and
+their wages for periods not more than four months? Examinest thou the
+works executed by those that are employed by thee, and applaudest thou
+them before good men, and rewardest thou them, having shewn them proper
+respect? O bull of the Bharata race, followest thou the aphorisms (of the
+sage) in respect of every concern particularly those relating to elephants,
+horses, and cars? O bull of the Bharata race, are the aphorisms relating
+to the science of arms, as also those that relate to the practice of
+engines in warfare--so useful to towns and fortified places, studied in
+thy court? O sinless one, art thou acquainted with all mysterious
+incantations, and with the secrets of poisons destructive of all foes?
+Protectest thou thy kingdom from the fear of fire, of snakes and other
+animals destructive of life, of disease, and Rakshasas? As acquainted thou
+art with every duty, cherishest thou like a father, the blind, the dumb,
+the lame, the deformed, the friendless, and ascetics that have no homes.
+Hast thou banished these six evils, O monarch, viz., sleep, idleness, fear,
+anger, weakness of mind, and procrastination?'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"The illustrious bull among the Kurus, having
+heard these words of that best of Brahmanas, bowed down unto him and
+worshipped his feet. And gratified with everything he heard, the monarch
+said unto Narada of celestial form,--'I shall do all that thou hast
+directed, for my knowledge hath expanded under thy advice!' Having said
+this the king acted conformably to that advice, and gained in time the
+whole Earth bounded by her belt of seas. Narada again spoke, saying,--
+'That king who is thus employed in the protection of four orders,
+Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Sudras, passeth his days here happily
+and attaineth hereafter to the region of Sakra (heaven).'"
+
+
+SECTION VI
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"At the conclusion of Narada's words, king
+Yudhishthira the just worshipped him duly; and commanded by him the
+monarch began to reply succinctly to the questions the Rishi had asked.
+
+"Yudhishthira said--'O holy one, the truths of religion and morality thou
+hast indicated one after another, are just and proper. As regards myself,
+I duly observe those ordinances to the best of my power. Indeed, the acts
+that were properly performed by monarchs of yore are, without doubt, to be
+regarded as bearing proper fruit, and undertaken from solid reasons for
+the attainment of proper objects. O master, we desire to walk in the
+virtuous path of those rulers that had, besides, their souls under
+complete control.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Yudhishthira, the son of Pandu, possessed of
+great glory, having received with reverence the words of Narada and having
+also answered the Rishi thus, reflected for a moment. And perceiving a
+proper opportunity, the monarch, seated beside the Rishi, asked Narada
+sitting at his ease and capable of going into every world at will, in the
+presence of that assembly of kings, saying,--'Possessed of the speed of
+mind, thou wanderest over various and many worlds created in days of yore
+by Brahma, beholding everything. Tell me, I ask thee, if thou hast, O
+Brahmana, ever beheld before anywhere an assembly room like this of mine
+or superior to it!' Hearing these words of Yudhishthira the just, Narada
+smilingly answered the son of Pandu in these sweet accents,--
+
+"Narada said,--'O child, O king I did neither see nor hear of ever before
+amongst men, any assembly room built of gems and precious stones like this
+of thine, O Bharata. I shall, however, describe unto thee the rooms of the
+king of the departed (Yama), of Varuna (Neptune) of great intelligence, of
+Indra, the King of Gods and also of him who hath his home in Kailasha
+(Kuvera). I shall also describe unto thee the celestial Sabha of Brahma
+that dispelleth every kind of uneasiness. All these assembly rooms exhibit
+in their structure both celestial and human designs and present every kind
+of form that exists in the universe. And they are ever worshipped by the
+gods and the Pitris, the Sadhyas, (under-deities called Gana), by ascetics
+offering sacrifices, with souls under complete command, by peaceful Munis
+engaged without intermission in Vedic sacrifices with presents to
+Brahmanas. I shall describe all these to you if, O bull of the Bharata
+race, thou hast any inclinations to listen to me!'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Thus addressed by Narada, the high-souled king
+Yudhishthira the just, with his brothers and all those foremost of
+Brahmanas (seated around him), joined his hands (in entreaty). And the
+monarch then asked Narada, saying,--'Describe unto us all those assembly
+rooms. We desire to listen to thee. O Brahmana, what are the articles with
+which each of the Sabhas are made of? What is the area of each, and what
+is the length and breadth of each? Who wait upon the Grandsire in that
+assembly room? And who also upon Vasava, the Lord of the celestials and
+upon Yama, the son of Vivaswana? Who wait upon Varuna and upon Kuvera in
+their respective assembly rooms. O Brahmana Rishi, tell us all about these.
+We all together desire to hear thee describe them. Indeed, our curiosity
+is great.'" Thus addressed by the son of Pandu, Narada replied, saying,--"O
+monarch, hear ye all about those celestial assembly rooms one after
+another."
+
+
+SECTION VII
+
+"Narada said,--'the celestial assembly room of Sakra is full of lustre.
+He hath obtained it as the fruit of his own acts. Possessed of the
+splendour of the sun, it was built, O scion of the Kuru race, by Sakra
+himself. Capable of going everywhere at will, this celestial assembly
+house is full one hundred and fifty yojanas in length, and hundred
+yojanas in breadth, and five yojanas in height. Dispelling weakness of
+age, grief, fatigue, and fear, auspicious and bestowing good fortune,
+furnished with rooms and seats and adorned with celestial trees, it is
+delightful in the extreme. There sitteth in that assembly room, O son
+of Pritha, on an excellent seat, the Lord of celestials, with his wife
+Sachi endowed with beauty and affluence. Assuming a form incapable of
+description for its vagueness, with a crown on his head and bright
+bracelets on the upper arms, attired in robes of pure white and decked
+with floral wreaths of many hues, there he sitteth with beauty, fame,
+and glory by his side. And the illustrious deity of a hundred sacrifices
+is daily waited upon, O monarch, in that assembly by the Marutas in a
+body, each leading the life of a householder in the bosom of his family.
+And the Siddhyas, celestial Rishis, the Sadhyas in all, the gods, and
+Marutas of brilliant complexion and adorned with golden garlands,--all
+of them in celestial form and decked in ornaments, always wait upon and
+worship the illustrious chief of the immortals, that mighty represser of
+all foes. And O son of Pritha, the celestial Rishis also, all of pure
+souls, with sins completely washed off and resplendent as the fire, and
+possessed of energy, and without sorrow of any kind, and freed from the
+fever of anxiety, and all performers of the Soma sacrifice, also wait
+upon and worship Indra. And Parasara and Parvata and Savarni and Galava;
+and Sankha, and the Muni, Gaursiras, and Durvasa, and Krodhana and Swena
+and the Muni Dhirghatamas; and Pavitrapani, Savarni, Yajnavalkya and
+Bhaluki; and Udyalaka, Swetaketu, and Tandya, and also Bhandayani; and
+Havishmat, and Garishta, and king Harischandra; and Hridya,
+Udarshandilya. Parasarya, Krishivala; Vataskandha, Visakha, Vidhatas and
+Kala. Karaladanta, Tastri, and Vishwakarman, and Tumuru; and other
+Rishis, some born of women and others living upon air, and others again
+living upon fire, these all worship Indra, the wielder of the
+thunderbolt, the lord of all the worlds. And Sahadeva, and Sunitha, and
+Valmiki of great ascetic merit; and Samika of truthful speech, and
+Prachetas ever fulfilling their promises, and Medhatithi, and Vamadeva,
+and Pulastya, Pulaha and Kratu; and Maruta and Marichi, and Sthanu of
+great ascetic merit; and Kakshivat, and Gautama, and Tarkhya, and also the
+Muni Vaishwanara; and the Muni Kalakavrikhiya and Asravya, and also
+Hiranmaya, and Samvartta, and Dehavya, and Viswaksena of great energy; and
+Kanwa, and Katyayana, O king, and Gargya, and Kaushika;--all are present
+there along with the celestial waters and plants; and faith, and
+intelligence, and the goddess of learning, and wealth, religion, and
+pleasure; and lightning, O son of Pandu; and the rain-charged clouds, and
+the winds, and all the loud-sounding forces of heaven; the eastern point,
+the twenty seven fires conveying the sacrificial butter, Agni and Soma,
+and the fire of Indra, and Mitra, and Savitri, and Aryaman; Bhaga, Viswa
+the Sadhyas, the preceptor (Vrihaspati), and also Sukra; and Vishwavasu
+and Chitrasena, and Sumanas, and also Taruna; the Sacrifices, the gifts to
+Brahmanas, the planets, and the stars, O Bharata, and the mantras that are
+uttered in sacrifices--all these are present there. And, O King, many
+Apsaras and Gandharvas, by various kinds of dances and music both
+instrumental and vocal, and by the practice of auspicious rites, and by
+the exhibition of many feats of skill, gratify the lord of the celestials--
+Satakratu--the illustrious slayer of Vala and Vritra. Besides these, many
+other Brahmanas and royal and celestial Rishis, all resplendent as the
+fire, decked in floral wreaths and ornaments, frequently come to and leave
+that assembly, riding on celestial cars of various kinds. And Vrihaspati
+and Sukra are present there on all occasions. These and many other
+illustrious ascetics of rigid vows, and Bhrigu and the seven Rishis who
+are equal, O king, unto Brahma himself, come to and leave that assembly
+house, riding on cars beautiful as the car of Soma, and themselves looking
+as bright therein as Soma himself. This, O mighty armed monarch, is the
+assembly house, called Pushkaramalini, of Indra of a hundred sacrifices
+that I have seen. Listen now to the account of Yama's assembly house.'
+
+
+SECTION VIII
+
+"Narada said,--'O Yudhisthira, I shall now describe the assembly house of
+Yama, the son of Vivaswat, which, O son of Pritha, was built by Viswakarma.
+Listen now to me. Bright as burnished gold, that assembly house, O monarch,
+covers an area of much more than a hundred yojanas. Possessed of the
+splendour of the sun, it yieldeth everything that one may desire. Neither
+very cool nor very hot, it delighteth the heart. In that assembly house
+there is neither grief nor weakness of age, neither hunger nor thirst.
+Nothing disagreeable findeth a place there, nor any kind of evil feelings
+there. Every object of desire, celestial or human, is to be found in that
+mansion. And all kinds of enjoyable articles, as also of sweet, juicy,
+agreeable, and delicious edibles in profusion that are licked, sucked, and
+drunk, are there, O chastiser of all enemies. The floral wreaths in that
+mansion are of the most delicious fragrance, and the trees that stand
+around it yield fruits that are desired of them. There are both cold and
+hot waters and these are sweet and agreeable. In that mansion many royal
+sages of great sanctity and Brahmana sages also of great purity,
+cheerfully wait upon, O child, and worship Yama, the son of Vivaswat. And
+Yayati, Nahusha, Puru, Mandhatri, Somaka, Nriga; the royal sage Trasadasyu,
+Kritavirya, Sautasravas; Arishtanemi, Siddha, Kritavega, Kriti, Nimi,
+Pratarddana, Sivi, Matsya, Prithulaksha, Vrihadratha, Vartta, Marutta,
+Kusika, Sankasya, Sankriti, Dhruva, Chaturaswa, Sadaswormi and king
+Kartavirya; Bharata and Suratha, Sunitha, Nisatha, Nala, Divodasa, and
+Sumanas, Amvarisha, Bhagiratha; Vyaswa, Vadhraswa, Prithuvega,
+Prithusravas, Prishadaswa, Vasumanas, Kshupa, and Sumahavala, Vrishadgu,
+and Vrishasena, Purukutsa, Dhwajin and Rathin; Arshtisena, Dwilipa, and
+the high-souled Ushinara; Ausinari, Pundarika, Saryati, Sarava, and Suchi;
+Anga, Rishta, Vena, Dushmanta, Srinjaya and Jaya; Bhangasuri, Sunitha, and
+Nishada, and Bahinara; Karandhama, Valhika, Sudymna, and the mighty Madhu;
+Aila and the mighty king of earth Maruta; Kapota, Trinaka, and Shadeva,
+and Arjuna also. Vysawa; Saswa and Krishaswa, and king Sasavindu; Rama the
+son of Dasaratha, and Lakshmana, and Pratarddana; Alarka, and Kakshasena,
+Gaya, and Gauraswa; Rama the son of Jamadagnya, Nabhaga, and Sagara;
+Bhuridyumna and Mahaswa, Prithaswa, and also Janaka; king Vainya, Varisena,
+Purujit, and Janamejaya; Brahmadatta, and Trigarta, and king Uparichara
+also; Indradyumna, Bhimajanu, Gauraprishta, Nala, Gaya; Padma and
+Machukunda, Bhuridyumna, Prasenajit; Aristanemi, Sudymna, Prithulauswa,
+and Ashtaka also; a hundred kings of the Matsya race and hundred of the
+Vipa and a hundred of the Haya races; a hundred kings of the name of
+Dhritarashtra, eighty kings of the name of Janamejaya; a hundred monarchs
+called Brahmadatta, and a hundred kings of the name of Iri; more than two
+hundred Bhishmas, and also a hundred Bhimas; a hundred Prativindhyas, a
+hundred Nagas, and a hundred Palasas, and a hundred called Kasa and Kusa;
+that king of kings Santanu, and thy father Pandu, Usangava, Sata-ratha,
+Devaraja, Jayadratha; the intelligent royal sage Vrishadarva with his
+ministers; and a thousand other kings known by the name of Sasa-vindu, and
+who have died, having performed many grand horse-sacrifices with large
+presents to the Brahmanas--these holy royal sages of grand achievements
+and great knowledge of the Sastras, wait upon, O King, and worship the son
+of Vivaswat in that assembly house. And Agastya and Matanga, and Kala, and
+Mrityu (Death), performers of sacrifices, the Siddhas, and many Yogins;
+the Prtris (belonging to the classes--called Agniswattas, Fenapa, Ushampa,
+Swadhavat, and Verhishada), as also those others that have forms; the
+wheel of time, and the illustrious conveyer himself of the sacrificial
+butter; all sinners among human beings, as also those that have died
+during the winter solstice; these officers of Yama who have been appointed
+to count the allotted days of everybody and everything; the Singsapa,
+Palasa, Kasa, and Kusa trees and plants, in their embodied forms, these
+all, O king, wait upon and worship the god of justice in that assembly
+house of his. These and many others are present at the Sabha of the king
+of the Pitris (manes). So numerous are they that I am incapable of
+describing them either by mentioning their names or deeds. O son of Pritha,
+the delightful assembly house, moving everywhere at the will of its owner,
+is of wide extent. It was built by Viswakarma after a long course of
+ascetic penances. And, O Bharata, resplendent with his own effulgence, it
+stands glorified in all its beauty. Sannyasis of severe ascetic penance,
+of excellent vows, and of truthful speech, peaceful and pure and
+sanctified by holy deeds, of shining bodies and attired in spotless robes,
+decked with bracelets and floral garlands, with ear-rings of burnished
+gold, and adorned with their own holy acts as with the marks of their
+order (painted over their bodies), constantly visit that Sabha (Assembly).
+Many illustrious Gandharvas, and many Apsaras fill every part of that
+mansion with music; both instrumental and vocal and with sounds of
+laughter and dance. And, O son of Pritha, excellent perfumes, and sweet
+sounds and garlands of celestial flowers always contribute towards making
+that mansion supremely blest. And hundreds of thousands of virtuous
+persons, of celestial beauty and great wisdom, always wait upon and
+worship the illustrious Yama, the lord of created beings in that assembly
+house. Such, O monarch, is the Sabha, of the illustrious king of the
+Pitris! I shall now describe unto the assembly house of Varuna also called
+Pushkaramalini!'
+
+
+SECTION IX
+
+"Narada said--'O Yudhishthira, the celestial Sabha of Varuna is
+unparalleled in splendour. In dimensions it is similar to that of Yama.
+Its walls and arches are all of pure white. It hath been built by
+Viswakarma (the celestial architect) within the waters. It is surrounded
+on all sides by many celestial trees made of gems and jewels and yielding
+excellent fruits and flowers. And many plants with their weight of
+blossoms, blue and yellow, and black and darkish, and white and red, that
+stand there, or excellent bowers around. Within those bowers hundreds and
+thousands of birds of diverse species, beautiful and variegated, always
+pour forth their melodies. The atmosphere of that mansion is extremely
+delightful, neither cold nor hot. Owned by Varuna, that delightful
+assembly house of pure white consists of many rooms and is furnished with
+many seats. There sitteth Varuna attired in celestial robe, decked in
+celestial ornaments and jewels, with his queen, adorned with celestial
+scents and besmeared with paste of celestial fragrance. The Adityas wait
+upon and worship the illustrious Varuna, the lord of the waters. And
+Vasuki and Takshaka, and the Naga called Airavana; Krishna and Lohita;
+Padma and Chitra endued with great energy; the Nagas called Kamvala and
+Aswatara; and Dhritarashtra and Valahaka; Matimat and Kundadhara and
+Karkotaka and Dhananjaya; Panimat and the mighty Kundaka, O lord of the
+Earth; and Prahlada and Mushikada, and Janamejaya,--all having auspicious
+marks and mandalas and extended hoods;--these and many other snakes, O
+Yudhishthira, without anxiety of any kind, wait upon and worship the
+illustrious Varuna. And, O king, Vali the son of Virochana, and Naraka the
+subjugator of the whole Earth; Sanghraha and Viprachitti, and those
+Danavas called Kalakanja; and Suhanu and Durmukha and Sankha and Sumanas
+and also Sumati; and Ghatodara, and Mahaparswa, and Karthana and also
+Pithara and Viswarupa, Swarupa and Virupa, Mahasiras; and Dasagriva, Vali,
+and Meghavasas and Dasavara; Tittiva, and Vitabhuta, and Sanghrada, and
+Indratapana--these Daityas and Danavas, all bedecked with ear-rings and
+floral wreaths and crowns, and attired in the celestial robes, all blessed
+with boons and possessed of great bravery, and enjoying immortality, and
+all well of conduct and of excellent vows, wait upon and worship in that
+mansion the illustrious Varuna, the deity bearing the noose as his weapon.
+And, O king, there are also the four oceans, the river Bhagirathee, the
+Kalindi, the Vidisa, the Venwa, the Narmada of rapid current; the Vipasa,
+the Satadu, the Chandrabhaga, the Saraswati; the Iravati, the Vitasta, the
+Sindhu, the Devanadi; the Godavari, the Krishnavenwa and that queen of
+rivers the Kaveri; the Kimpuna, the Visalya and the river Vaitarani also;
+the Tritiya, the Jeshthila, and the great Sone (Soane); the Charmanwati
+and the great river Parnasa; the Sarayu, the Varavatya, and that queen of
+rivers the Langali, the Karatoya, the Atreyi, the red Mahanada, the
+Laghanti, the Gomati, the Sandhya, and also the Trisrotasi--these and
+other rivers which are all sacred and are world-renowned places of
+pilgrimage, as also other rivers and sacred waters and lakes and wells and
+springs, and tanks, large or small, in their personified form, O Bharata,
+wait upon and worship the lord Varuna. The points of the heavens, the
+Earth, and all the Mountains, as also every species of aquatic animals,
+all worship Varuna there. And various tribes of Gandharvas and Apsaras,
+devoted to music, both vocal and instrumental, wait upon Varuna, singing
+eulogistic hymns unto him. And all those mountains that are noted for
+being both delightful and rich in jewels, wait (in their personified
+forms) in that Sabha, enjoying sweet converse with one another. And the
+chief minister of Varuna, Sunabha by name, surrounded by his sons and
+grandsons, also attend upon his master, along with (the personified form)
+of a sacred water called go. These all, in their personified forms,
+worship the deity. O bull of the Bharata race, such is the assembly room
+of Varuna seen by me before, in the course of my wanderings. Listen now to
+the account I give of the assembly room of Kuvera.'
+
+
+SECTION X
+
+"Narada said,--'Possessed of great splendour, the assembly house of
+Vaisravana, O king, is a hundred yojanas in length and seventy yojanas in
+breadth. It was built, O king, by Vaisravana himself using his ascetic
+power. Possessing the splendour of the peaks of Kailasa, that mansion
+eclipses by its own the brilliance of the Moon himself. Supported by
+Guhyakas, that mansion seems to be attached to the firmament. Of celestial
+make, it is rendered extremely handsome with high chambers of gold.
+Extremely delightful and rendered fragrant with celestial perfumes, it is
+variegated with numberless costly jewels. Resembling the peaks of a mass
+of white clouds, it seems to be floating in the air. Painted with colours
+of celestial gold, it seems to be decked with streaks of lightning. Within
+that mansion sitteth on an excellent seat bright as the sun and covered
+with celestial carpets and furnished with a handsome footstool, king
+Vaisravana of agreeable person, attired in excellent robes and adorned
+with costly ornaments and ear-rings of great brilliance, surrounded by his
+thousand wives. Delicious and cooling breezes murmuring through forests of
+tall Mandaras, and bearing fragrance of extensive plantations of jasmine,
+as also of the lotuses on the bosom of the river Alaka and of the Nandana-
+gardens, always minister to the pleasure of the King of the Yakshas. There
+the deities with the Gandharvas surrounded by various tribes of Apsaras,
+sing in chorus, O king, notes of celestial sweetness. Misrakesi and Rambha,
+and Chitrasena, and Suchismita; and Charunetra, and Gritachi and Menaka,
+and Punjikasthala; and Viswachi Sahajanya, and Pramlocha and Urvasi and
+Ira, and Varga and Sauraveyi, and Samichi, and Vududa, and Lata--these and
+a thousand other Apsaras and Gandharvas, all well-skilled in music and
+dance, attend upon Kuvera, the lord of treasures. And that mansion, always
+filled with the notes of instrumental and vocal music, as also with the
+sounds of dance of various tribes of Gandharvas, and Apsaras hath become
+extremely charming and delicious. The Gandharvas called Kinnaras, and
+others called Naras, and Manibhadra, and Dhanada, and Swetabhadra and
+Guhyaka; Kaseraka, Gandakandu, and the mighty Pradyota; Kustumvuru,
+Pisacha, Gajakarna, and Visalaka, Varaha-Karna, Tamraushtica, Falkaksha,
+and Falodaka; Hansachuda, Sikhavarta, Vibhishana, Pushpanana, Pingalaka,
+Sonitoda and Pravalaka; Vrikshavaspa-niketa, and Chiravasas--these O
+Bharata, and many other Yakshas by hundred and thousands always wait upon
+Kuvera. The goddess Lakshmi always stayeth there, also Kuvera's son
+Nalakuvera. Myself and many others like myself often repair thither. Many
+Brahmana Rishis and celestial Rishis also repair there often. Many
+Rakshasas, and many Gandharvas, besides those that have been named, wait
+upon the worship, in that mansion, the illustrious lord of all treasures.
+And, O tiger among kings, the illustrious husband of Uma and lord of
+created things, the three-eyed Mahadeva, the wielder of the trident and
+the slayer of the Asura called Bhaga-netra, the mighty god of the fierce
+bow, surrounded by multitudes of spirits in their hundreds and thousands,
+some of dwarfish stature, some of fierce visage, some hunch-backed, some
+of blood-red eyes, some of frightful yells, some feeding upon fat and
+flesh, and some terrible to behold, but all armed with various weapons and
+endued with the speed of wind, with the goddess (Parvati) ever cheerful
+and knowing no fatigue, always waiteth here upon their friend Kuvera, the
+lord of treasures. And hundreds of Gandharva chiefs, with cheerful hearts
+and attired in their respective robes and Viswavasu, and Haha and Huhu;
+and Tumvuru and Parvatta, and Sailusha; and Chitrasena skilled in music
+and also Chitraratha,--these and innumerable Gandharvas worship the lord
+of treasures. And Chakradhaman, the chief of the Vidyadharas, with his
+followers, waiteth in that mansion upon the lord of treasures. And
+Kinnaras by hundreds and innumerable kings with Bhagadatta as their chief,
+and Druma, the chief of the Kimpurushas, and Mahendra, the chief of the
+Rakshasas, and Gandhamadana accompanied by many Yakshas and Gandharvas and
+many Rakshasas wait upon the lord of treasures. The virtuous Vibhishana
+also worshippeth there his elder brother the lord Kuvera (Croesus). The
+mountains of Himavat, Paripatra, Vindhya, Kailasa, Mandara, Malaya,
+Durdura, Mahendra, Gandhamadana, Indrakila, Sunava, and Eastern and the
+Western hills--these and many other mountains, in their personified forms,
+with Meru standing before all, wait upon and worship the illustrious lord
+of treasures. The illustrious Nandiswaras, and Mahakala, and many spirits
+with arrowy ears and sharp-pointed mouths, Kaksha, Kuthimukha, Danti, and
+Vijaya of great ascetic merit, and the mighty white bull of Siva roaring
+deep, all wait in that mansion. Besides these many other Rakshasas and
+Pisachas (devils) worship Kuvera in that assembly house. The son of
+Pulastya (Kuvera) formerly used always to worship in all the modes and sit,
+with permission obtained, beside the god of gods, Siva, the creator of the
+three worlds, that supreme Deity surrounded by his attendants. One day the
+exalted Bhava (Siva) made friendship with Kuvera. From that time, O king,
+Mahadeva always sitteth on the mansion of his friend, the lord of
+treasures. Those best of all jewels, those princes of all gems in the
+three worlds, viz., Sankha and Padma, in their personified forms,
+accompanied by all the jewels of the earth (also in their personified
+forms) worship Kuvera.'
+
+"'This delightful assembly house of Kuvera that I have seen, attached to
+the firmament and capable of moving along it, is such, O king. Listen now
+to the Sabha I describe unto thee, belonging to Brahma the Grandsire.'
+
+
+SECTION XI
+
+"Narada said,--'Listen to me, O child, as I tell thee of the assembly
+house of the Grandsire, that house which none can describe, saying it is
+such. In the Krita (golden) age of old, O king, the exalted deity Aditya
+(once) came down from heaven into the world of men. Having seen before the
+assembly-house of Brahma the Self-created, Aditya was cheerfully wandering
+over the Earth in human form, desirous of beholding what could be seen
+here. It was on that occasion, O son of Pandu, that the god of day spoke
+unto me, O bull of the Bharata race, of that celestial Sabha (assembly) of
+the Grandsire, immeasurable and immaterial and indescribable, as regards
+form and shape, and capable of delighting the heart of every creature by
+its splendour. Hearing, O bull of the Bharata race, of the merits of that
+Sabha, I became, O king, desirous of beholding it. I then asked Aditya,
+saying,--"O exalted one, I desire to behold the sacred Sabha of the
+Grandsire. O lord of light, tell me, O exalted one, by what ascetic
+penances, or by what acts, or by what charms or by what rites, I may be
+enabled to behold that excellent sin-cleaning Sabha."--Hearing these words
+of mine, Aditya the god of day, the deity of a thousand rays, answered me,
+"O chief of the Bharata race, thus: Observe thou, with mind rapt in
+meditation, the Brahma vow extending for a thousand years." Repairing then
+to the breast of the Himavat, I commenced that great vow, and after I had
+completed it the exalted and sinless deity Surya endued with great energy,
+and knowing no fatigue, took me with him to the Sabha of the Grandsire. O
+king, it is impossible to describe that Sabha, saying--it is such, for
+within a moment it assumes a different form that language fails to paint.
+O Bharata, it is impossible to indicate its dimensions or shape. I never
+saw anything like it before. Ever contributing to the happiness of those
+within it, its atmosphere is neither cold nor warm. Hunger and thirst or
+any kind of uneasiness disappear as soon as one goeth thither. It seems to
+be made up of brilliant gems of many kinds. It doth not seem to be
+supported on columns, it knoweth no deterioration, being eternal. That
+self effulgent mansion, by its numerous blazing, celestial indications of
+unrivalled splendour, seems to surpass the moon, the sun and the fire in
+splendour. Stationed in heaven, it blazes forth, censuring as it were the
+maker of the day. In that mansion O king, the Supreme Deity, the Grand-
+sire of all created things, having himself created everything by virtue of
+his creative illusion, stayeth ever. And Daksha, Prachetas, Pulaha,
+Marichi, the master Kasyapa, Bhrigu, Atri, and Vasistha and Gautama, and
+also Angiras, and Pulastya, Kraut, Prahlada, and Kardama, these Prajapatis,
+and Angirasa of the Atharvan Veda, the Valikhilyas, the Marichipas;
+Intelligence, Space, Knowledge, Air, Heat, Water, Earth, Sound, Touch,
+Form, Taste, Scent; Nature, and the Modes (of Nature), and the elemental
+and prime causes of the world,--all stay in that mansion beside the lord
+Brahma. And Agastya of great energy, and Markandeya, of great ascetic
+power, and Jamadagni and Bharadwaja, and Samvarta, and Chyavana, and
+exalted Durvasa, and the virtuous Rishyasringa, the illustrious
+Sanatkumara of great ascetic merit and the preceptor in all matters
+affecting Yoga; Asita and Devala, and Jaigishavya acquainted with truth;
+Rishava, Ajitasatru, and Mani of great energy; and the Science of healing
+with its eight branches--all in their personified forms, O Bharata; the
+moon with all the stars and the stellar conjunctions; Aditya with all his
+rays; the winds; the Sacrifices, the Declarations of purpose (in
+sacrifices), the Vital principles,--these illustrious and vow-observing
+beings in their personified forms, and many others too numerous to mention,
+attend all upon Brahma in that mansion. Wealth and Religion and Desire,
+and Joy, and Aversion, and Asceticism and Tranquillity--all wait together
+upon the Supreme Deity in that palace. The twenty tribes of the Gandharvas
+and Apsaras, as also their seven other tribes, and all the Lokapalas
+(chief protectors of several regions), and Sukra, and Vrihaspati, and
+Vudha, and Angaraka (Mangala), Sani, Rahu, and the other planets; the
+Mantras (of the Sama Veda), the special Mantras (of the same Veda); (the
+rites of) Harimat and Vasumat, the Adityas with Indra, the two Agnis
+mentioned by name (viz. Agnisoma and Indragni), the Marutas, Viswakarman,
+and the Vasus, O Bharata; the Pitris, and all kinds of sacrificial
+libations, the four Vedas. viz., Rig, Sama, Yajuh, and Atharva; all
+Sciences and branches of learning; Histories and all minor branches of
+learning; the several branches of the Vedas; the planets, the Sacrifices,
+the Soma, all the deities; Savitri (Gayatri), the seven kinds of rhyme;
+Understanding, Patience, Memory, Wisdom, Intelligence, Fame, Forgiveness;
+the Hymns of the Sama Veda; the Science of hymns in general, and various
+kinds of Verses and Songs; various Commentaries with arguments;--all in
+their personified forms, O king, and various Dramas and Poems and Stories
+and abridged Glosses--these also, and many others wait upon the Supreme
+Deity in that Sabha, Kshanas, Lavas, Muhurtas, Day, Night, Fortnights,
+Months, the six Seasons, O Bharata, Years, Yugas, the four kinds of Days
+and Nights (viz., appearing to man, to the Pitris, to the gods, and to
+Brahma) and that eternal, indestructible, undeteriorating, excellent Wheel
+of Time and also the Wheel of Virtue,--these always wait there, O
+Yudhishthira; and Aditi, Diti, Danu, Surasa, Vinata, Ira, Kalika, Suravi,
+Devi, Sarama, Gautami and the goddesses Pradha, and Kadru;--these mothers
+of the celestials, and Rudrani, Sree, Lakshmi, Bhadra, Shashthi, the Earth,
+Ganga, Hri, Swaha, Kriti, the goddess Sura, Sachi Pushti, Arundhati,
+Samvritti, Asa, Niyati, Srishti, Rati,--these and many other goddesses
+wait upon the Creator of all. The Adityas, Vasus, Rudras, Marutas, Aswinas,
+the Viswadevas Sadhyas, and the Pitris gifted with the speed of the mind;
+these all wait there upon the Grandsire. And, O bull amongst men,
+know thou that there are seven classes of Pitris, of which four
+classes have embodied forms and the remaining three without embodied
+forms. It is well known that the illustrious Vairajas and Agniswattas
+and Garhapattyas (three classes of Pitris) range in heaven.
+And those amongst the Pitris that are called the Somapas, the
+Ekasringras, the Chaturvedas, and the Kalas, are ever worshipped
+amongst the four orders of men. Gratified with the Soma (juice), first,
+these gratify Soma afterwards. All these tribes of Pitris wait upon
+the Lord of the creation and cheerfully worship the Supreme Deity of
+immeasurable energy. And Rakshasas, Pisachas, the Danavas and Guhyakas;
+Nagas, Birds, and various animals; and all mobile and immobile great
+beings;--all worship the Grandsire. And Purandara the chief of the
+celestials, and Varuna and Kuvera and Yama, and Mahadeva accompanied by
+Uma, always repair thither. And, O king of kings, Mahasena (Kartikeya)
+also adoreth there the Grandsire. Narayana himself, and the celestial
+Rishis, and those Rishis called Valakhillyas, and all beings born of
+females and all those not born of females, and whatever else is seen in
+the three worlds--both mobile and immobile, were all seen by me there,
+know O king. And eighty thousand Rishis with vital seed drawn up, and O
+Pandu, fifty thousand Rishis having sons, were all seen by me there. And
+all the dwellers in heaven repairing thither behold the Supreme Deity when
+they please, and worshipping him with a bow of their head return whence
+they came. And, O king of men, the Grandsire of all created beings, the
+Soul of the universe, the Self create Brahma of immeasurable intelligence
+and glory, equally kind unto all creatures, honoureth as they deserve, and
+gratifieth with sweet speech and gift of wealth and other enjoyable
+articles, the gods, the Daityas, the Nagas, the Brahmanas, the Yakshas,
+the Birds, the Kaleyas, the Gandharvas, the Apsaras, and all other exalted
+beings that came to him as his guests. And that delicious Sabha, O child,
+is always crowded with persons coming and going. Filled with every kind of
+energy, and worshipped by Brahmarshis, that celestial Sabha blazes forth
+with the graceful possessions of Brahma and looks extremely handsome, O
+tiger among kings as this Sabha of yours is unrivalled in the world of men,
+so is that Sabha of Brahma, seen by me unrivalled in all the worlds. I
+have seen these Sabhas, O Bharata, in regions of the celestials. This thy
+Sabha is unquestionably the foremost in the world of men!'
+
+
+SECTION XII
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'O thou foremost of eloquent men, as thou hast
+described the different Sabhas unto me, it appeareth that almost all the
+monarchs of the earth are to be found in the Sabha of Yama. And, O master,
+almost all the Nagas, and principal Daityas, and rivers, and oceans, are
+to be found in the Sabha of Varuna. And so the Yakshas, the Guhyakas, the
+Rakshasas, the Gandharvas and Apsaras and the Deity (Yama) having the bull
+for his vehicle, are to be found in the Sabha of the lord of treasures.
+Thou hast said that in the Sabha of the Grandsire are to be seen all the
+great Rishis, all the gods, all the branches of learning. As regards the
+Sabha of Sakra, however, thou hast named, O Muni, all the gods, the
+Gandharvas, and various Rishis. But, O great Muni, thou hast mentioned one
+and only one king, viz., the royal Rishi Harishchandra as living in the
+Sabha of the illustrious chief of the gods. What act was performed by that
+celebrated king, or what ascetic penances with steady vows, in consequence
+of which he hath been equal to Indra himself? O Brahmana, how didst thou
+also meet with my father, the exalted Pandu, now a guest in the region of
+the Pitris? O exalted one of excellent vows hath he told thee anything? O
+tell me all as I am exceedingly curious to hear all this from thee.'
+
+"Narada said,--'O king of kings, I shall tell thee all that thou askest me
+about Harischandra, I shall presently tell thee of his high excellence. He
+was a powerful king, in fact, an emperor over all the kings of the earth.
+Indeed, all the kings of the earth obeyed his sway. O monarch, mounted
+alone upon a victorious car adorned with gold, that king by the prowess of
+his weapons brought the whole earth with her seven islands under his sway.
+And, O monarch, having subjugated the whole earth with her mountains,
+forests, and woods, he made preparations for the great sacrifice called
+the Rajasuya. And all the kings of the earth brought at his command wealth
+unto that sacrifice. All of them consented to become distributors of food
+and gifts unto the Brahmanas that were fed on the occasion. At that
+sacrifice king Harishchandra gave away unto all who asked, wealth that was
+five times what each had solicited. At the conclusion of the sacrifice,
+the king gratified the Brahmanas that came from various countries with
+large presents of various kinds of wealth. The Brahmanas gratified with
+various kinds of food and enjoyable articles, given away unto them to the
+extent of their desires, and with the heaps of jewels distributed amongst
+them, began to say,--"King Harischandra is superior to all kings in energy
+and renown."--And know, O monarch, O bull of the Bharata race, it was for
+this reason that Harischandra shone more brightly than thousands of other
+kings. The powerful Harischandra having concluded his great sacrifice,
+became installed, O king, in the sovereignty of the earth and looked
+resplendent on his throne. O bull of the Bharata race, all those monarchs
+that perform the sacrifice of Rajasuya, (attaining to the region of Indra)
+pass their time in felicity in Indra's company. And, O bull of the Bharata
+race, those kings also that yield up their lives without turning their
+backs on the field of battle attain to the mansion of Indra and live in
+joy with him. Those again that yield up their bodies after severe ascetic
+penances also attain to the same region and shine brightly there for ages.
+O king of the Kuru race, O son of Kunti, thy father Pandu, beholding the
+good fortune of Harischandra and wondering much thereat, hath told thee
+something. Knowing that I was coming to the world of men, he bowed unto me
+and said,--"Thou shouldst tell Yudhishthira, O Rishi, that he can subjugate
+the whole Earth inasmuch as his brothers are all obedient to him. And
+having done this let him commence the grand sacrifice called Rajasuya. He
+is my son; if he performeth that sacrifice, I may, like Harischandra, soon
+attain to the region of Indra, and there in his Sabha pass countless years
+in continuous joy." I told him in reply,--"O King, I shall tell thy son all
+this, if I go to the world of man." I have now told thee what he said, O
+tiger among men. Accomplish then, O son of Pandu, the desires of thy
+father. If thou performest that sacrifice, thou shall then be able to go,
+along with thy deceased ancestors, into the same region that is inhabited
+by the chief of the immortals. It hath been said,--O king, that the
+performance of this great sacrifice is attended with many obstacles. A
+class of Rakshasas called Brahma Rakshasas, employed in obstructing all
+sacrifices, always search for loop-holes when this great sacrifice is
+commenced. On the commencement of such a sacrifice a war may take place
+destroying the Kshatriyas and even furnishing occasion for the destruction
+of the whole Earth. A slight obstacle may involve the whole Earth in ruin.
+Reflecting upon all this, O king of kings do what is for thy good. Be thou
+watchful and ready in protecting the four orders of thy subjects. Grow,
+thou in prosperity, and enjoy thou felicity. Gratify thou the Brahmanas
+with gifts of wealth. I have now answered in detail all that thou hast
+asked me. With thy leave I will now go to the city (Dwaravati) of that
+Dasarhas.'"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"O Janamejaya, having said this unto the son of Pritha,
+Narada went away, accompanied by those Rishis with whom he had come. And
+after Narada had gone away, king Yudhishthira, O thou of the Kuru race,
+began to think, along with his brothers, of that foremost of sacrifices
+called Rajasuya."
+
+
+SECTION XIII
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Yudhishthira, having heard these words of Narada,
+began to sigh heavily. And, O Bharata, engaged in his thoughts about the
+Rajasuya, the king had no peace of mind. Having heard of this glory of the
+illustrious monarchs (of old) and being certain about the acquisition of
+regions of felicity by performers of sacrifices in consequence of their
+sacred deeds, and thinking especially of that royal sage Harischandra who
+had performed the great sacrifice king Yudhishthira desired to make
+preparations for the Rajasuya sacrifice. Then worshipping his counsellors
+and others present at his Sabha, and worshipped by them in return, he
+began to discuss with them about that sacrifice. Having reflected much,
+that king of kings, that bull amongst the Kurus, inclined his mind towards
+making preparations for the Rajasuya. That prince of wonderful energy and
+prowess, however, reflecting upon virtue and righteousness, again set his
+heart to find out what would be for the good of all his people. For
+Yudhishthira, that foremost of all virtuous men, always kind unto his
+subjects, worked for the good of all without making any distinctions.
+Indeed, shaking off both anger and arrogance, Yudhishthira always said,--
+'Give unto each what is due to each,'--and the only sounds that he could
+hear were,--'Blessed be Dharma! Blessed be Dharma!' Yudhishthira conducting
+himself thus and giving paternal assurance to everybody, there was none in
+the kingdom who entertained any hostile feelings towards him. He therefore
+came to be called Ajatasatru (one with no enemy at all). The king
+cherished every one as belonging to his family, and Bhima ruled over all
+justly. Arjuna, used to employing both his hands with equal skill,
+protected the people from (external) enemies. And the wise Sahadeva
+administered justice impartially. And Nakula behaved towards all with
+humility that was natural to him. Owing to all this, the kingdom became
+free from disputes and fear of every kind. And all the people became
+attentive to their respective occupations. The rain became so abundant as
+to leave no room for desiring more; and the kingdom grew in prosperity.
+And in consequence of the virtues of the king, money-lenders, the articles
+required for sacrifices, cattle-rearing, tillage, and traders, all and
+everything grew in prosperity. Indeed, during the reign of Yudhishthira
+who was ever devoted to truth, there was no extortion, no stringent
+realisation of arrears of rent, no fear of disease, of fire, or of death
+by poisoning and incantations, in the kingdom. It was never heard at that
+time that thieves or cheats or royal favourites ever behaved wrongfully
+towards the king or towards one another amongst themselves. Kings
+conquered on the six occasions (of war, treaty, &c) were wont to wait upon
+him in order to do good unto the monarch and worship him ever, while the
+traders of different classes came to pay him the taxes leviable on their
+respective occupations. And accordingly during the reign of Yudhishthira
+who was ever devoted to virtue, his dominion grew in prosperity. Indeed,
+the prosperity of the kingdom was increased not by these alone but even by
+persons wedded to voluptuousness and indulging in all luxuries to their
+fill. And the king of kings, Yudhishthira, whose sway extended over all,
+was possessed of every accomplishment and bore everything with patience.
+And, O king, whatever countries the celebrated and illustrious monarch
+conquered, the people everywhere, from Brahmanas to swains, were all more
+attached to him than to their own fathers and mothers."
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"King Yudhishthira, then, that foremost of speakers,
+summoning together his counsellors and brothers, asked them repeatedly
+about the Rajasuya sacrifice. Those ministers in a body, thus asked by the
+wise Yudhishthira desirous of performing the sacrifice, then told him
+these words of grave import,--'One already in possession of a kingdom
+desireth all the attributes of an emperor by means of that sacrifice which
+aideth a king in acquiring the attributes of Varuna. O prince of Kuru race,
+thy friends think that as thou art worthy of the attributes of an emperor,
+the time is even come for thee for the performance of the Rajasuya
+sacrifice. The time for the performance of that sacrifice in which Rishis
+of austere vows kindle six fires with mantras of the Sama Veda, is come
+for thee in consequence of thy Kshatriya possessions. At the conclusion of
+the Rajasuya sacrifice when the performer is installed in the sovereignty
+of the empire, he is rewarded with the fruits of all sacrifices including
+the Agnihotra. It is for this that he is called the conqueror of all. Thou
+art quite able, O strong-armed one, to perform this sacrifice. All of us
+are obedient to thee. Soon will you be able, O great king, to perform the
+Rajasuya sacrifice. Therefore, O great king, let thy resolution be taken
+to perform this sacrifice without further discussion.' Thus spoke unto the
+king all his friends and counsellors separately and jointly. And, O king,
+Yudhishthira that slayer of all enemies, having heard these virtuous, bold,
+agreeable and weighty words of theirs, accepted them mentally. And having
+heard those words of his friends and counsellors, and knowing his own
+strength also, the king, O Bharata, repeatedly thought over the matter.
+After this the intelligent and virtuous Yudhishthira, wise in counsel,
+again consulted with his brothers, with the illustrious Ritwijas about him,
+with his ministers and with Dhaumya and Dwaipayana and others."
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'How may this wish that I entertain of performing the
+excellent sacrifice of Rajasuya that is worthy of an emperor, bear fruit,
+in consequence of my faith and speech alone.'"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"O thou of eyes like lotus-petals, thus asked by the
+king, they replied at that time unto Yudhishthira the just in these
+words,--'Being conversant with the dictates of morality, thou art, O
+king, worthy to perform the grand sacrifice of Rajasuya.' After the
+Ritwijas and the Rishis had told these words unto the king, his ministers
+and brothers highly approved of the speech. The king, however, possessed
+of great wisdom, and with mind under complete control, actuated by the
+desire of doing good unto the world, again resolved the matter in his
+mind, thinking of his own strength and means, the circumstances of time
+and place and his income and expenditure. For he knew that the wise never
+come to grief owing to their always acting after full deliberation.
+Thinking that the sacrifice should not be commenced, pursuant to his own
+resolution only, Yudhishthira, carefully bearing upon his shoulder the
+weight of affairs thought of Krishna that persecutor of all sinners as the
+fittest person to decide the matter, in as much as he knew him to be the
+foremost of all persons, possessed of immeasurable energy, strong-armed,
+without birth but born amongst men from Will alone. Reflecting upon his
+god-like feats the son of Pandu concluded that there was nothing that was
+unknown to him, nothing that he could not achieve, and nothing that he
+could not bear, and Yudhishthira, the son of Pritha, having come to this
+settled resolution soon sent a messenger unto that master of all beings,
+conveying through him blessings and speeches such as one senior in age
+might send to one that is younger. And that messenger riding in a swift
+car arrived amongst the Yadavas and approached Krishna who was then
+residing in Dwaravati. And Achyuta (Krishna) hearing that the son of
+Pritha had become desirous of seeing him, desired to see his cousin. And
+quickly passing over many regions, being drawn by his own swift horses,
+Krishna arrived at Indraprastha, accompanied by Indrasena. And having
+arrived at Indraprastha, Janardana approached Yudhisthira without loss of
+time. And Yudhisthira received Krishna with paternal-affection, and Bhima
+also received him likewise. And Janardana then went with a cheerful heart
+to his father's sister (Kunti). And worshipped then with reverence by the
+twins, he began to converse cheerfully with his friend Arjuna who was
+overjoyed at seeing him. And after he had rested awhile in a pleasant
+apartment and had been fully refreshed, Yudhishthira approached him at his
+leisure and informed him all about the Rajasuya sacrifice.
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'I have wished to perform the Rajasuya sacrifice.
+That sacrifice, however, cannot be performed by one's wishing alone to
+perform it. Thou knowest, O Krishna, even thing about the means by which
+it may be accomplished. He alone can achieve this sacrifice in whom
+everything is possible, who is worshipped everywhere and who is the king
+of kings. My friends and counsellors approaching me have said that I
+should perform that sacrifice. But, O Krishna, in respect of that matter,
+thy words shall be my guide. Of counsellers some from friendship do not
+notice the difficulties; others from motives of self-interest say only
+what is agreeable. Some again regard that which is beneficial to
+themselves as worthy of adoption. Men are seen to counsel thus on matters
+awaiting decision. But thou, O Krishna, art above such motives. Thou hast
+conquered both desire and anger. It behoveth thee to tell me what is most
+beneficial to the world.'
+
+
+SECTION XIV
+
+(Rajasuyarambha Parva)
+
+"Krishna said,--'O great king, thou art a worthy possessor of all the
+qualities essential for the performance of the Rajasuya sacrifice. Thou
+knowest everything, O Bharata. I shall, however, still tell thee
+something. Those persons in the world that now go by the name of
+Kshatriyas are inferior (in everything) to those Kshatriyas that Rama, the
+son of Jamadagnya, exterminated. O lord of the earth, O bull of the
+Bharata race, thou knowest what form of rule these Kshatriyas, guided by
+the instructions traditionally handed down from generation to generation,
+have established amongst their own order, and how far they are competent
+to perform the Rajasuya sacrifice. The numerous royal lines and other
+ordinary Kshatriyas all represent themselves to be the descendants of Aila
+and Ikshwaku. The descendants of Aila, O king, as, indeed, the kings of
+Ikshwaku's race, are, know O bull of the Bharata race, each divided into a
+hundred separate dynasties. The descendants of Yayati and the Bhojas are
+great, both in extent (number) and accomplishments. O king, these last are
+to-day scattered all over the earth. And all the Kshatriyas worship the
+prosperity of those monarchs. At present, however, O monarch, king
+Jarasandha, overcoming that prosperity enjoyed by their whole order, and
+overpowering them by his energy hath set himself over the heads of all
+these kings. And Jarasandha, enjoying the sovereignty over the middle
+portion of the earth (Mathura), resolved to create a disunion amongst
+ourselves. O monarch, the king who is the lord paramount of all kings, and
+in whom alone the dominion of the universe is centered, properly deserves
+to be called an emperor. And, O monarch, king Sisupala endued with great
+energy, hath placed himself under his protection and hath become the
+generalissimo of his forces. And, O great king, the mighty Vaka, the king
+of the Karushas, capable of fighting by putting forth his powers of
+illusion, waiteth, upon Jarasandha, as his disciple. There are two others,
+Hansa and Dimvaka, of great energy and great soul, who have sought the
+shelter of the mighty Jarasandha. There are others also viz., Dantavakra,
+Karusha, Karava, Meghavahana, that wait upon Jarasandha. He also that
+beareth on his head that gem which is known as the most wonderful on
+earth, that king of the Yavanas, who hath chastised Muru and Naraka, whose
+power is unlimited, and who ruleth the west like another Varuna, who is
+called Bhagadatta, and who is the old friend of thy father, hath bowed his
+head before Jarasandha, by speech and specially by act. In his heart,
+however, tied as he is by affection to thee, he regardeth thee as a father
+regardeth his child. O king, that lord of the earth who hath his dominions
+on the west and the south, who is thy maternal uncle and who is called
+Purujit, that brave perpetuator of the Kunti race, that slayer of all
+foes, is the single king that regardeth thee from affection. He whom I did
+not formerly slay, that wicked wretch amongst the Chedis, who represented
+himself in this world as a divine personage and who hath become known also
+as such, and who always beareth, from foolishness, the signs that
+distinguish me that king of Vanga Pundra and the Kiratas, endowed with
+great strength, and who is known on earth by the names of Paundraka and
+Vasudeva hath also espoused the side of Jarasandha. And, O king of kings,
+Bhishmaka, the mighty king of the Bhojas--the friend of Indra--the slayer
+of hostile heroes--who governs a fourth part of the world, who by his
+learning conquered the Pandyas and the Kratha-Kausikas, whose brother the
+brave Akriti was like Rama, the son of Jamdagni, hath become a servitor to
+the king of Magadha. We are his relatives and are, therefore, engaged
+everyday in doing what is agreeable unto him. But although we regard him
+much, still he regardeth us not and is engaged in doing us ill. And, O
+king, without knowing his own strength and the dignity of the race to
+which he belongeth, he hath placed himself under Jarasandha's shelter at
+sight of the latter's blazing fame alone. And, O exalted one, the eighteen
+tribes of the Bhojas, from fear of Jarasandha, have all fled towards the
+west; so also have the Surasenas, the Bhadrakas, the Vodhas, the Salwas,
+the Patachchavas, the Susthalas, the Mukuttas, and the Kulindas, along
+with the Kuntis. And the king of the Salwayana tribe with their brethren
+and followers; and the southern Panchalas and the eastern Kosalas have all
+fled to the country of the Kuntis. So also the Matsyas and the
+Sannyastapadas, overcome with fear, leaving their dominions in the north,
+have fled into the southern country. And so all the Panchalas, alarmed at
+the power of Jarasandha, have left their own kingdom and fled in all
+directions. Some time before, the foolish Kansa, having persecuted the
+Yadavas, married two of the daughters of Jarasandha. They are called Asti
+and Prapti and are the sister of Sahadeva. Strengthened by such an
+alliance, the fool persecuting his relatives gained an ascendency over
+them all. But by this conduct he earned great obloquy. The wretch also
+began to oppress the old kings of the Bhoja tribe, but they, to protect
+themselves from the persecution of their relative, sought our help. Having
+bestowed upon Akrura the handsome daughter of Ahuka, with Sankarshana as
+my second I did a service to my relatives, for both Kansa and Sunaman were
+slain by me assisted by Rama. But after the immediate cause of fear was
+removed (by the death of Kansa), Jarasandha, his father-in-law, took up
+arms. Ourselves consisting of the eighteen younger branches of the Yadavas
+arrived at the conclusion that even if we struck our enemies continually
+with excellent weapons capable of taking the lives of the foes, we should
+still be unable to do anything unto him even in three hundred years. He
+hath two friends that are like unto the immortals, and in point of
+strength the foremost of all men endued with might. They are called Hansa
+and Dimvaka who are both incapable of being slain by weapons. The mighty
+Jarasandha, being united with them, becomes incapable, I think, of being
+vanquished by even the three worlds. O thou foremost of all intelligent
+men, this is not our opinion alone but all other kings also are of the
+same mind. There lived, O monarch, a king of the name of Hansa, who was
+slain by Rama (Valadeva) after a battle of eighteen days. But, O Bharata,
+hearing people say that Hansa had been killed, Dimvaka, O king, thought
+that he could not live without Hansa. He accordingly jumped into the
+waters of the Yamuna and killed himself. Afterwards when Hansa, the
+subjugator of hostile heroes, heard that Dimvaka, had killed himself, he
+went to the Yamuna and jumped into its waters. Then, O bull of the Bharata
+race, king Jarasandha, hearing that both Hansa and Dimvaka had been
+killed, returned to his kingdom with an empty heart. After Jarasandha had
+returned, O slayer of all foes, we were filled with pleasure and continued
+to live at Mathura. Then the widow of Hansa and the daughter of
+Jarasandha, that handsome woman with eyes like lotus-petals, grieved at
+the death of her lord, went unto her father, and repeatedly urged, O
+Monarch, the king of Magadha, saying,--O slayer of all foes, kill thou the
+slayer of my husband.--Then, O great king, remembering the conclusion to
+which we had come of old we became exceedingly cheerless and fled from
+Mathura. Dividing our large wealth into small portions so as to make each
+portion easily portable, we fled from fear of Jarasandha, with our cousins
+and relatives. Reflecting upon everything, we fled towards the west. There
+is a delightful town towards the west called Kusasthali, adorned by the
+mountains of Raivata. In that city, O monarch, we took up our abode. We
+rebuilt its fort and made it so strong that it has become impregnable even
+to the Gods. And from within it even the women might fight the foe, what
+to speak of the Yadava heroes without fear of any kind? O slayer of all
+foes, we are now living in that city. And, O tiger of the Kuru race,
+considering the inaccessibility of that first of mountains and regarding
+themselves as having already crossed the fear of Jarasandha, the
+descendants of Madhu have become exceedingly glad. Thus, O king, though
+possessed of strength and energy, yet from the oppressions of Jarasandha
+we have been obliged to repair to the mountains of Gomanta, measuring
+three Yojanas in length. Within each yojana have been established one and
+twenty posts of armed men. And at intervals of each yojana are hundred
+gates with arches which are defended by valourous heroes engaged in
+guarding them. And innumerable Kshatriyas invincible in war, belonging to
+the eighteen younger branches of the Yadavas, are employed in defending
+these works. In our race, O king, there are full eighteen thousand
+brothers and cousins. Ahuka hath had a hundred sons, each of whom is
+almost like a god (in prowess), Charudeshna with his brother Chakradeva,
+Satyaki, myself, Valadeva the son of Rohini, and my son Samva who is equal
+unto me in battle--these seven, O king are Atirathas. Besides these, there
+are others, O king, whom I shall presently name. They are Kritavarman,
+Anadhrishti, Samika, Samitinjaya, Kanka, Sanku and Kunti. These seven are
+Maharathas. There are also two sons of Andhakabhoja, and the old king
+himself. Endued with great energy these are all heroes, each mighty as the
+thunderbolt. These Maharathas, choosing the middle country, are now living
+amongst the Vrishnis. O thou best of the Bharata line, thou alone art
+worthy of being an emperor. It behoveth thee, O Bharata, to establish thy
+empire over all the Kshatriyas. But this is my judgment, O king, that thou
+wilt not be able to celebrate the Rajasuya sacrifice as long as the mighty
+Jarasandha liveth. By him have been immured in his hillfort numerous
+monarchs, like a lion that hath deposited the slain bodies of mighty
+elephants within a cave of the king of mountains. O slayer of all enemies,
+king Jarasandha, desirous of offering in sacrifice hundred monarchs,
+adored for his fierce ascetic penances the illustrious god of gods, the
+lord of Uma. It is by this means that the kings of the earth have been
+vanquished by Jarasandha. And, O best of monarchs, he hath by that means
+been able to fulfil the vow he had made relative to his sacrifice. By
+defeating the kings with their troops and bringing all of them as captives
+into this city, he had swelled its crowds enormously. We also, O king,
+from fear of Jarasandha, at one time had to leave Mathura and fly to the
+city of Dwaravati. If, O great king, thou desirest to perform this
+sacrifice, strive to release the kings confined by Jarasandha, as also to
+compass his death, O son of the Kuru race, otherwise this undertaking of
+thine can never be completed. O thou foremost of intelligent men if the
+Rajasuya is to be performed by thee, you must do this in this way and not
+otherwise. This, O king, is my view (on the matter). Do, O sinless one, as
+thou thinkest. Under these circumstances, O king, having reflected upon
+everything, taking note of causes, tell us what thou thyself thinkest
+proper."
+
+
+SECTION XV
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'Intelligent as thou art, thou hast said what none
+else is capable of saying. There is none else on earth who is settler of
+all doubts. Behold, there are kings in every province employed in
+benefiting their respective selves. But no one amongst them hath been able
+to achieve the imperial dignity. Indeed, the title emperor is difficult of
+acquisition. He that knoweth the valour and strength of others never
+applaudeth himself. He, indeed, is really worthy of applause (worship) who,
+engaged in encounters with his enemies, beareth himself commendably. O
+thou supporter of the dignity of the Vrishni race, man's desires and
+propensities, like the wide earth itself adorned with many jewels, are
+varied and extensive. As experience can seldom be gained but by travelling
+in regions remote from one's home, so salvation can never be attained
+except by acting according to principles that are very high, compared with
+the ordinary level of our desire and propensities. I regard peace of mind
+as the highest object here, for from that quality may proceed my
+prosperity. In my judgment, if I undertake to celebrate this sacrifice, I
+shall never win the highest reward. O Janardana, endued with energy and
+intelligence, these that have been born in our race think that some one
+amongst them will at one time become the foremost amongst all Kshatriyas.
+But, O exalted one, we also were all frightened by the fear of Jarasandha
+and, O sinless one, by the wickedness of that monarch. O thou invincible
+in battle, the might of thy arm is my refuge. When, therefore, thou taken
+fright at Jarasandha's might, how should I regard myself strong in
+comparison with him? Madhava, O thou of the Vrishni race, I am repeatedly
+depressed by the thought whether Jarasandha is capable or not of being
+slain by thee, by Rama, by Bhimasena, or by Arjuna. But what shall I say,
+O Keshava? Thou art my highest authority on everything.'
+
+"On hearing these words, Bhima well-skilled in speech said,--'That king
+who is without exertion, or who being weak and without resources entereth
+into hostility with one that is strong, perisheth like an ant-hill. It may
+be generally seen, however, that even a king that is weak may vanquish an
+enemy that is strong and obtain the fruition of all his wishes, by
+wakefulness and by the application of policy. In Krishna is policy, in
+myself strength, in Arjuna triumphs. So like the three (sacrificial) fires
+that accomplish a sacrifice, we shall accomplish the death of the king of
+Magadha.'
+
+"Krishna then said,--'One that is immature in understanding seeketh the
+fruition of his desire without an eye to what may happen to him in future.
+It is seen that no one forgiveth for that reason a foe that is of immature
+understanding and inclined to serve his own interests. It hath been heard
+by us that in the krita age, having brought every one under their
+subjection, Yauvanaswin by the abolition of all taxes, Bhagiratha by his
+kind treatment to his subjects, Kartavirya by the energy of his asceticism,
+the lord Bharata by his strength and valour, and Maruta by his prosperity,
+all these five became emperors. But, O Yudhishthira, thou who covetest the
+imperial dignity deserves it, not by one but by all these qualities, viz.,
+victory, protection afforded to thy people, virtue, prosperity, and policy.
+Know, O bull of the Kuru race, that Jarasandha, the son of Vrihadratha, is
+even such (i.e., a candidate for the imperial dignity). A hundred
+dynasties of kings have become unable to oppose Jarasandha. He, therefore,
+may be regarded to be an emperor for his strength. Kings that are wearers
+of jewels worship Jarasandha (with presents of jewels). But, wicked from
+his childhood, he is scarcely satisfied with such worship. Having become
+the foremost among all, he attacketh yet with violence kings with crowns
+on their heads. Nor is there seen any king from whom he taketh not tribute.
+Thus hath he brought under his sway nearly a hundred kings. How can, O son
+of Pritha, any weak monarch approach him with hostile intentions? Confined
+in the temple of Shiva and offered as sacrifice unto him like so many
+animals, do not these monarchs dedicated unto that god feel the most
+poignant misery, O bull of the Bharata race? A Kshatriya that dieth in
+battle is ever regarded with respect. Why shall we not, therefore, meet
+together and oppose Jarsandha in battle? He hath already brought eighty-
+six kings; fourteen only are wanting to complete one hundred. As soon as
+he obtaineth those fourteen, he will begin his cruel act. He that shall be
+to obstruct that act will surely win blazing renown. And he that will
+vanquish Jarasandha will surely become the emperor of all the
+Kshatriyas.'
+
+
+SECTION XVI
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'Desirous of the imperial dignity but acting from
+selfish motives and relying upon courage alone, how, O Krishna, can I
+despatch ye (unto Jarasandha)? Both Bhima and Arjuna, I regard as my eyes,
+and thee, O Janardana as my mind. How shall I live, deprived of my eyes
+and mind. Yama himself cannot vanquish in battle the mighty host of
+Jarasandha that is endued, besides, with terrible valour. What valour can
+ye exhibit against it. This affair that promises to terminate otherwise
+may lead to great mischief. It is my opinion, therefore, that the proposed
+task should not be undertaken. Listen, O Krishna, to what I for one think.
+O Janardana, desisting from this act seemeth to me to be beneficial. My
+heart to-day is afflicted. The Rajasuya appeareth to me difficult of
+accomplishment.'"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Arjuna who had obtained that excellent of bows and
+that couple of inexhaustible quivers, and that car with that banner, as
+also that assembly room, now addressed Yudhishthira and said,--'I have
+obtained, O king, a bow and weapons and arrows and energy and allies and
+dominions and fame and strength. Those are always difficult of acquisition,
+however much they may be desired. Learned men of repute always praise in
+good society nobleness of descent. But nothing is equal to might. Indeed,
+O monarch, there is nothing I like more than prowess. Born in a race noted
+for its valour, one that is without valour is scarcely worthy of regard.
+One, however, possessed of valour, that is born in a race not noted for it,
+is much superior to the former. He, O king, is a Kshatriya in every thing
+who increaseth his fame and possessions by the subjugation of his enemies.
+And he that is possessed of valour, though destitute of all (other) merits,
+will vanquish his foes. One, however, that is destitute of valour, though
+possessed of every (other) merit, can scarcely accomplish anything. Every
+merit exists by the side of valour in an incipient state. Concentration of
+attention, exertion and destiny exist as the three causes of victory. One,
+however, that is possessed of valour doth not yet deserve success if he
+acts carelessly. It is for this that an enemy endued with strength
+sometimes suffers death at the hands of his foes. As meanness overtakes
+the weak, so folly sometimes overtakes the strong. A king, therefore, that
+is desirous of victory, should avoid both these causes of destruction. If,
+for the purpose of our sacrifice, we endeavour to slay Jarasandha and
+rescue the kings kept by him for a cruel purpose, there is no higher act
+which we could employ ourselves in. If, however, we do not undertake the
+task, the world will always think us incompetent. We have certainly the
+competence, O king! Why should you, therefore, regard us as incompetent?
+Those that have become Munis desirous of achieving tranquillity of souls,
+obtain yellow robes with ease. So if we vanquish the foe, the imperial
+dignity will easily be ours. We shall, therefore fight the foe.'
+
+
+SECTION XVII
+
+"Vasudeva said,--'Arjuna hath indicated what the inclination should be of
+one that is born in the Bharata race, especially of one who is the son of
+Kunti. We know not when death will overtake us, in the night or in the day.
+Nor have we ever heard that immortality hath been achieved by desisting
+from fight. This, therefore, is the duty of men, viz., to attack all
+enemies in accordance with the principles laid down in the ordinance. This
+always gives satisfaction to the heart. Aided by good policy, if not
+frustrated by Destiny, an undertaking becomes crowned with success. If
+both parties aided by such means encounter each other, one must obtain
+ascendency over the other, for both cannot win or lose. A battle however,
+if directed by bad policy which again is destitute of the well-known arts,
+ends in defeat or destruction. If, again, both parties are equally
+circumstanced, the result becomes doubtful. Both, however, cannot win.
+When such is the case, why should we not, aided by good policy, directly
+approach the foe; and destroy him, like the current of the river uprooting
+a tree? If, disguising our own faults, we attack the enemy taking
+advantage of his loopholes, why should we not succeed? Indeed, the policy
+of intelligent men, is that one should not fight openly with foes that are
+exceedingly powerful and are at the head of their well-arrayed forces.
+This too is my opinion. If, however, we accomplish our purpose secretly
+entering the abode of our foe and attacking his person, we shall never
+earn obloquy. That bull among men--Jarasandha--alone enjoyeth unfaded
+glory, like unto him who is the self in the heart of every created being.
+But I see his destruction before me. Desirous of protecting our relatives
+we will either slay him in battle or shall ascend to heaven being
+ourselves slain in the end by him.'
+
+"Yudhishthira said--'O Krishna, who is this Jarasandha? What is his energy
+and what is his prowess, that having touched thee he hath not been burnt
+like an insect at the touch of fire?'
+
+"Krishna said,--'Hear, O monarch, who Jarasandha is; what his energy; and
+what is his prowess; and why also he hath been spared by us, even though
+he hath repeatedly offended us. There was a mighty king of the name of
+Vrihadratha, the lord of the Magadhas. Proud in battle, he had three
+Akshauhinis of troops. Handsome and endued with energy, possessed of
+affluence and prowess beyond measure, and always bearing on his person
+marks indicating installation at sacrifices. He was like a second Indra.
+In glory he was like unto Suryya, in forgiveness like unto the Earth, in
+wrath like unto the destroyer Yama and in wealth like unto Vaisravana. And
+O thou foremost of the Bharata race, the whole earth was covered by his
+qualities that descended upon him from a long line of ancestors, like the
+rays emerging from the sun. And, O bull of the Bharata race, endued with
+great energy that monarch married two twin daughters of the king of Kasi,
+both endued with the wealth of beauty. And that bull among men made an
+engagement in secret with his wives that he would love them equally and
+would never show a preference for either. And the lord of the earth in the
+company of his two dearly loved wives, both of whom suited him well,
+passed his days in joy like a mighty elephant in the company of two cow-
+elephants, or like the ocean in his personified form between Ganga and
+Yamuna (also in their personified forms). The monarch's youth however,
+passed away in the enjoyment of his possessions, without any son being
+born unto him to perpetuate his line. The best of monarch failed to obtain
+a son to perpetuate his race, even by means of various auspicious rites,
+and homas, and sacrifices performed with the desire for having an
+offspring. One day the king heard that the high-souled Chanda-kausika, the
+son of Kakshivat of the illustrious Gautama race, having desisted from
+ascetic penances had come in course of his wanderings to his capital and
+had taken his seat under the shade of a mango tree. The king went unto
+that Muni accompanied by his two wives, and worshipping him with jewels
+and valuable presents gratified him highly. That best of Rishis truthful
+in speech and firmly attached to truth, then told the king,--"O king of
+kings, I have been pleased with thee. O thou of excellent vows, solicit
+thou a boon." King Vrihadratha then, with his wives, bending low unto that
+Rishi, spoke these words choked with tears in consequence of his despair
+of obtaining a child.--"O holy one forsaking my kingdom I am about to go
+into the woods to practise ascetic penances. I am very unfortunate for I
+have no son. What shall I do, therefore, with my kingdom or with a boon?"'
+
+"Krishna continued,--'Hearing these words (of the king), the Muni
+controlling his outer senses entered into meditation, sitting in the shade
+of that very mango tree where he was. And there fell upon the lap of the
+seated Muni a mango that was juicy and untouched by the beak of a parrot
+or any other bird. That best of Munis, taking up the fruit and mentally
+pronouncing certain mantras over it, gave it unto the king as the means of
+his obtaining an incomparable offspring. And the great Muni, possessed
+also of extraordinary wisdom, addressing the monarch, said,--"Return, O
+king, thy wish is fulfilled. Desist, O king, from going (into the
+woods)".--Hearing these words of the Muni and worshipping his feet, the
+monarch possessed of great wisdom, returned to his own abode. And
+recollecting his former promise (unto them) the king gave, O bull of the
+Bharata race, unto his two wives that one fruit. His beautiful queens,
+dividing that single fruit into two parts, ate it up. In consequence of
+the certainty of the realisation of the Muni's words and his truthfulness,
+both of them conceived, as an effect of their having eaten that fruit. And
+the king beholding them in that state became filled with great joy. Then,
+O wise monarch, some time after, when the time came, each of the queens
+brought forth a fragmentary body. And each fragment had one eye, one arm,
+one leg, half a stomach, half a face, and half an anus. Beholding the
+fragmentary bodies, both the mothers trembled much. The helpless sisters
+then anxiously consulted each other, and sorrowfully abandoned those
+fragments endued with life. The two midwives (that waited upon the queens)
+then carefully wrapping up the still-born (?) fragments went out of the
+inner apartments (of the palace) by the back door and throwing away the
+bodies, returned in haste. A little while after, O tiger among men, a
+Rakshasa woman of the name of Jara living upon flesh and blood, took up
+the fragments that lay on a crossing. And impelled by force of fate, the
+female cannibal united the fragments for facility of carrying them away.
+And, O bull among men, as soon as the fragments were united they formed a
+sturdy child of one body (endued with life). Then, O king, the female
+cannibal, with eyes expanded in wonder, found herself unable to carry away
+that child having a body as hard and strong as the thunder-bolt. That
+infant then closing his fists red as copper and inserting them into its
+mouth, began to roar terribly as rain-charged clouds. Alarmed at the
+sound, the inmates of the palace, O tiger among men, suddenly came out
+with the king, O slayer of all foes. The helpless and disappointed and sad
+queens also, with breasts full of milk, also came out suddenly to recover
+their child. The female cannibal beholding the queens in that condition
+and the king too so desirous of an offspring, and the child was possessed
+of such strength thought within herself--I live within dominions of the
+king who is so desirous of an offspring. It behoveth not me, therefore, to
+kill the infant child of such an illustrious and virtuous monarch. The
+Rakshasa woman then, holding the child in her arms like the clouds
+enveloping the sun, and assuming a human form, told the king these
+words,--"O Vrihadratha, this is thy child. Given to thee by me, O, take
+it. It hath been born of both thy wives by virtue of the command of the
+great Brahmana. Cast away by the midwives, it hath been protected by me!"'
+
+"Krishna continued,--'O thou foremost of the Bharata race, the handsome
+daughters of the king of Kasi, having obtained the child, soon drenched it
+with their lacteal streams. The king ascertaining everything, was filled
+with joy, and addressing that female cannibal disguised as a human being
+possessing the complexion of gold, asked,--O thou of the complexion of the
+filament of the lotus, who art thou that givest me this child? O
+auspicious one, thou seemest to me as a goddess roaming at thy pleasure!'
+
+
+SECTION XVIII
+
+"Krishna continued,--'Hearing these words of the king, the Rakshasa woman
+answered--"Blessed be thou, O king of kings. Capable of assuming any form
+at will, I am a Rakshasa woman called Jara. I am living, O king, happily
+in thy house, worshipped by all. Every day I wander from house to house of
+men. Indeed, I was created of old by the Self-create and was named
+Grihadevi (the household goddess). Of celestial beauty I was placed (in
+the world) for the destruction of the Danavas. He that with devotion
+painteth on the walls (of his house) a likeness of myself endued with
+youth and in the midst of children, must have prosperity in his abode;
+otherwise a household must sustain decay and destruction. O lord, painted
+on the walls of thy house is a likeness of myself surrounded by numerous
+children. Stationed there I am daily worshipped with scents and flowers,
+with incense and edibles and various objects of enjoyment. Thus worshipped
+in thy house, I daily think of doing thee some good in return. It chanced,
+O virtuous king, that I beheld the fragmentary bodies of thy son. When
+these happened to be united by me, a living child was formed of them. O
+great king, it hath been so owing to thy good fortune alone. I have been
+only the instrument, I am capable of swallowing the mountain of Meru
+itself, what shall I say of the child? I have, however, been gratified
+with thee in consequence of the worship I receive in thy house. It is,
+therefore, O king, that I have bestowed this child on thee."'
+
+"Krishna continued,--'Having spoken these words, O king, Jara disappeared
+there and then. The king having obtained the child then entered the palace.
+And the king then caused all the rites of infancy to be performed on that
+child, and ordered a festival to be observed by his people in honour of
+that Rakshasa woman. And the monarch equal unto Brahma himself then
+bestowed a name on his child. And he said that because the child had been
+united by Jara, he should be called (Jarasandha i.e., united by Jara). And
+the son of the king of Magadha endued with great energy, began to grow up
+in bulk and strength like a fire into which hath been poured libation of
+clarified butter. And increasing day by day like the moon in the bright
+fortnight, the child began to enhance the joy of his parents.'
+
+
+SECTION XIX
+
+"Krishna said,--'some time after this, the great ascetic, the exalted
+Chandakausika, again came into the country of the Magadhas. Filled with
+joy at the advent of the Rishi, king Vrihadratha, accompanied by his
+ministers and priest and wives and son, went out to receive him. And, O
+Bharata, worshipping the Rishi with water to wash his feet and face, and
+with the offerings of Arghya the king then offered his whole kingdom along
+with his son for the acceptance of the Rishi. The adorable Rishi accepting
+that worship offered by the king, addressing the ruler of Magadha, O
+monarch, said with well-pleased heart,--"O king, I knew all this by
+spiritual insight. But hear, O king of kings, what this son of thine will
+be in future, as also what his beauty, excellence, strength, and valour
+will be. Without doubt this son of thine, growing in prosperity and endued
+with prowess, will obtain all these. Like other birds that can never
+imitate the speed of Vinata's son (Garuda), the other monarchs of the
+earth will not be able to equal in energy this thy son, who will be endued
+with great valour. And all those that will stand in his way will certainly
+be destroyed. Like the force of the current that can never make the
+slightest impression upon the rocky breast of a mountain, weapons hurled
+at him even by the celestials will fail to produce the least pain in him.
+He will blaze forth above the heads of all that wear crowns on their brows.
+Like the sun that dims the lustre of all luminous bodies, this son of
+thine will rob all monarchs of their splendour. Even kings that are
+powerful and own large armies and numberless vehicles and animals, upon
+approaching this son of thine, will all perish as insects upon fire. This
+child will seize the growing prosperity of all kings like the ocean
+receiving the rivers swollen with the water of the rainy season. Like the
+huge earth that bears all kinds of produce, supporting things that are
+both good and evil, this child endued with great strength will support all
+the four orders of men. And all the kings of the earth will live in
+obedience to the commands of this child just as every creature endued with
+body live in dependence upon Vayu that is dear as self unto beings. This
+prince of Magadha--the mightiest of all men in the world--will behold with
+his physical eyes the god of gods called Rudra or Hara, the slayer of
+Tripura." O thou slayer of all foes, saying this, the Rishi, thinking of
+his own business, dismissed king Vrihadratha. The lord of the Magadhas
+then, re-entering his capital, and calling together his friends and
+relations, installed Jarasandha, on the throne. King Vrihadratha then came
+to feel a great distaste for worldly pleasures. And after the installation
+of Jarasandha king Vrihadratha followed by his two wives became an inmate
+of an ascetic asylum in the woods. And, O king, after his father and
+mothers had retired into the woods, Jarasandha by his valour brought
+numerous kings under his sway.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"King Vrihadratha, having lived for some time in
+the woods and practised ascetic penances, ascended to heaven at last with
+his wives. King Jarasandha, also, as uttered by Kausika, having received
+those numerous boons ruled his kingdom like a father. Some time after when
+king Kansa was slain by Vasudeva, an enmity arose between him and Krishna.
+Then, O Bharata, the mighty king of Magadha from his city of Girivraja,
+whirling a mace ninety-nine times, hurled it towards Mathura. At that time
+Krishna of wonderful deeds was residing at Mathura. The handsome mace
+hurled by Jarasandha fell near Mathura at a distance of ninety-nine
+yojanas from Gririvraja. The citizens beholding the circumstance well, went
+unto Krishna and informed him of the fall of the mace. The place where the
+mace fell is adjacent to Mathura and is called Gadavasan. Jarasandha had
+two supporters called Hansa and Dimvaka, both of whom were incapable of
+being slain by weapons. Well-conversant with the science of politics and
+morality, in counsel they were the foremost of all intelligent men. I have
+already told thee everything about that mighty pair. They two and
+Jarasandha, I believe, are more than a match for three worlds. O brave
+king, it was for this reason that the powerful Kukkura, Andhaka and
+Vrishni tribes, acting from motives of policy, did not deem it proper to
+fight with him.
+
+
+SECTION XX
+
+(Jarasandhta-badha Parva)
+
+"Krishna said,--'both Hansa and Dimvaka have fallen; Kansa also with all
+his followers has been slain. The time hath, therefore come for the
+destruction of Jarasandha. He is incapable of being vanquished in battle
+even by all the celestials and the Asuras (fighting together). We think,
+however, that he should be vanquished in a personal struggle with bare
+arms. In me is policy, in Bhima is strength and in Arjuna is triumph; and
+therefore, as prelude to performing the Rajasuya, we will certainly
+achieve the destruction of the ruler of Magadha. When we three approach
+that monarch in secret, and he will, without doubt, be engaged in an
+encounter with one of us. From fear of disgrace, from covetousness, and
+from pride of strength he will certainly summon Bhima to the encounter.
+Like death himself that slays a person however swollen with pride, the
+long-armed and mighty Bhimasena will effect the destruction of the king.
+If thou knowest my heart, if thou hast any faith in me, then make over to
+me, as a pledge, Bhima and Arjuna without loss of time!'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Thus addressed by the exalted one, Yudhishthira,
+beholding both Bhima and Arjuna standing with cheerful faces, replied,
+saying--'O Achyuta, O Achyuta, thou slayer of all enemies, say not so.
+Thou art the lord of the Pandavas! We are dependent on thee. What thou
+sayest, O Govinda, is consistent with wise counsels. Thou never leadest
+those upon whom Prosperity hath turned her back. I who stay under thy
+command regard that Jarasandha is already slain, that the monarchs
+confined by him have already been set free, that the Rajasuya hath already
+been accomplished by me. O lord of the universe, O thou best of persons,
+watchfully act thou so that this task may be accomplished. Without ye then
+I dare not live, like a sorrowful man afflicted with disease, and bereft
+of the three attributes of morality, pleasure and wealth. Partha cannot
+live without Sauri (Krishna), nor can Sauri live without Partha. Nor is
+there anything in the world that is unconquerable by these two, viz.,
+Krishna and Arjuna. This handsome Bhima also is the foremost of all
+persons endued with might. Of great renown, what can he not achieve when
+with ye two? Troops, when properly led, always do excellent service. A
+force without a leader hath been called inert by the wise. Forces,
+therefore, should always be led by experienced commanders. Into places
+that are low, the wise always conduct the water. Even fishermen cause the
+water (of tank) to run out through holes. (Experienced leaders always lead
+their forces noting the loopholes and assailable points of the foe). We
+shall, therefore, strive to accomplish our purpose following the
+leadership of Govinda conversant with the science of politics, that
+personage whose fame hath spread all over the world. For the successful
+accomplishment of one's purposes one should ever place Krishna in the van,
+that foremost of personages whose strength consists in wisdom and policy
+and who possesseth a knowledge of both method and means. For the
+accomplishment of one's purpose let, therefore, Arjuna, the son of Pritha,
+follow Krishna the foremost of the Yadavas and let Bhima follow Arjuna.
+Policy and good fortune and might will (then) bring about success in a
+matter requiring valour.'" Vaisampayana said,--"Thus addressed by
+Yudhishthira, the trio Krishna, Arjuna and Bhima, all possessed of great
+energy, set out for Magadha attired in the garb of Snataka Brahmanas of
+resplendent bodies, and blessed by the agreeable speeches of friends and
+relatives. Possessed of superior energy and of bodies already like the Sun,
+the Moon, and the Fire, inflamed with wrath at the sad lot of their
+relative kings, those bodies of theirs became much more blazing. And the
+people, beholding Krishna and Arjuna, both of whom had never before been
+vanquished in battle, with Bhima in the van, all ready to achieve the same
+task, regarded Jarasandha as already slain. For the illustrious pair
+(Krishna and Arjuna) were masters that directed every operation (in the
+universe), as also all acts relating to the morality, wealth, and pleasure
+of every being. Having set out from the country of the Kurus, they passed
+through Kuru-jangala and arrived at the charming lake of lotuses. Passing
+over the hills of Kalakuta, they then went on crossing the Gandaki, the
+Sadanira (Karatoya), and the Sarkaravarta and the other rivers taking
+their rise in the same mountains. They then crossed the delightful Sarayu
+and saw the country of Eastern Kosala. Passing over that country they went
+to Mithila and then crossing the Mala and Charamanwati, the three heroes
+crossed the Ganges and the Sone and went on towards the east. At last
+those heroes of unfaded glory arrived at Magadha in the heart of (the
+country of) Kushamva. Reaching then the hills of Goratha, they saw the
+city of Magadha that was always filled with kine and wealth and water and
+rendered handsome with the innumerable trees standing there.
+
+
+SECTION XXI
+
+"Vasudeva said,--'behold, O Partha, the great capital of Magadha, standing
+in all its beauty. Filled with flocks and herds and its stock of water
+never exhausted, and adorned also with fine mansions standing in excellent
+array, it is free from every kind of calamity. The five large hills of
+Vaihara, Varaha, Vrishava, Rishigiri, and the delightful Chaitya, all of
+high peaks and overgrown with tall trees of cool shade and connected with
+one another, seem to be jointly protecting the city of Girivraja. The
+breasts of the hills are concealed by forests of delightful and fragrant
+Lodhras having the ends of their branches covered with flowers. It was
+here that the illustrious Gautama of rigid vows begat on the Sudra woman
+Ausinari (the daughter of Usinara) Kakshivat and other celebrated sons.
+That the race sprung from Gautama doth yet live under the sway of an
+ordinary human race (of monarchs) is only evidence of Gautama's kindness
+to kings. And, O Arjuna, it was here that in olden times the mighty
+monarchs of Anga, and Vanga and other countries, came to the abode of
+Gautama, and passed their days in joy and happiness. Behold, O Partha,
+those forests of delightful Pippalas and beautiful Lodhras standing near
+the side of Gautama's abode. There dwelt in old days those Nagas, Arvuda
+and Sakravapin, those persecutors of all enemies, as also the Naga
+Swastika and that other excellent Naga called Manu. Manu himself had
+ordered the country of the Magadhas to be never afflicted with drought,
+and Kaushika and Manimat also have favoured the country. Owning such a
+delightful and impregnable city, Jarasandha is ever bent on seeking the
+fruition of his purposes unlike other monarchs. We shall, however, by
+slaying him to-day humble his pride.'"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Thus saying those brothers of abundant energy, viz.,
+he of the Vrishni race and the two Pandavas entered the city of Magadha.
+They then approached towards the impregnable city of Girivraja that was
+full of cheerful and well-fed inhabitants belonging to all the four orders,
+and where festivities were perennial. On arriving then at the gate of the
+city, the brothers (instead of passing through it) began to pierce (with
+their shafts) the heart of the high Chaityaka peak that was worshipped by
+the race of Vrihadratha, as also by the citizens and which delighted the
+hearts of all the Magadhas. There Vrihadratha had slain a cannibal called
+Rishava and having slain the monster made of his hide three drums which he
+placed in his own city. And those drums were such that once beaten their
+sound lasted one full month. And the brothers broke down the Chaityaka
+peak that was delightful to all the Magadhas, at that point where those
+drums covered with celestial flowers used to yield their continuous sound.
+And desirous of slaying Jarasandha they seemed by that act of theirs to
+place their feet upon the head of their foe. And attacking with their
+mighty arms that immovable and huge and high and old and celebrated peak
+always worshipped with perfumes and floral wreaths, those heroes broke it
+down. And with joyful hearts they then entered the city. And it so
+happened that the learned Brahmanas residing within the city saw many evil
+omens which they reported to Jarasandha. And the priest making the king
+mount an elephant whirled lighted brands about him. And king Jarasandha
+also, possessed of great prowess, with a view to warding of those evils,
+entered upon the celebration of a sacrifice, with proper vows and fasts.
+Meanwhile, O Bharata, the brothers unarmed, or rather with their bare arms
+as their only weapons, desirous of fighting with Jarasandha, entered the
+capital in the guise of Brahmanas. They beheld the extraordinary beauty of
+the shops full of various edibles and floral wreaths, and supplied with
+articles of every variety of various qualities that man can desire. Those
+best of men, Krishna, Bhima, and Dhananjaya, beholding in those shops
+their affluence, passed along the public road. And endued with great
+strength they snatched forcibly from the flower-vendors the garlands they
+had exposed for sale. And attired in robes of various colours and decked
+in garlands and ear-rings the heroes entered the abode of Jarasandha
+possessed of great intelligence, like Himalayan lions eyeing cattle-folds.
+And the arms of those warriors, O king, besmeared with sandal paste,
+looked like the trunks of sala trees. The people of Magadha, beholding
+those heroes looking like elephants, with necks broad like those of trees
+and wide chests, began to wonder much. Those bull among men, passing
+through three gates that were crowded with men, proudly and cheerfully
+approached the king. And Jarasandha rising up in haste received them with
+water to wash their feet with, and honey and the other ingredients of the
+Arghya--with gifts of kine, and with other forms of respect. The great
+king addressing them said,--'Ye are welcome'! And, O Janamejaya, both
+Partha and Bhima remained silent at this. And addressing the monarch
+Krishna said,--'O king of kings these two are now in the observance of a
+vow. Therefore they will not speak. Silent they will remain till midnight.
+After that hour they will speak with thee!' The king then quartering his
+guests in the sacrificial apartments retired into his private chambers.
+And when midnight arrived, the monarch arrived at the place where his
+guests attired as Brahmanas were. For, O King, that ever victorious
+monarch observed this vow which was known throughout the Worlds that as
+soon as he should hear of the arrival of Snataka Brahmanas at his place,
+should it be even at midnight, he would immediately, O Bharata, come out
+and grant them an audience. Beholding the strange attire of his guests
+that best of kings wondered much. For all that, however, he waited on them
+respectfully. Those bulls among men, those slayers of all foes, on the
+other hand, O thou best of the Bharata race, beholding king Jarasandha,
+said,--'Let salvation be attained by thee, O king, without difficulty.'
+And, O tiger among kings, having said this unto the monarch, they stood
+looking at each other. And, O king of kings, Jarasandha then said unto
+those sons of Pandu and him of the Yadu race, all disguised as Brahmanas--
+'Take your seats.' And those bulls among men sat themselves down, and like
+the three priests of a great sacrifice blazed forth in their beauty. And
+king Jarasandha, O thou of the Kuru race, firmly devoted to truth,
+censuring the disguised guests, said unto them,--'It is well known to me
+that in the whole world Brahmanas in the observance of Snataka vow never
+deck their persons with garlands and fragrant paste unseasonably. Who are
+ye, therefore, thus decked with flowers, and with hands bearing the marks
+of the bow-string? Attired in coloured robes and decked unseasonably with
+flowers and paste, ye give me to understand that ye are Brahmanas,
+although ye bear Kshatriya energy. Tell me truly who ye are. Truth decks
+even kings. Breaking down the peak of the Chaityaka hill, why have ye, in
+disguise, entered (the city) by an improper gate without fear of the royal
+wrath? The energy of a Brahmana dwelleth in his speech, (not in act). This
+your feat is not suited to the order to which ye profess to belong. Tell
+us therefore, the end ye have in view. Arrived here by such an improper
+way, why accept ye not the worship I offer? What is your motive for coming
+to me?' Thus addressed by the king, the high-souled Krishna, well-skilled
+in speech, thus replied unto the monarch in a calm and grave voice.
+
+"Krishna said,--'O king, know us for Snataka Brahmanas. Brahmanas and
+Kshatriyas and Vaishyas are all, O monarch, competent to observe the vow
+of Snataka. This vow, besides, hath (many) especial and general rules. A
+Kshatriya observing this vow with especial rules always achieve prosperity.
+Therefore, have we decked ourselves with flowers. Kshatriyas again, O king,
+exhibit their energy by their arms and not in speech. It is, therefore, O
+son of Vrihadratha, that the speeches uttered by a Kshatriya are never
+audacious. O monarch, the creator hath planted his own energy in the aim
+of the Kshatriya. If thou wishest to behold it, thou shalt certainly
+behold it today. These are the rules of the ordinance, viz., that an
+enemy's abode should be entered through a wrong gate and a friend's abode
+through the right one. And know, O monarch, that this also is our eternal
+vow that having entered the foe's abode for the accomplishment of our
+purpose, we accept not the worship offered to us!'
+
+
+SECTION XXII
+
+"Jarasandha said,--'I do not recollect if I ever acted injuriously towards
+ye! Even upon a careful mental scrutiny I fail to see the injury I did
+unto ye. When I have never done ye an injury, why, ye Brahmanas do ye
+regard me, who am innocent, as your foe? O, answer me truly, for this,
+indeed, is the rule followed by the honest. The mind is pained at the
+injury to one's pleasure and morality. That Kshatriya who injures an
+innocent man's (sources of) pleasure and morality even if he be otherwise
+a great warrior and well-versed in all rules of morality, obtains, without
+any doubt the fate of sinners (hereafter) and falls off from prosperity.
+The practices of the Kshatriyas are the best of those that are honest in
+the three worlds. Indeed, those that are acquainted with morality applaud
+the Kshatriya practices. Adhering to those practices of my order with
+steady soul, I never injure those that are under me. In bringing this
+charge, therefore, against me, it appears that ye speak erroneously!'
+
+"Krishna said,--'O thou of mighty arms, there is a certain person of the
+head of a (royal) line who upholdeth the dignity of his race. At his
+command have we come against thee. Thou hast brought, O king, many of the
+Kshatriyas of the world as captives (to thy city.) Having perpetrated that
+wicked wrong how dost thou regard thyself as innocent? O best of monarchs,
+how can a king act wrongfully towards other virtuous kings? But thou, O
+king, treating other kings with cruelty, seekest to offer them as
+sacrifice unto the god Rudra! O son of Vrihadratha, this sin committed by
+thee may touch even us, for as we are virtuous in our practices, we are
+capable of protecting virtue. The slaughter of human being as sacrifice
+unto the gods is never seen. Why dost thou, therefore, seek to perform a
+sacrifice unto god Sankara by slaughtering human beings? Thou art
+addressing persons belonging to thy own order as animals (fit for
+sacrifice)! Fool as thou art, who else, O Jarasandha, is capable of
+behaving in this way? One always obtaineth the fruits of whatever acts one
+performeth under whatever circumstances. Therefore, desirous as we are of
+helping all distressed people, we have, for the prosperity of our race,
+come hither to slay thee, the slaughterer of our relatives. Thou thinkest
+that there is no man among the Kshatriyas (equal to thee). This, O king,
+is a great error of judgment on thy part. What Kshatriya is there, O king,
+who endued with greatness of soul and recollecting the dignity of his own
+parentage, would not ascend to eternal heaven that hath not its like
+anywhere, falling in open fight? Know O bull among men, that Kshatriyas
+engage themselves in battle, as persons installed in sacrifices, with
+heaven in view, and vanquish the whole world! Study of the Vedas, great
+fame, ascetic penances, and death in battle, are all acts that lead to
+heaven. The attainment of heaven by the three other acts may be uncertain,
+but death in battle hath that for its certain consequence. Death in battle
+is the sure cause of triumph like Indra's. It is graced by numerous merits.
+It is for this reason that he of a hundred sacrifices (Indra) hath become
+what he is, and by vanquishing the Asuras he ruleth the universe.
+Hostility with whom else than thee is so sure of leading to heaven, proud
+as thou art of the excessive strength of thy vast Magadha host? Don't
+disregard others, O king. Valour dwelleth in every man. O king of men,
+there are many men whose valour may be equal or superior to thine. As long
+as these are not known, so long only art thou noted for thy valour. Thy
+prowess, O king, can be borne by us. It is, therefore, that I say so. O
+king of Magadha, cast off thy superiority and pride in the presence of
+those that are thy equals. Go not, O king, with thy children and ministers
+and army, into the regions of Yama. Damvodhava, Kartavirya, Uttara, and
+Vrihadratha, were kings that met with destruction, along with all their
+forces, for having disregarded their superiors. Desirous of liberating the
+captive monarchs from thee, know that we are certainly not Brahmanas. I am
+Hrishesha otherwise called Sauri, and these two heroes among men are the
+sons of Pandu. O king of Magadha, we challenge thee. Fight standing before
+us. Either set free all the monarchs, or go thou to the abode of Yama.'
+
+"Jarasandha said,--'I never make a captive of a king without first
+vanquishing him. Who hath been kept here that hath not been defeated in
+war? This, O Krishna, it hath been said, is the duty that should be
+followed by the Kshatriyas, viz., to bring others under sway by the
+exhibition of prowess and then to treat them as slaves. Having gathered
+these monarchs with the intention of offering them as sacrifices unto the
+god, how shall I, O Krishna, from fear liberate them to-day, when I
+recollect also the duty I have recited of a Kshatriya? With troops against
+troops arrayed in order of battle, or alone against one, or against two,
+or against three, at the same time or separately, I am ready to fight.'"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Having spoken thus, and desiring to fight with those
+heroes of terrible achievements, king Jarasandha ordered (his son)
+Sahadeva to be installed on the throne. Then, O bull of the Bharata race,
+the king, on the eve of battle, thought of his two generals Kausika and
+Chitrasena. These two, O king, were formerly called by everybody in the
+world of men by the respectful appellations of Hansa and Dimvaka. And, O
+monarch, that tiger among men, the lord Sauri ever devoted to truth, the
+slayer of Madhu, the younger brother of Haladhara, the foremost of all
+persons having their senses under complete control, keeping in view the
+command of Brahma and remembering that the ruler of Magadha was destined
+to be slain in battle by Bhima and not by the descendant of Madhu
+(Yadavas), desired not to slay himself king Jarasandha, that foremost of
+all men endued with strength, that hero possessed of the prowess of a
+tiger, that warrior of terrible valour."
+
+
+SECTION XXIII
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"then that foremost of all speakers, Krishna of
+the Yadava race, addressing king Jarasandha who was resolved upon
+fighting, said,--'O king, with whom amongst us three dost thou desire
+to fight? Who amongst us shall prepare himself for battle (with
+thee)?' Thus addressed, the ruler of Magadha, king Jarasandha of great
+splendour, expressed his desire for fighting with Bhima. The priest
+then, bringing with him the yellow pigment obtained from the cow and
+garlands of flowers and other auspicious articles, as also various
+excellent medicines for restoring lost consciousness and alleviating
+pain, approached Jarasandha, panting for battle. The king Jarasandha,
+on whose behalf propitiatory ceremonies with benedictions were
+performed by a renowned Brahmana, remembering the duty of a Kshatriya
+dressed himself for battle. Taking off his crown and binding his hair
+properly, Jarasandha stood up like an ocean bursting its continents.
+Then the monarch possessed of terrible prowess, addressing Bhima,
+said, 'I will fight with thee. It is better to be vanquished by a
+superior person.' And saying this, Jarasandha, that represser of all
+foes endued, rushed with great energy at Bhimasena like the Asura Vala
+of old who rushed at the chief of the celestials. And the mighty
+Bhimasena, on whose behalf the gods had been invoked by Krishna, that
+cousin of his, having consulted with advanced towards Jarasandha,
+impelled by the desire of fight. Then those tigers among men, those
+heroes of great prowess, with their bare arms as their only weapons,
+cheerfully engaged themselves in the encounter, each desirous of
+vanquishing the other. And seizing each other's arms and twining each
+other's legs, (at times) they slapped their arm-pits, causing the
+enclosure to tremble at the sound. And frequently seizing each other's
+necks with their hands and dragging and pushing it with violence, and
+each pressing every limb of his body against every limb of the other,
+they continued, O exalted one, to slap their arm-pits (at time). And
+sometimes stretching their arms and sometimes drawing them close, and
+now raising them up and now dropping them down, they began to seize
+each other. And striking neck against neck and forehead against
+forehead, they caused fiery sparks to come out like flashes of
+lightning. And grasping each other in various ways by means of their
+arms, and kicking each other with such violence as to affect the
+innermost nerves, they struck at each other's breasts with clenched
+fists. With bare arms as their only weapons roaring like clouds they
+grasped and struck each other like two mad elephants encountering each
+other with their trunks. Incensed at each other's blow, they fought on
+dragging and pushing each other and fiercely looking at each other
+like two wrathful lions. And each striking every limb of the other
+with his own and using his arms also against the other, and catching
+hold of each other's waist, they hurled each other to a distance.
+Accomplished in wrestling, the two heroes clasping each other with
+their arms and each dragging the other unto himself, began to press
+each other with great violence. The heroes then performed those
+grandest of all feats in wrestling called Prishtabhanga, which
+consisted in throwing each other down with face towards the earth and
+maintaining the one knocked down in that position as long as possible.
+And employing his arms, each also performed the feats called
+Sampurna-murchcha and Purna-kumbha. At times they twisted each
+other's arms and other limbs as if these were vegetable fibres that
+were to be twisted into chords. And with clenched fists they struck
+each other at times, pretending to aim at particular limbs while the
+blows descended upon other parts of the body. It was thus that those
+heroes fought with each other. The citizens consisting of thousands,
+of Brahmanas, Kshatriyas and Vaisyas and Sudras, and even women and
+the aged, O tiger among men, came out and gathered there to behold the
+fight. And the crowd became so great that it was one solid mass of
+humanity with no space between body and body. The sound the wrestlers
+made by the slapping of their arms, the seizing of each other's necks
+for bringing each other down, and the grasping of each other's legs
+for dashing each other to the ground, became so loud that it resembled
+the roar of thunder or of falling cliffs. Both of them were foremost
+of mighty men, and both took great delight in such encounter. Desirous
+of vanquishing the other, each was on the alert for taking advantage
+of the slightest lapse of the other. And, O monarch, the mighty Bhima
+and Jarasandha fought terribly on in those lists, driving the crowd at
+times by the motions of their hands like Vritra and Vasava of old.
+Thus two heroes, dragging each other forward and pressing each other
+backward and with sudden jerks throwing each other face downward and
+sideways, mangled each other dreadfully. And at times they struck each
+other with their knee-joints. And addressing each other loudly in
+stinging speeches, they struck each other with clenched fists, the
+blows descending like a mass of stone upon each other. With broad
+shoulders and long arms and both well-skilled in wrestling encounters,
+they struck each other with those long arms of theirs that were like
+maces of iron. That encounter of the heroes commenced on the first
+(lunar) day of the month of Kartic (October) and the illustrious
+heroes fought on without intermission and food, day and night, till
+the thirteenth lunar day. It was on the night of the fourteenth of the
+lunar fortnight that the monarch of Magadha desisted from fatigue. And
+O king, Janardana beholding the monarch tired, addressed Bhima of
+terrible deeds, and as if to stimulate him said,--'O son of Kunti, a
+foe that is fatigued cannot be pressed for if pressed at such a time
+he may even die. Therefore, O son of Kunti, this king should not be
+oppressed by thee. On the other hand, O bull of the Bharata race,
+fight with him with thy arms, putting forth as much strength only as
+thy antagonist hath now left!' Then that slayer of hostile heroes, the
+son of Pandu, thus addressed by Krishna, understood the plight of
+Jarasandha and forthwith resolved upon taking his life. And that
+foremost of all men endued with strength, that prince of the Kuru
+race, desirous of vanquishing the hitherto unvanquished Jarasandha,
+mustered all his strength and courage."
+
+
+SECTION XXIV
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"thus addressed, Bhima firmly resolved upon slaying
+Jarasandha, replied unto Krishna of the Yadu race, saying,--'O tiger of
+the Yadu race, O Krishna, this wretch that yet stayeth before me with
+sufficient strength and bent upon fight, should not be forgiven by me.'
+Hearing these words of Vrikodara (Bhima), that tiger among men, Krishna,
+desiring to encourage that hero to accomplish the death of Jarasandha
+without any delay, answered,--'O Bhima, exhibit today upon Jarasandha the
+strength thou hast luckily derived, the might thou hast obtained from (thy
+father), the god Maruta.' Thus addressed by Krishna, Bhima, that slayer of
+foes, holding up in the air the powerful Jarasandha, began to whirl him on
+high. And, O bull of the Bharata race, having so whirled him in the air
+full hundred times, Bhima pressed his knee against Jarasandha's backbone
+and broke his body in twain. And having killed him thus, the mighty
+Vrikodara uttered a terrible roar. And the roar of the Pandava mingling
+with that death knell of Jarasandha, while he was being broken on Bhima's
+knee, caused a loud uproar that struck fear into the heart of every
+creature. And all the citizens of Magadha became dumb with terror and many
+women were even prematurely delivered. And hearing those roars, the people
+of Magadha thought that either the Himavat was tumbling down or the earth
+itself was being rent asunder. And those oppressors of all foes then,
+leaving the lifeless body of the king at the palace gate where he lay as
+one asleep, went out of the town. And Krishna, causing Jarasandha's car
+furnished with an excellent flagstaff to be made ready and making the
+brothers (Bhima and Arjuna) ride in it, went in and released his
+(imprisoned) relatives. And those kings rescued from terrible fate, rich
+in the possession of jewels, approaching Krishna made presents unto him of
+jewels and gems. And having vanquished his foe, Krishna furnished with
+weapons and unwounded and accompanied by the kings (he had released), came
+out of Girivraja riding in that celestial car (of Jarasandha). And he also
+who could wield the bow with both hands (Arjuna), who was incapable of
+being vanquished by any of the monarchs on earth, who was exceedingly
+handsome in person and well-skilled in the destruction of the foe,
+accompanied by the possessor of great strength (Bhima), came out of that
+fort with Krishna driving the car whereon he rode. And that best of cars,
+incapable of being vanquished by any king, ridden in by those warriors
+Bhima and Arjuna, and driven by Krishna, looked exceedingly handsome.
+Indeed, it was upon that car that Indra and Vishnu had fought of old in
+the battle (with the Asuras) in which Taraka (the wife of Vrihaspati) had
+become the immediate cause of much slaughter. And riding upon that car
+Krishna now came out of the hill-fort. Possessed of the splendour of
+heated gold, and decked with rows of jingling bells and furnished with
+wheels whose clatter was like the roar of clouds, and ever victorious in
+battle, and always slaughtering the foe against whom it was driven, it was
+that very car riding upon which Indra had slain ninety-nine Asuras of old.
+And those bulls among men (the three cousins) having obtained that car
+became exceedingly glad. The people of Magadha, behold the long-armed
+Krishna along with the two brothers, seated in that car (of Jarasandha)
+wondered much. O Bharata, that car, whereunto were yoked celestial horses
+and which possessed the speed of the wind, thus ridden upon by Krishna,
+looked exceedingly beautiful. And upon that best of cars was a flag-staff
+without being visibly attached thereto, and which was the product of
+celestial skill. And the handsome flag-staff, possessed of the splendour
+of the rainbow, could be seen from the distance of a yojana. And Krishna
+while coming out, thought of Garuda. And Garuda, thought of by his master,
+came thither in no time, like a tree of vast proportions standing in a
+village worshipped by all. Garuda of immense weight of body and living
+upon snakes sat upon that excellent car along with the numberless open-
+mouthed and frightfully-roaring creatures on its flag-staff. And thereupon
+that best of cars became still more dazzling with its splendour and was as
+incapable of being looked at by created being as the midday sun surrounded
+by a thousand rays. And, O king, such was that best of flag-staffs of
+celestial make that it never struck against any tree nor could any weapon
+injure it at all even though visible to men's eyes. And Achyuta, that
+tiger among men, riding with the two sons of Pandu upon that celestial car,
+the clatter of whose wheels was like the roar of the clouds, came out of
+Girivraja. The car upon which Krishna rode had been obtained by king Vasu
+from Vasava, and from Vasu by Vrihadratha, and from the latter in due
+course by king Jarasandha. And he of long arms and eyes like lotus-petals
+and possessed of illustrious reputation, coming out of Girivraja, stopped
+(for some time) on a level plain outside the town. And, O king, all the
+citizens then, with the Brahmanas at their head, hastened thither to adore
+him with due religious rites. And the kings who had been released from
+confinement worshipped the slayer of Madhu with reverence, and addressing
+him with eulogies said,--'O thou of long arms, thou hast to-day rescued us,
+sunk in the deep mire of sorrow in the hand of Jarasandha. Such an act of
+virtue by thee, O son of Devaki, assisted by the might of Bhima and Arjuna,
+is most extraordinary. O Vishnu, languishing as we all were in the
+terrible hill-fort of Jarasandha, it was verily from sheer good fortune
+alone that thou hast rescued us, O son of the Yadu race, and achieved
+thereby a remarkable reputation. O tiger among men, we bow down to thee. O,
+command us what we shall do. However difficult of accomplishment, thy
+command being made known to us, O lord (Krishna), it will at once be
+accomplished by us.' Thus addressed by the monarchs, the high-souled
+Hrishikesa gave them every assurance and said,--'Yudhishthira is desirous
+of performing the sacrifice of Rajasuya. That monarch, ever guided by
+virtue, is solicitous of acquiring the imperial dignity. Having known this
+from me assist ye him in his endeavours.' Then, O king, all those monarchs
+with joyous hearts accepted the words of Krishna, saying,--'So be it!' And
+saying this, those lords of earth made presents of jewels unto him of the
+Dasarha race. And Govinda, moved by kindness towards them, took a portion
+of those presents.
+
+"Then the son of Jarasandha, the high-souled Sahadeva, accompanied by his
+relatives and the principal officers of state, and with his priest in
+front came thither. And the prince, bending himself low and making large
+presents of jewels and precious stones, worshipped Vasudeva, that god
+among men. Then that best of men, Krishna, giving every assurance unto the
+prince afflicted with fear, accepted those presents of his of great value.
+And Krishna joyfully installed the prince there and then in the
+sovereignty of Magadha. And the strong-armed and illustrious son of
+Jarasandha, thus installed on the throne by those most exalted of men and
+having obtained the friendship of Krishna and treated with respect and
+kindness by the two sons of Pritha, re-entered the city of his father. And
+that bull amongst men, Krishna, accompanied by the sons of Pritha and
+graced with great good fortune, left the city of Magadha, laden with
+numerous jewels. Accompanied by the two sons of Pandu, Achyuta (Krishna)
+arrived at Indraprastha, and approaching Yudhishthira joyfully addressing
+that monarch said,--'O best of kings, from good fortune, the mighty
+Jarasandha hath been slain by Bhima, and the kings confined (at Girivraja)
+have been all set free. From good fortune also, these two, Bhima and
+Dhananjaya, are well and arrived, O Bharata, at their own city unwounded.'
+Then Yudhishthira worshipped Krishna as he deserved and embraced Bhima and
+Arjuna in joy. And the monarch who had no enemy, having obtained victory
+through the agency of his brothers in consequence of the death of
+Jarasandha, gave himself up to pleasure and merriment with all his
+brothers. And the oldest son of Pandu (Yudhisthira) together with his
+brothers approached the kings who had come to Indraprastha and
+entertaining and worshipping them, each according to his age, dismissed
+them all. Commanded by Yudhishthira those kings with joyful hearts, set
+out for their respective countries without loss of time, riding upon
+excellent vehicles. Thus, O king, did that tiger among men, Janardana of
+great intelligence, caused his foe Jarasandha to be slain through the
+instrumentality of the Pandavas. And, O Bharata, that chastiser of all
+foes having thus caused Jarasandha to be slain, took leave of Yudhishthira
+and Pritha, and Draupadi and Subhadra, and Bhimasena and Arjuna and the
+twins Nakula and Sahadeva. After taking leave of Dhananjaya also, he set
+out for his own city (of Dwarka), riding upon that best of cars of
+celestial make, possessed of the speed of the mind and given unto him by
+Yudhishthira, filling the ten points of the horizon with the deep rattle
+of its wheels. And, O bull of the Bharata race, just as Krishna was on the
+point of setting out, the Pandavas with Yudhishthira at their head walked
+round that tiger among men who was never fatigued with exertion.
+
+"And after the illustrious Krishna, the son of Devaki, had departed (from
+Indraprastha) having acquired that great victory and having also dispelled
+the fears of the kings, that feat, O Bharata, swelled the fame of the
+Pandavas. And, O king, the Pandavas passed their days, continuing to
+gladden the heart of Draupadi. And at that time, whatever was proper and
+consistent with virtue, pleasure, and profit, continued to be properly
+executed by king Yudhishthira in the exercise of his duties of protecting
+his subjects."
+
+
+SECTION XXV
+
+(Digvijaya Parva)
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Arjuna, having obtained that best of bows and that
+couple of inexhaustible quivers and that car and flag-staff, as also that
+assembly-house, addressing Yudhisthira said,--'Bow, weapons, great energy,
+allies, territory, fame, army--those, O king, difficult of acquisition
+however desirable, have all been obtained by me. I think, therefore, that
+what should now be done is for the swelling up of our treasury. I desire,
+O best of monarchs, to make the kings (of the earth) pay tributes to us. I
+desire to set out, in an auspicious moment of a holy day of the moon under
+a favourable constellation for the conquest of the direction that is
+presided over by the Lord of treasures (viz. the North).'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"King Yudhisthira the just, hearing these words
+of Dhananjaya, replied unto him in a grave and collected tone, saying,--'O
+bull of the Bharata race, set thou out, having made holy Brahmanas utter
+benedictions on thee, to plunge thy enemies in sorrow and to fill thy
+friend with joy. Victory, O son of Pritha, will surely be thine, and thou
+wilt surely obtain thy desires fulfilled.'
+
+"Thus addressed, Arjuna, surrounded by a large host, set out in that
+celestial car of wonderful achievements he had obtained from Agni. And
+Bhimasena also, and those bull among men, the twins, dismissed with
+affection by Yudhishthira the just set out, each at the head of a large
+army. And Arjuna, the son of the chastiser of Paka then brought under
+subjugation that direction (the North) which was presided over by the Lord
+of treasures. And Bhimasena overcome by force the East and Sahadeva the
+South, and Nakula, O king, acquainted with all the weapons, conquered the
+West. Thus while his brothers were so employed, the exalted king
+Yudishthira the just stayed within Khandavaprastha in the enjoyment of
+great affluence in the midst of friends and relatives."
+
+"Bhagadatta, hearing this, said,--'O thou who hast Kunto for thy mother,
+as thou art to me, so is Yudhishthira also. I shall do all this. Tell me,
+what else I may do for thee.'"
+
+
+SECTION XXVI
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"thus addressed, Dhananjaya replied unto
+Bhagadatta, saying,--'If thou wilt give thy promise to do this, thou hast
+done all I desire.' And having thus subjugated the king of Pragjyotisha,
+Dhananjaya of long arms, the son of Kunti, then marched towards the north--
+the direction presided over by the lord of treasures. That bull amongst
+men, that son of Kunti, then conquered the mountainous tracts and their
+outskirts, as also the hilly regions. And having conquered all the
+mountains and the kings that reigned there, and bringing them under his
+sway, he exacted tributes from all. And winning the affections of those
+kings and uniting himself with them, he next marched, O king, against
+Vrihanta, the king of Uluka, making this earth tremble with the sound of
+his drums, the clatter of his chariot-wheels, and the roar of the
+elephants in his train. Vrihanta, however, quickly coming out of his city
+followed by his army consisting of four kinds of troops, gave battle to
+Falguna (Arjuna). And the fight that took place between Vrihanta and
+Dhananjaya was terrible. It so happened that Vrihanta was unable to bear
+the prowess of the son of Pandu. Then that invincible king of the
+mountainous region regarding the son of Kunti irresistible, approached him
+with all his wealth. Arjuna snatched out the kingdom from Vrihanta, but
+having made peace with him marched, accompanied by that king, against
+Senavindu whom he soon expelled from his kingdom. After this he subjugated
+Modapura, Vamadeva, Sudaman, Susankula, the Northern Ulukas, and the kings
+of those countries and peoples. Hereafter at the command of Yudhishthira,
+O monarch, Arjuna did not move from the city of Senavindu but sent his
+troops only and brought under his sway those five countries and peoples.
+For Arjuna, having arrived at Devaprastha, the city of Senavindu, took up
+his quarters there with his army consisting of four kinds of forces.
+Thence, surrounded by the kings and the peoples he had subjugated, the
+hero marched against king Viswagaswa--that bull of Puru's race. Having
+vanquished in battle the brave mountaineers, who were all great warriors,
+the son of Pandu, O king, then occupied with the help of his troops, the
+town protected by the Puru king. Having vanquished in battle the Puru king,
+as also the robber tribes of the mountains, the son of Pandu brought
+under his sway the seven tribes called Utsava-sanketa. That bull of the
+Kshatriya race then defeated the brave Kshatriyas of Kashmira and also
+king Lohita along with ten minor chiefs. Then the Trigartas, the Daravas,
+the Kokonadas, and various other Kshatriyas, O king, advanced against the
+son of Pandu. That Prince of the Kuru race then took the delightful town
+of Avisari, and then brought under his sway Rochamana ruling in Uraga.
+Then the son of Indra (Arjuna), putting forth his might, pressed the
+delightful town of Singhapura that was well-protected with various weapons.
+Then Arjuna, that bull amongst the son of Pandu, at the head of all his
+troops, fiercely attacked the regions called Suhma and Sumala. Then the
+son of Indra, endued with great prowess, after pressing them with great
+force, brought the Valhikas always difficult of being vanquished, under
+his sway. Then Falguna, the son of Pandu, taking with him a select force,
+defeated the Daradas along with the Kambojas. Then the exalted son of
+Indra vanquished the robber tribes that dwelt in the north-eastern
+frontier and those also that dwelt in the woods. And, O great king, the
+son of Indra also subjugated the allied tribes of the Lohas, the eastern
+Kambojas, and northern Rishikas. And the battle with the Rishikas was
+fierce in the extreme. Indeed, the fight that took place between them and
+the son of Pritha was equal to that between the gods and the Asuras in
+which Taraka (the wife of Vrihaspati) had become the cause of so much
+slaughter. And defeating, O king, the Rishikas in the field of battle,
+Arjuna took from them as tribute eight horses that were of the colour of
+the parrot's breast, as also other horses of the hues of the peacock, born
+in northern and other climes and endued with high speed. At last having
+conquered all the Himalayas and the Nishkuta mountains, that bull among
+men, arriving at the White mountains, encamped on its breast."
+
+
+SECTION XXVII
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"that heroic and foremost of the Pandavas endued with
+great energy, crossing the White mountains, subjugated the country of the
+Limpurushas ruled by Durmaputra, after a collision involving a great
+slaughter of Kshatriyas, and brought the region under his complete sway.
+Having reduced that country, the son of Indra (Arjuna) with a collected
+mind marched at the head of his troops to the country called Harataka,
+ruled by the Guhakas. Subjugating them by a policy of conciliation, the
+Kuru prince beheld (in that region) that excellent of lakes called Manasa
+and various other lakes and tanks sacred to the Rishis. And the exalted
+prince having arrived at the lake Manasa conquered the regions ruled by
+the Gandharvas that lay around the Harataka territories. Here the
+conqueror took, as tribute from the country, numerous excellent horses
+called Tittiri, Kalmasha, Manduka. At last the son of the slayer of Paka,
+arriving in the country of North Harivarsha desired to conquer it.
+Thereupon certain frontier-guards of huge bodies and endued with great
+strength and energy, coming to him with gallant hearts, said, 'O son of
+Pritha, this country can be never conquered by thee. If thou seekest thy
+good, return hence. He that entereth this region, if human, is sure to
+perish. We have been gratified with thee; O hero, thy conquests have been
+enough. Nor is anything to be seen here, O Arjuna, that may be conquered
+by thee. The Northern Kurus live here. There cannot be war here. Even if
+thou enterest it, thou will not be able to behold anything, for with human
+eyes nothing can be seen here. If, however thou seekest anything else, O
+Bharata tell us, O tiger among men, so that we may do thy bidding.' Thus
+addressed by them, Arjuna smilingly addressing them, said,--'I desire the
+acquisition of the imperial dignity by Yudhishthira the just, of great
+intelligence. If your land is shut against human beings, I shall not enter
+it. Let something be paid unto Yudhishthira by ye as tribute.' Hearing
+these words of Arjuna, they gave him as tribute many cloths and ornaments
+of celestial make, silks of celestial texture and skins of celestial
+origin.
+
+"It was thus that tiger among men subjugated the countries that lay to the
+North, having fought numberless battles with both Kshatriya and robber
+tribes. And having vanquished the chiefs and brought them under his sway
+he exacted from them much wealth, various gems and jewels, the horses of
+the species called Tittiri and Kalmasha, as also those of the colour of
+the parrot's wings and those that were like the peacocks in hue and all
+endued with the speed of the wind. And surrounded, O king, by a large army
+consisting of the four kinds of forces, the hero came back to the
+excellent city of Sakraprastha. And Partha offered the whole of that
+wealth, together with the animals he had brought, unto Yudhishthira the
+just. And commanded by the monarch, the hero retired to a chamber of the
+palace for rest."
+
+
+SECTION XXVIII
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"in the meantime, Bhimasena also endued with great
+energy, having obtained the assent of Yudhishthira the just marched
+towards the eastern direction. And the tiger among the Bharatas, possessed
+of great valour and ever increasing the sorrows of his foes, was
+accompanied by a mighty host with the full complement of elephants and
+horses and cars, well-armed and capable of crushing all hostile kingdoms.
+That tiger among men, the son of Pandu, going first into the great country
+of the Panchalas, began by various means to conciliate that tribe. Then
+that hero, that bull of the Bharata race, within a short time, vanquished
+the Gandakas and the Videhas. That exalted one then subjugated the
+Dasarnas. There in the country of the Dasarnas, the king called Sudharman
+with his bare arms fought a fierce battle with Bhimasena. And Bhimasena,
+beholding that feat of the illustrious king, appointed the mighty
+Sudharman as the first in command of his forces. Then Bhima of terrible
+prowess marched towards the east, causing the earth itself to tremble with
+the tread of the mighty host that followed him. Then that hero who in
+strength was the foremost of all strong men defeated in battle Rochamana,
+the king of Aswamedha, at the head of all his troops. And the son of Kunti,
+having vanquished that monarch by performing feats that excelled in
+fierceness, subjugated the eastern region. Then that prince of the Kuru
+race, endued with great prowess going into the country of Pulinda in the
+south, brought Sukumara and the king Sumitra under his sway. Then, O
+Janamejaya, that bull in the Bharata race, at the command of Yudhishthira
+the just marched against Sisupala of great energy. The king of Chedi,
+hearing of the intentions of the son of Pandu, came out of his city. And
+that chastiser of all foes then received the son of Pritha with respect.
+Then, O king, those bulls of the Chedi and the Kuru lines, thus met
+together, enquired after each other's welfare. Then, O monarch, the king
+of Chedi offered his kingdom unto Bhima and said smilingly,--'O sinless
+one, upon what art thou bent?' And Bhima thereupon represented unto him
+the intentions of king Yudhishthira. And Bhima dwelt there, O king, for
+thirty nights, duly entertained by Sisupala. And after this he set out
+from Chedi with his troops and vehicles."
+
+
+SECTION XXIX
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"that chastiser of all foes then vanquished king
+Srenimat of the country of Kumara, and then Vrihadvala, the king of Kosala.
+Then the foremost of the sons of Pandu, by performing feats excelling in
+fierceness, defeated the virtuous and mighty king Dirghayaghna of Ayodhya.
+And the exalted one then subjugated the country of Gopalakaksha and the
+northern Kosalas and also the king of Mallas. And the mighty one, arriving
+then in the moist region at the foot of the Himalayas soon brought the
+whole country under his sway. And that bull of Bharata race brought under
+control in this way diverse countries. And endued with great energy and in
+strength the foremost of all strong men, the son of Pandu next conquered
+the country of Bhallata, as also the mountain of Suktimanta that was by
+the side of Bhallata. Then Bhima of terrible prowess and long arms,
+vanquishing in battle the unretreating Suvahu the king of Kasi, brought
+him under complete sway. Then that bull among the sons of Pandu overcame
+in battle, by sheer force, the great king Kratha reigning in the region
+lying about Suparsa. Then the hero of great energy vanquished the Matsya
+and the powerful Maladas and the country called Pasubhumi that was without
+fear or oppression of any kind. And the long-armed hero then, coming from
+that land, conquered Madahara, Mahidara, and the Somadheyas, and turned
+his steps towards the north. And the mighty son of Kunti then subjugated,
+by sheer force, the country called Vatsabhumi, and the king of the Bhargas,
+as also the ruler of the Nishadas and Manimat and numerous other kings.
+Then Bhima, with scarcely any degree of exertion and very soon, vanquished
+the southern Mallas and the Bhagauanta mountains. And the hero next
+vanquished, by policy alone, the Sarmakas and the Varmakas. And that tiger
+among men then defeated with comparative ease that lord of earth, Janaka
+the king of the Videhas. And the hero then subjugated strategically the
+Sakas and the barbarians living in that part of the country. And the son
+of Pandu, sending forth expeditions from Videha, conquered the seven kings
+of the Kiratas living about the Indra mountain. The mighty hero then,
+endued with abundant energy, vanquished in battle the Submas and the
+Prasuhmas. And winning them over to his side, the son of Kunti, possessed
+of great strength, marched against Magadha. On his way he subjugated the
+monarchs known by the names of Danda and Dandadhara. And accompanied by
+those monarchs, the son of Pandu marched against Girivraja. After bringing
+the son of Jarasandha under his sway by conciliation and making him pay
+tribute, the hero then accompanied by the monarchs he had vanquished,
+marched against Kansa. And making the earth tremble by means of his troops
+consisting of the four kinds of forces, the foremost of the Pandavas then
+encountered Karna that slayer of foes. And, O Bharata, having subjugated
+Karna and brought him under his sway, the mighty hero then vanquished the
+powerful king of the mountainous regions. And the son of Pandu then slew
+in a fierce encounter, by the strength of his arms, the mighty king who
+dwelt in Madagiri. And the Pandava then, O king, subjugated in battle
+those strong and brave heroes of fierce prowess, viz., the heroic and
+mighty Vasudeva, the king of Pundra and king Mahaujah who reigned in
+Kausika-kachchha, and then attacked the king of Vanga. And having
+vanquished Samudrasena and king Chandrasena and Tamralipta, and also the
+king of the Karvatas and the ruler of the Suhmas, as also the kings that
+dwelt on the sea-shore, that bull among the Bharatas then conquered all
+Mlechchha tribes. The mighty son of the wind-god having thus conquered
+various countries, and exacting tributes from them all advanced towards
+Lohity. And the son of Pandu then made all the Mlechchha kings dwelling in
+the marshy regions on the sea-coast, pay tributes and various kinds of
+wealth, and sandal wood and aloes, and clothes and gems, and pearls and
+blankets and gold and silver and valuable corals. The Mlechchha kings
+showered upon the illustrious son of Kunti a thick downpour of wealth
+consisting of coins and gems counted by hundreds of millions. Then
+returning to Indraprastha, Bhima of terrible prowess offered the whole of
+that wealth unto king Yudhisthira the just."
+
+
+SECTION XXX
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"thus also Sahadeva, dismissed with affection by king
+Yudhisthira the just, marched towards the southern direction accompanied
+by a mighty host. Strong in strength, that mighty prince of the Kuru race,
+vanquishing completely at the outset the Surasenas, brought the king of
+Matsya under his sway. And the hero then, defeating Dantavakra, the mighty
+king of the Adhirajas and making him pay tribute, re-established him on
+his throne. The prince then brought under his sway Sukumara and then king
+Sumitra, and he next vanquished the other Matsyas and then the Patacharas.
+Endued with great intelligence, the Kuru warrior then conquered soon
+enough the country of the Nishadas and also the high hill called Gosringa,
+and that lord of earth called Srenimat. And subjugating next the country
+called Navarashtra, the hero marched against Kuntibhoja, who with great
+willingness accepted the sway of the conquering hero. And marching thence
+to the banks of the Charmanwati, the Kuru warrior met the son of king
+Jamvaka, who had, on account of old hostilities, been defeated before by
+Vasudeva. O Bharata, the son of Jamvaka gave battle to Sahadeva. And
+Sahadeva defeating the prince marched towards the south. The mighty
+warrior then vanquished the Sekas and others, and exacted tributes from
+them and also various kinds of gems and wealth. Allying himself with the
+vanquished tribes the prince then marched towards the countries that lay
+on the banks of the Narmada. And defeating there in battle the two heroic
+kings of Avanti, called Vinda and Anuvinda, supported by a mighty host,
+the mighty son of the twin gods exacted much wealth from them. After this
+the hero marched towards the town of Bhojakata, and there, O king of
+unfading glory, a fierce encounter took place between him and the king of
+that city for two whole days. But the son of Madri, vanquishing the
+invincible Bhismaka, then defeated in battle the king of Kosala and the
+ruler of the territories lying on the banks of the Venwa, as also the
+Kantarakas and the kings of the eastern Kosalas. The hero then defeating
+both the Natakeyas and the Heramvaks in battle, and subjugating the
+country of Marudha, reduced Munjagrama by sheer strength. And the son of
+Pandu then vanquished the mighty monarchs of the Nachinas and the Arvukas
+and the various forest king of that part of the country. Endued with great
+strength the hero then reduced to subjection king Vatadhipa. And defeating
+in battle the Pulindas, the hero then marched southward. And the younger
+brother of Nakula then fought for one whole day with the king of Pandrya.
+The long-armed hero having vanquished that monarch marched further to the
+south. And then he beheld the celebrated caves of Kishkindhya and in that
+region fought for seven days with the monkey-kings Mainda and Dwivida.
+Those illustrious kings however, without being tired in the encounter,
+were gratified with Sahadeva. And joyfully addressing the Kuru prince,
+they said,--'O tiger among the sons of Pandu, go hence, taking with the
+tribute from us all. Let the mission of the king Yudhishthira the just
+possessed of great intelligence, be accomplished without hindrance.' And
+taking jewels and gems from them all, the hero marched towards the city of
+Mahishmati, and there that bull of men did battle with king Nila. The
+battle that took place between king Nila and the mighty Sahadeva the son
+of Pandu, that slayer of hostile heroes, was fierce and terrible. And the
+encounter was an exceedingly bloody one, and the life of the hero himself
+was exposed to great risk, for the god Agni himself assisted king Nila in
+that fight. Then the cars, heroes, elephants, and the soldiers in their
+coats of mail of Sahadeva's army all appeared to be on fire. And beholding
+this the prince of the Kuru race became exceedingly anxious. And, O
+Janamejaya, at sight of this the hero could not resolve upon what he
+should do."
+
+Janamejaya said,--"O regenerate one, why was it that the god Agni become
+hostile in battle unto Sahadeva, who was fighting simply for the
+accomplishment of a sacrifice (and therefore, for the gratification of
+Agni himself)?"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"It is said, O Janamejaya, that the god Agni while
+residing in Mahishmati, earned the reputation of a lover. King Nila had a
+daughter who was exceedingly beautiful. She used always to stay near the
+sacred fire of her father, causing it to blaze up with vigour. And it so
+happened that king Nila's fire, even if fanned, would not blaze up till
+agitated by the gentle breath of that girl's fair lips. And it was said in
+King Nila's palace and in the house of all his subjects that the god Agni
+desired that beautiful girl for his bride. And it so happened that he was
+accepted by the girl herself. One day the deity assuming the form of a
+Brahmana, was happily enjoying the society of the fair one, when he was
+discovered by the king. And the virtuous king thereupon ordered the
+Brahmana to be punished according to law. At this the illustrious deity
+flamed up in wrath. And beholding this, the king wondered much and bent
+his head low on the ground. And after some time the king bowing low
+bestowed the daughter of his upon the god Agni, disguised as a Brahmana.
+And the god Vibhabasu (Agni) accepting that fair-browed daughter of king
+Nila, became gracious unto that monarch. And Agni, the illustrious
+gratifier of all desires also asked the monarch to beg a boon of him. And
+the king begged that his troops might never be struck with panic while
+engaged in battle. And from that time, O king, those monarchs who from
+ignorance of this, desire to subjugate king Nila's city, are consumed by
+Hutasana (Agni). And from that time, O perpetuator of the Kuru race, the
+girls of the city of Mahishmati became rather unacceptable to others (as
+wives). And Agni by his boon granted them sexual liberty, so that the
+women of that town always roam about at will, each unbound to a particular
+husband. And, O bull of the Bharata race, from that time the monarchs (of
+other countries) forsake this city for fear of Agni. And the virtuous
+Sahadeva, beholding his troops afflicted with fear and surrounded by
+flames of fire, himself stood there immovable as a mountain. And purifying
+himself and touching water, the hero (Sahadeva) then addressed Agni, the
+god that sanctifieth everything, in these words,--
+
+"'I bow unto thee, O thou whose track is always marked with smoke. These my
+exertions are all for thee. O thou sanctifier of all, thou art the mouth
+of the gods and thou art Sacrifice personified. Thou art called Pavaka
+because thou sanctifiest everything, and thou art Havyavahana, because
+thou carriest the clarified butter that is poured on thee. The Veda have
+sprung for ministering unto thee, and, therefore, thou art called Jataveda.
+Chief of the gods as thou art, thou art called Chitrabhanu, Anala,
+Vibhavasu, Hutasana, Jvalana, Sikhi, Vaiswanara, Pingesa, Plavanga,
+Bhuritejah. Thou art he from whom Kumara (Kartikeya) had his origin; thou
+art holy; thou art called Rudragarva and Hiranyakrit. Let thee, O Agni,
+grant me energy, let Vayu grant me life, let Earth grant me nourishment
+and strength, and let Water grant me prosperity. O Agni, thou who art the
+first cause of the waters, thou who art of great purity, thou for
+ministering unto whom the Vedas have sprung, thou who art the foremost of
+the deities, thou who art their mouth, O purify me by thy truth. Rishis
+and Brahmanas, Deities and Asuras pour clarified butter every day,
+according to the ordinance into thee during sacrifices. Let the rays of
+truth emanating from thee, while thou exhibitest thyself in those
+sacrifices, purify me. Smoke-bannered as thou art and possessed of flames,
+thou great purifier from all sins born of Vayu and ever present as thou
+art in all creatures, O purify me by the rays of thy truth. Having
+cleansed myself thus cheerfully, O exalted one, do I pray unto thee. O
+Agni, grant me now contentment and prosperity, and knowledge and
+gladness.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued.--"He that will pour clarified butter into Agni
+reciting these mantras, will ever be blessed with prosperity, and having
+his soul under complete control will also be cleansed from all his sins.
+
+"Sahadeva, addressing Agni again, said,--'O carrier of the sacrificial
+libations, it behoveth thee not to obstruct a sacrifice!' Having said this,
+that tiger among men--the son of Madri--spreading some kusa grass on earth
+sat down in expectation of the (approaching) fire and in front of those
+terrified and anxious troops of his. And Agni, too, like the ocean that
+never transgresseth its continents, did not pass over his head. On the
+other hand approaching Sahadeva quietly and addressing that prince of the
+Kuru race, Agni that god of men gave him every assurance and said,--'O
+thou of the Kuru race, rise up from this posture. O rise up, I was only
+trying thee. I know all thy purpose, as also those of the son of Dharma
+(Yudhisthira). But, O best of the Bharata race, as long as there is a
+descendant of king Nila's line, so long should this town be protected by
+me. I will, however O son of Pandu, gratify the desires of thy heart.' And
+at these words of Agni, O bull of the Bharata race, the son of Madri rose
+up with a cheerful heart, and joining his hands and bending his head
+worshipped that god of fire, sanctifier of all beings. And at last, after
+Agni had disappeared, king Nila came there, and at the command of that
+deity, worshipped with due rites Sahadeva, that tiger among men--that
+master of battle. And Sahadeva accepted that worship and made him pay
+tribute. And having brought king Nila under his sway thus, the victorious
+son of Madri then went further towards the south. The long-armed hero then
+brought the king of Tripura of immeasurable energy under his sway. And
+next turning his forces against the Paurava kingdom, he vanquished and
+reduced to subjection the monarch thereof. And the prince, after this,
+with great efforts brought Akriti, the king of Saurashtra and preceptor of
+the Kausikas under his sway. The virtuous prince, while staying in the
+kingdom of Saurashtra sent an ambassador unto king Rukmin of Bhishmaka
+within the territories of Bhojakata, who, rich in possessions and
+intelligence, was the friend of Indra himself. And the monarch along with
+his son, remembering their relationship with Krishna, cheerfully accepted,
+O king, the sway of the son of Pandu. And the master of battle then,
+having exacted jewels and wealth from king Rukmin, marched further to the
+south. And, endued with great energy and great strength, the hero then
+reduced to subjection, Surparaka and Talakata, and the Dandakas also. The
+Kuru warrior then vanquished and brought under his subjection numberless
+kings of the Mlechchha tribe living on the sea coast, and the Nishadas and
+the cannibals and even the Karnapravarnas, and those tribes also called
+the Kalamukhas who were a cross between human beings and Rakshasas, and
+the whole of the Cole mountains, and also Surabhipatna, and the island
+called the Copper island, and the mountain called Ramaka. The high-souled
+warrior, having brought under subjection king Timingila, conquered a wild
+tribe known by the name of the Kerakas who were men with one leg. The son
+of Pandu also conquered the town of Sanjayanti and the country of the
+Pashandas and the Karahatakas by means of his messengers alone, and made
+all of them pay tributes to him. The hero brought under his subjection and
+exacted tributes from the Paundrayas and the Dravidas along with the
+Udrakeralas and the Andhras and the Talavanas, the Kalingas and the
+Ushtrakarnikas, and also the delightful city of Atavi and that of the
+Yavanas. And, O king of kings, that slayer of all foes, the virtuous and
+intelligent son of Madri having arrived at the sea-shore, then despatched
+with great assurance messengers unto the illustrious Vibhishana, the
+grandson of Pulastya. And the monarch willingly accepted the sway of the
+son of Pandu, for that intelligent and exalted king regarded it all as the
+act of Time. And he sent unto the son of Pandu diverse kinds of jewels and
+gems, and sandal and also wood, and many celestial ornaments, and much
+costly apparel, and many valuable pearls. And the intelligent Sahadeva,
+accepting them all, returned to his own kingdom.
+
+"Thus it was, O king, that slayer of all foes, having vanquished by
+conciliation and war numerous kings and having also made them pay tribute,
+came back to his own city. The bull of the Bharata race, having presented
+the whole of that wealth unto king Yudhisthira the just regarded himself,
+O Janamejaya, as crowned with success and continued to live happily."
+
+
+SECTION XXXI
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"I shall now recite to you the deeds and triumphs of
+Nakula, and how that exalted one conquered the direction that had once
+been subjugated by Vasudeva. The intelligent Nakula, surrounded by a large
+host, set out from Khandavaprastha for the west, making this earth tremble
+with the shouts and the leonine roars of the warriors and the deep rattle
+of chariot wheels. And the hero first assailed the mountainous country
+called Rohitaka that was dear unto (the celestial generalissimo) Kartikeya
+and which was delightful and prosperous and full of kine and every kind of
+wealth and produce. And the encounter the son of Pandu had with the
+Mattamyurakas of that country was fierce. And the illustrious Nakula after
+this, subjugated the whole of the desert country and the region known as
+Sairishaka full of plenty, as also that other one called Mahetta. And the
+hero had a fierce encounter with the royal sage Akrosa. And the son of
+Pandu left that part of the country having subjugated the Dasarnas, the
+Sivis, the Trigartas, the Amvashtas, the Malavas, the five tribes of the
+Karnatas, and those twice born classes that were called the Madhyamakeyas
+and Vattadhanas. And making circuitous journey that bull among men then
+conquered the (Mlechcha) tribes called the Utsava-sanketas. And the
+illustrious hero soon brought under subjection the mighty Gramaniya that
+dwelt on the shore of the sea, and the Sudras and the Abhiras that dwelt
+on the banks of the Saraswati, and all those tribes that lived upon
+fisheries, and those also that dwelt on the mountains, and the whole of
+the country called after the five rivers, and the mountains called Amara,
+and the country called Uttarayotisha and the city of Divyakutta and the
+tribe called Dwarapala. And the son of Pandu, by sheer force, reduced to
+subjection the Ramathas, the Harahunas, and various kings of the west. And
+while staying there Nakula sent, O Bharata, messengers unto Vasudeva. And
+Vasudeva with all the Yadavas accepted his sway. And the mighty hero,
+proceeding thence to Sakala, the city of the Madras, made his uncle Salya
+accept from affection the sway of the Pandavas. And, O monarch, the
+illustrious prince deserving the hospitality and entertainment at his
+uncle's hands, was well entertained by his uncle. And skilled in war, the
+prince, taking from Salya a large quantity of jewels and gems, left his
+kingdom. And the son of Pandu then reduced to subjection the fierce
+Mlechchas residing on the sea coast, as also the wild tribes of the
+Palhavas, the Kiratas, the Yavanas, and the Sakas. And having subjugated
+various monarchs, and making all of them pay tributes, Nakula that
+foremost of the Kurus, full of resources, retraced his way towards his own
+city. And, O king, so great was the treasure which Nakula brought that ten
+thousand camels could carry it with difficulty on their backs. And
+arriving at Indraprastha, the heroic and fortunate son of Madri presented
+the whole of that wealth unto Yudhishthira.
+
+"Thus, O king, did Nakula subjugate the countries that lay to the west--
+the direction that is presided over by the god Varuna, and that had once
+before been subjugated by Vasudeva himself!"
+
+
+SECTION XXXII
+
+(Rajasuyika Parva)
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"in consequence of the protection afforded by
+Yudhisthira the just, and of the truth which he ever cherished in his
+behaviour, as also of the check under which he kept all foes, the subjects
+of that virtuous monarch were all engaged in their respective avocations.
+And by reason of the equitable taxation and the virtuous rule of the
+monarch, clouds in his kingdom poured as much rain as the people desired,
+and the cities and the town became highly prosperous. Indeed as a
+consequence of the monarch's acts every affair of the kingdom, especially
+cattle breeding, agriculture and trade prospered highly. O king, during
+those days even robbers and cheats never spoke lies amongst themselves,
+nor they that were the favourites of the monarch. There were no droughts
+and floods and plagues and fires and premature deaths in those days of
+Yudhishthira devoted to virtue. And it was only for doing agreeable
+services, or for worshipping, or for offering tributes that would not
+impoverish, that other kings used to approach Yudhisthira (and not for
+hostility or battle.) The large treasure room of the king became so much
+filled with hoards of wealth virtuously obtained that it could not be
+emptied even in a hundred years. And the son of Kunti, ascertaining the
+state of his treasury and the extent of his possessions, fixed his heart
+upon the celebration of a sacrifice. His friends and officers, each
+separately and all together, approaching him said,--'The time hath come, O
+exalted one, for thy sacrifice. Let arrangements, therefore, be made
+without loss of time.' While they were thus talking, Hari (Krishna), that
+omniscient and ancient one, that soul of the Vedas, that invincible one as
+described by those that have knowledge, that foremost of all lasting
+existences in the universe, that origin of all things, as also that in
+which all things come to be dissolved, that lord of the past, the future,
+and the present Kesava--the slayer of Kesi, and the bulwark of all
+Vrishnis and the dispeller of all fear in times of distress and the smiter
+of all foes, having appointed Vasudeva to the command of the (Yadava) army,
+and bringing with him for the king Yudhishthira just a large mass of
+treasure; entered that excellent city of cities. Khandava, himself
+surrounded by a mighty host and filling the atmosphere with the rattle of
+his chariot-wheels. And Madhava, that tiger among men enhancing that
+limitless mass of wealth the Pandavas had by that inexhaustible ocean of
+gems he had brought, enhanced the sorrows of the enemies of the Pandavas.
+The capital of the Bharata was gladdened by Krishna's presence just as a
+dark region is rendered joyful by the sun or a region of still air by a
+gentle breeze. Approaching him joyfully and receiving him with due respect,
+Yudhishthira enquired of his welfare. And after Krishna had been seated at
+ease, that bull among men, the son of Pandu, with Dhaumya and Dwaipayana
+and the other sacrificial priests and with Bhima and Arjuna and the twins,
+addressed Krishna thus,--
+
+"'O Krishna it is for thee that the whole earth is under my sway. And, O
+thou of the Vrishni race, it is through thy grace that vast wealth had
+been got by me. And, O son of Devaki, O Madhava, I desire to devote that
+wealth according to the ordinance, unto superior Brahmanas and the carrier
+of sacrificial libations. And, O thou of the Dasarha race, it behoveth
+thee, O thou of mighty arms, to grant me permission to celebrate a
+sacrifice along with thee and my younger brothers. Therefore, O Govinda, O
+thou of long arms, install thyself at that sacrifice; for, O thou of the
+Dasarha race, if thou performed the sacrifice, I shall be cleansed of sin.
+Or, O exalted one, grant permission for myself being installed at the
+sacrifice along with these my younger brothers, for permitted by thee, O
+Krishna, I shall be able to enjoy the fruit of an excellent sacrifice.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Unto Yudhisthira after he had said this, Krishna,
+extolling his virtues, said.--'Thou, O tiger among kings, deservest
+imperial dignity. Let, therefore, the great sacrifice be performed by thee.
+And if thou performest that sacrifice and obtainest its fruit we all shall
+regard ourselves as crowned with success. I am always engaged in seeking
+good. Perform thou then the sacrifice thou desirest. Employ me also in
+some office for that purpose, for I should obey all thy commands.
+Yudhisthira replied--O Krishna, my resolve is already crowned with fruit,
+and success also is surely mine, when thou, O Harishikesa, hast arrived
+here agreeably to my wish!'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Commanded by Krishna, the son of Pandu along
+with his brothers set himself upon collecting the materials for the
+performance of the Rajasuya sacrifice. And that chastiser of all foes, the
+son of Pandu, then commanded Sahadeva that foremost of all warriors and
+all ministers also, saying,--'Let persons be appointed to collect without
+loss of time, all those articles which the Brahmanas have directed as
+necessary for the performance of this sacrifice, and all materials and
+auspicious necessaries that Dhaumya may order as required for it, each of
+the kind needed and one after another in due order. Let Indrasena and
+Visoka and Puru with Arjuna for his charioteer be engaged to collect food
+if they are to please me. Let these foremost of the Kurus also gather
+every article of agreeable taste and smell that may delight and attract
+the hearts of the Brahmanas.'
+
+"Simultaneously with these words of king Yudhisthira the just, Sahadeva
+that foremost of warriors, having accomplished everything, represented the
+matter to the king. And Dwaipayana, O king, then appointed as sacrificial
+priests exalted Brahmanas that were like the Vedas themselves in embodied
+forms. The son of Satyavati became himself the Brahma of that sacrifice.
+And that bull of the Dhananjaya race, Susaman, became the chanter of the
+Vedic (Sama) hymns. Yajnavalkya devoted to Brahma became the Adhyaryu, and
+Paila--the son of Vasu and Dhaumya became the Hotris. And O bull of the
+Bharata race, the disciples and the sons of these men, all well-acquainted
+with the Vedas and the branches of the Vedas, became Hotragis. And all of
+them, having uttered benedictions and recited the object of the sacrifice,
+worshipped, according to the ordinance the large sacrificial compound.
+Commanded by the Brahmanas, builders and artificers erected numerous
+edifices there that were spacious and well-perfumed like unto the temples
+of the gods. After these were finished, that best of kings and that bull
+among men Yudhishthira commanded his chief adviser Sahadeva, saying,--
+'Despatch thou, without loss of time, messengers endued with speed to
+invite all to the sacrifice. And Sahadeva, hearing these words of the king,
+despatched messengers telling them,--"Invite ye all the Brahmanas in the
+kingdom and all the owners of land (Kshatriyas) and all the Vaisyas and
+also all the respectable Sudras, and bring them hither!"'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Endued with speed, these messengers then, thus
+commanded, invited everybody according to the orders of the Pandava,
+without losing any time, and brought with them many persons, both friends
+and strangers. Then, O Bharata, the Brahmanas at the proper time installed
+Yudhishthira the son of Kunti at the Rajasuya sacrifice. And after the
+ceremony of installation was over, that foremost of men, the virtuous king
+Yudhishthira the just like the god Dharma himself in human frame, entered
+the sacrificial compound, surrounded by thousands of Brahmanas and his
+brothers and the relatives and friends and counsellors, and by a large
+number of Kshatriya kings who had come from various countries, and by the
+officers of State. Numerous Brahmanas, well-skilled in all branches of
+knowledge and versed in the Vedas and their several branches, began to
+pour in from various countries. Thousands of craftsmen, at the command of
+king Yudhishthira the just, erected for those Brahmanas with their
+attendants separate habitations well-provided with food and clothes and
+the fruits and flowers of every season. And, O king, duly worshipped by
+the monarch the Brahmanas continued to reside there passing their time in
+conversation on diverse topics and beholding the performances of actors
+and dancers. And the clamour of high-souled Brahmanas, cheerfully eating
+and talking, was heard there without intermission. 'Give,' and 'Eat' were
+the words that were heard there incessantly and every day. And, O Bharata,
+king Yudhishthira the just gave unto each of those Brahmanas thousands of
+kine and beds and gold coins and damsels.
+
+"Thus commenced on earth the sacrifice of that unrivalled hero, the
+illustrious son of Pandu, like the sacrifice in heaven of Sakra himself.
+Then that bull among men, king Yudhishthira despatched Nakula the son of
+Pandu unto Hastinapura to bring Bhishma and Drona, Dhritarashtra and
+Vidura and Kripa and those amongst his cousins that were well-disposed
+towards him."
+
+
+SECTION XXXIII
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"the ever-victorious Nakula, the son of Pandu, having
+reached Hastinapura, formally invited Bhishma and Dhritarashtra. The elder
+of the Kuru race with the preceptor at their head, invited with due
+ceremonies, came with joyous hearts to that sacrifice, with Brahmanas
+walking before them. And, O bull of the Bharata race, having heard of king
+Yudhishthira's sacrifice, hundreds of other Kshatriyas acquainted with the
+nature of the sacrifice, with joyous hearts came there from various
+countries, desiring to behold king Yudhishthira the son of Pandu and his
+sacrificial mansion, and brought with them many costly jewels of various
+kinds. And Dhritarashtra and Bhishma and Vidura of high intelligence; and
+all Kaurava brothers with Duryyodhana at their head; and Suvala the king
+of Gandhara and Sakuni endued with great strength; and Achala, and
+Vrishaka, and Karna that foremost of all charioteers; and Salya endued
+with great might and the strong Valhika; and Somadatta, and Bhuri of the
+Kuru race, and Bhurisravas and Sala; and Aswatthama, Kripa, Drona, and
+Jayadratha, the ruler of Sindhu; and Yajnasena with his sons, and Salya
+that lord of earth and that great car warrior king Bhagadatta of
+Pragjyotisha accompanied by all Mlechcha tribes inhabiting the marshy
+regions on the sea-shore; and many mountain kings, and king Vrihadvala;
+and Vasudeva the king of the Paundrayas, and the kings of Vanga and
+Kalinga; and Akastha and Kuntala and the kings of the Malavas and the
+Andhrakas; and the Dravidas and the Singhalas and the king of Kashmira,
+and king Kuntibhoja of great energy and king Gauravahana, and all the
+other heroic kings of Valhika; and Virata with his two sons, and Mavella
+endued with great might; and various kings and princes ruling in various
+countries; and, O Bharata king Sisupala endued with great energy and
+invincible in battle accompanied by his son--all of them came to the
+sacrifice of the son of Pandu. And Rama and Aniruddha and Kanaka and
+Sarana; and Gada, Pradyumna, Shamva, and Charudeshna of great energy; and
+Ulmuka and Nishatha and the brave Angavaha; and innumerable other
+Vrishnis--all mighty car-warriors--came there.
+
+"These and many other kings from the middle country came, O monarch, to
+that great Rajasuya sacrifice of the son of Pandu. And, O king, at the
+command of king Yudhishthira the just, mansions were assigned to all those
+monarchs, that were full of various kinds of edibles and adorned with
+tanks and tall trees. And the son of Dharma worshipped all those
+illustrious monarchs as they deserved. Worshipped by the king they retired
+to mansions that were assigned to them. Those mansions were (white and
+high) like the cliffs of Kailasa, and delightful to behold, and furnished
+with every kind of furniture. They were enclosed on all sides with well-
+built and high white-washed walls; their windows were covered with net-
+works of gold and their interiors were furnished with rows of pearls.
+Their flights of stairs were easy of ascent and the floors were all laid
+over with costly carpets. They were all hung over with garlands of flowers
+and perfumed with excellent aloes. White as snow or the moon, they looked
+extremely handsome even from the distance of a yojana. Their doors and
+entrances were set uniformly and were wide enough to admit a crowd of
+persons. Adorned with various costly articles and built with various
+metals, they looked like peaks of the Himavat. Having rested a while in
+those mansions the monarchs beheld king Yudhishthira the just surrounded
+by numerous Sadasyas (sacrificial priests) and ever performing sacrifices
+distinguished by large gifts to Brahmanas. That sacrificial mansion
+wherein were present the kings and Brahmanas and great Rishis looked, O
+king, as handsome as heaven itself crowded with the gods!"
+
+Thus ends the thirty-fourth section in the Rajasuyika Parva of the Sabha
+Parva.
+
+
+SECTION XXXIV
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"then, O king, Yudhishthira, having approached and
+worshipped his grandfather and his preceptor, addressed Bhishma and Drona
+and Kripa and the son of Drona and Duryyodhana and Vivingsati, and said,--
+'Help me ye all in the matter of this sacrifice. This large treasure that
+is here is yours. Consult ye with one another and guide me as ye desire.'
+
+"The eldest of the sons of Pandu, who had been installed at the sacrifice,
+having said this unto all, appointed every one of them to suitable offices.
+He appointed Dussasana to superintend the department of food and other
+enjoyable articles. Aswatthama was asked to attend on the Brahmanas.
+Sanjaya was appointed to offer return-worship unto the kings. Bhishma and
+Drona, both endued with great intelligence, were appointed to see what was
+done and what was left undone. And the king appointed Kripa to look after
+the diamonds and gold and the pearls and gems, as also after the
+distribution of gifts to Brahmanas. And so other tigers among men were
+appointed to similar offices. Valhika and Dhritarashtra and Somadatta and
+Jayadratha, brought thither by Nakula, went about, enjoying themselves as
+lords of the sacrifice. Vidura otherwise called Kshatta, conversant with
+every rule of morality, became the disburser. Duryyodhana became the
+receiver of the tributes that were brought by the kings. Krishna who was
+himself the centre of all worlds and round whom moved every creature,
+desirous of acquiring excellent fruits, was engaged at his own will in
+washing the feet of the Brahmanas.
+
+"And desirous of beholding that sacrificial mansion, as also king
+Yudhishthira the just, none came there with tribute less than a thousand
+(in number, weight or measure). Everyone honoured the king Yudhishthira
+the just with large presents of jewels. And each of the kings made a
+present of his wealth, flattering himself with the proud belief that the
+jewels he gave would enable the Kuru king Yudhisthira to complete his
+sacrifice. And, O monarch, the sacrificial compound of the illustrious son
+of Kunti looked extremely handsome--with the multitude of palaces built so
+as to last for ever and crowded with guards and warriors. These were so
+high that their tops touched the cars of the gods that came to behold that
+sacrifice; as also with the cars themselves of the celestials, and with
+the dwelling of the Brahmanas and the mansions made there for the kings
+resembling the cars of the celestials and adorned with gems and filled
+with every kind of wealth, and lastly with crowds of the kings that came
+there all endued with beauty and wealth. Yudhisthira, as though vying with
+Varuna himself in wealth, commenced the sacrifice (of Rajasuya)
+distinguished by six fires and large gifts to Brahmanas. The King
+gratified everybody with presents of great value and indeed with every
+kind of object that one could desire. With abundance of rice and of every
+kind of food, as also with a mass of jewels brought as tribute, that vast
+concourse consisted of persons every one of whom was fed to the full. The
+gods also were gratified at the sacrifice by the Ida, clarified butter,
+Homa and libations poured by the great Rishis versed in mantras and
+pronunciation. Like the gods, the Brahmanas also were gratified with the
+sacrificial gifts and food and great wealth. And all the other orders of
+men also were gratified at that sacrifice and filled with joy."
+
+
+SECTION XXXV
+
+(Arghyaharana Parva)
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"On the last day of the sacrifice when the king was to
+be sprinkled over with the sacred water, the great Brahmana Rishis ever
+deserving of respectful treatment, along with the invited kings, entered
+together the inner enclosure of the sacrificial compound. And those
+illustrious Rishis with Narada as their foremost, seated at their ease
+with those royal sages within that enclosure, looked like the gods seated
+in the mansion of Brahma in the company of the celestial Rishis. Endued
+with immeasurable energy those Rishis, having obtained leisure, started
+various topics of conversation. 'This is so,' 'This is not so,' 'This is
+even so.' 'This cannot be otherwise,'--thus did many of them engage in
+discussions with one another. Some amongst the disputants, by well-chosen
+arguments made the weaker position appear the stronger and the stronger
+the weaker. Some disputants endued with great intelligence fell upon the
+position urged by others like hawks darting at meat thrown up into the air,
+while some amongst them versed in the interpretations of religious
+treatises and others of rigid vows, and well-acquainted with every
+commentary and gloss engaged themselves in pleasant converse. And, O king,
+that platform crowded with gods, Brahmanas and great Rishis looked
+extremely handsome like the wide expanse of the firmament studded with
+stars. O monarch, there was then no Sudra near that platform of
+Yudhisthira's mansion, nor anybody that was without vows.
+
+"And Narada, beholding the fortunate Yudhisthira's prosperity that was
+born of that sacrifice, became highly gratified. Beholding that vast
+concourse all the Kshatriyas, the Muni Narada, O king of men, became
+thoughtful. And, O bull amongst men, the Rishi began to recollect the
+words he had heard of old in the mansion of Brahma regarding the
+incarnation on earth of portions of every deity. And knowing, O son of the
+Kuru race, that that was a concourse (of incarnate) gods, Narada thought
+in his mind of Hari with eyes like lotus-petals. He knew that that creator
+himself of every object one, that exalted of all gods--Narayana--who had
+formerly commanded the celestials, saying,--'Be ye born on earth and slay
+one another and come back to heaven'--that slayer of all the enemies of
+the gods, that subjugator of all hostile towns, in order to fulfil his own
+promise, had been born in the Kshatriya order. And Narada knew that the
+exalted and holy Narayana, also called Sambhu the lord of the universe,
+having commanded all the celestials thus, had taken his birth in the race
+of Yadus and that foremost of all perpetuator of races, having sprung from
+the line of the Andhaka-Vrishnis on earth was graced with great good
+fortune and was shining like the moon herself among stars. Narada knew
+that Hari the grinder of foes, whose strength of arm was ever praised by
+all the celestials with Indra among them, was then living in the world in
+human form. Oh, the Self-Create will himself take away (from the earth)
+this vast concourse of Kshatriyas endued with so much strength. Such was
+the vision of Narada the omniscient who knew Hari or Narayana to be that
+Supreme Lord whom everybody worshipped with sacrifice. And Narada, gifted
+with great intelligence and the foremost of all persons and conversant
+with morality, thinking of all this, sat at that sacrifice of the wise
+king Yudhisthira the just with feelings of awe.
+
+"Then Bhishma, O king, addressing king Yudhisthira the just, said, 'O
+Bharata, let Arghya (an article of respect) be offered unto the kings as
+each of them deserveth. Listen, O Yudhishthira, the preceptor, the
+sacrificial priest, the relative, the Snataka, the friend, and the king,
+it hath been said are the six that deserve Arghya. The wise have said that
+when any of these dwell with one for full one year he deserveth to be
+worshipped with Arghya. These kings have been staying with us for some
+time. Therefore, O king, let Arghyas be procured to be offered unto each
+of them. And let an Arghya be presented first of all unto him among those
+present who is the foremost.'
+
+"Hearing these words of Bhishma, Yudhishthira said--'O Grandsire, O thou
+of the Kuru race, whom thou deemest the foremost amongst these and unto
+whom the Arghya should be presented by us, O tell me.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Then, O Bharata, Bhishma the son of Santanu,
+judged it by his intelligence that on earth Krishna was the foremost of
+all. And he said--'As is the sun among all luminous objects, so is the one
+(meaning Krishna) (who shines like the sun) among us all, in consequence
+of his energy, strength and prowess. And this our sacrificial mansion is
+illuminated and gladdened by him as a sunless region by the sun, or a
+region of still air by a gust of breeze. Thus commanded by Bhishma,
+Sahadeva endued with great prowess duly presented the first Arghya of
+excellent ingredients unto Krishna of the Vrishni race. Krishna also
+accepted it according to the forms of the ordinance. But Sisupala could
+not bear to see that worship offered unto Vasudeva. And this mighty king
+of Chedi, reproving in the midst of that assembly both Bhishma and.
+Yudhishthira, censured Vasudeva thereafter.'
+
+
+SECTION XXXVI
+
+"Sisupala said--'O thou of the Kuru race, this one of the Vrishni race
+doth not deserve royal worship as if he were a king, in the midst of all
+these illustrious monarchs. O son of Pandu, this conduct of thine in thus
+willingly worshipping him with eyes like lotus-petals is not worthy of the
+illustrious Pandavas. Ye sons of Pandu. Ye are children. Ye know not what
+morality is, for that is very subtle. Bhishma, this son also of Ganga is
+of little knowledge and hath transgressed the rules of morality (by giving
+ye such counsel). And, O Bhishma, if one like thee, possessed of virtue and
+morality acteth from motives of interest, he is deserving of censure among
+the honest and the wise. How doth he of the Dasarha race, who is not even
+a king, accept worship before these kings and how is it that he hath been
+worshipped by ye? O bull of the Kuru race, if thou regardest Krishna as
+the oldest in age, here is Vasudeva, and how can his son be said so in his
+presence? Or, if thou regardest Vasudeva as your well-wisher and supporter,
+here is Drupada; how then can Madhava deserve the (first) worship? Or, O
+son of Kuru, regardest thou Krishna as preceptor? When Drona is here, how
+hast thou worshipped him of the Vrishni race? Or, O son of Kuru, regardest
+thou Krishna as the Ritwija? When old Dwaipayana is here, how hath Krishna
+been worshipped by thee? Again when old Bhishma, the son of Santanu, that
+foremost of men who is not to die save at his own wish is here, why, O
+king, hath Krishna been worshipped by thee? When the brave Aswatthaman,
+versed in every branch of knowledge is here, why, O king, hath Krishna, O
+thou of the Kuru race, been worshipped by thee? When that King of kings,
+Duryyodhana, that foremost of men, is here, as also Kripa the preceptor of
+the Bharata princes, why hath Krishna been worshipped by thee? How, O son
+of Pandu, passing over Druma, the preceptor of the Kimpurusas, hast thou
+worshipped Krishna? When the invincible Bhishmaka and king Pandya
+possessed of every auspicious mark, and that foremost of kings--Rukmi and
+Ekalavya and Salya, the king of the Madras, are here, how, O son of Pandu,
+hast thou offered the first worship unto Krishna? Here also is Karna ever
+boasting of his strength amongst all kings, and (really) endued with great
+might, the favourite disciple of the Brahmana Jamadagnya, the hero who
+vanquished in battle all monarchs by his own strength alone. How, O
+Bharata, hast thou, passing him over, offered the first worship unto
+Krishna? The slayer of Madhu is neither a sacrificial priest nor a
+preceptor, nor a king. That thou hast notwithstanding all these worshipped
+him, O chief of the Kurus, could only have been from motives of gain. If,
+O Bharata, it was your wish to offer the first worship unto the slayer of
+Madhu, why were these monarchs brought here to be insulted thus? We have
+not paid tributes to the illustrious son of Kunti from fear, from desire
+of gain, or from having been won over by conciliation. On the other hand,
+we have paid him tribute simply because he hath been desirous of the
+imperial dignity from motives of virtue. And yet he it is that thus
+insulteth us. O king, from what else, save motives of insult, could it
+have been that thou hast worshipped Krishna, who possesseth not the
+insignia of royalty, with the Arghya in the midst of the assembled
+monarchs? Indeed, the reputation for virtue that the son of Dharma hath
+acquired, hath been acquired by him without cause, for who would offer
+such undue worship unto one that hath fallen off from virtue. This wretch
+born in the race of the Vrishnis unrighteously slew of old the illustrious
+king Jarasandha. Righteousness hath today been abandoned by Yudhishthira
+and meanness only hath been displayed by him in consequence of his having
+offered the Arghya to Krishna. If the helpless sons of Kunti were
+affrighted and disposed to meanness, thou, O Madhava, ought to have
+enlightened them as to thy claims to the first worship? Why also, O
+Janarddana, didst thou accept the worship of which thou art unworthy,
+although it was offered unto thee by those mean-minded princes? Thou
+thinkest much of the worship unworthily offered unto thee, like a dog that
+lappeth in solitude a quantity of clarified butter that it hath obtained.
+O Janarddana, this is really no insult offered unto the monarchs; on the
+other hand it is thou whom the Kurus have insulted. Indeed, O slayer of
+Madhu, as a wife is to one that is without virile power, as a fine show is
+to one that is blind, so is this royal worship to thee who art no king.
+What Yudhishthira is, hath been seen; what Bhishma is, hath been seen; and
+what this Vasudeva is hath been seen. Indeed, all these have been seen as
+they are!'
+
+"Having spoken these words, Sisupala rose from his excellent seat, and
+accompanied by the kings, went out of that assembly."
+
+
+SECTION XXXVII
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Then the king Yudhishthira hastily ran after Sisupala
+and spoke unto him sweetly and in a conciliating tone the following
+words,--'O lord of earth, what thou hast said is scarcely proper for
+thee. O king, it is highly sinful and needlessly cruel. Insult not
+Bhishma, O king, by saying that he doth not know what virtue is. Behold,
+these many kings, older than thou art, all approve of the worship offered
+unto Krishna. It behoveth thee to bear it patiently like them. O ruler of
+Chedi, Bhishma knoweth Krishna truly. Thou knowest him not so well as this
+one of the Kuru race.'
+
+"Bhishma also, after this, said,--'He that approveth not the worship
+offered unto Krishna, the oldest one in the universe, deserveth neither
+soft words nor conciliation. The chief of warriors of the Kshatriya race
+who having overcome a Kshatriya in battle and brought him under his power,
+setteth him free, becometh the guru (preceptor or master) of the
+vanquished one. I do not behold in this assembly of kings even one ruler
+of men who hath not been vanquished in battle by the energy of this son of
+the Satwata race. This one (meaning Krishna) here, of undefiled glory,
+deserveth to be worshipped not by ourselves alone, but being of mighty
+arms, he deserveth to be worshipped by the three worlds also. Innumerable
+warriors among Kshatriyas have been vanquished in battle by Krishna. The
+whole universe without limit is established in him of the Vrishni race.
+Therefore do we worship Krishna amongst the best and the oldest, and not
+others. It behoveth thee not to say so. Let thy understanding be never so.
+I have, O king, waited upon many persons that are old in knowledge. I have
+heard from all those wise men, while talking; of the numerous much-
+regarded attributes of the accomplished Sauri. I have also heard many
+times all the acts recited by people that Krishna of great intelligence
+hath performed since his birth. And, O king of Chedi, we do not from
+caprice, or keeping in view our relationship or the benefits he may confer
+on us, worship Janarddana who is worshipped by the good on earth and who
+is the source of the happiness of every creature. We have offered unto him
+the first worship because of his fame, his heroism, his success. There is
+none here of even tender years whom we have not taken into consideration.
+Passing over many persons that are foremost for their virtues, we have
+regarded Hari as deserving of the first worship. Amongst the Brahmanas one
+that is superior in knowledge, amongst the Kshatriyas one that is superior
+in strength, amongst the Vaisyas one that is superior in possessions and
+wealth, and amongst the Sudras one that is superior in years, deserveth to
+be worshipped. In the matter of the worship offered unto Govinda, there
+are two reasons, viz., knowledge of the Vedas and their branches, and also
+excess of strength. Who else is there in the world of men save Kesava that
+is so distinguished? Indeed, liberality, cleverness, knowledge of the
+Vedas, bravery, modesty, achievements, excellent intelligence, humility,
+beauty, firmness, contentment and prosperity--all dwell for ever in
+Achyuta. Therefore, ye kings, it behoveth ye to approve of the worship
+that hath been offered unto Krishna who is of great accomplishments, who
+as the preceptor, the father, the guru, is worthy of the Arghya and
+deserving of (everybody's) worship. Hrishikesa is the sacrificial priest,
+the guru, worthy of being solicited to accept one's daughter in marriage,
+the Snataka, the king, the friend: therefore hath Achyuta been worshipped
+by us. Krishna is the origin of the universe and that in which the
+universe is to dissolve. Indeed, this universe of mobile and immobile
+creatures hath sprung into existence from Krishna only. He is the
+unmanifest primal cause (Avyakta Prakriti), the creator, the eternal, and
+beyond the ken of all creatures. Therefore doth he of unfading glory
+deserve highest worship. The intellect, the seat of sensibility, the five
+elements, air, heat, water, ether, earth, and the four species of beings
+(oviparous, viviparous, born of filthy damp and vegetal) are all
+established in Krishna. The sun, the moon, the constellations, the planets,
+all the principal directions, the intermediate directions, are all
+established in Krishna. As the Agnihotra is the foremost among all Vedic
+sacrifices, as the Gayatri is the foremost among metres, as the king is
+the foremost among men, as the ocean is the foremost among all rivers, as
+the moon is the foremost among all constellations, as the sun is the
+foremost among all luminous bodies, as the Meru is the foremost among all
+mountains, as Garuda is the foremost among all birds, so as long as the
+upward, downward, and sideway course of the universe lasteth, Kesava is
+the foremost in all the worlds including the regions of the celestials.
+This Sisupala is a mere boy and hence he knoweth not Krishna, and ever and
+everywhere speaketh of Krishna thus. This ruler of Chedi will never see
+virtue in that light in which one that is desirous of acquiring high merit
+will see it. Who is there among the old and the young or among these
+illustrious lords of earth that doth not regard Krishna as deserving of
+worship or that doth not worship Krishna? If Sisupala regardeth this
+worship as undeserved, it behoveth him to do what is proper in this
+matter.'"
+
+
+SECTION XXXVIII
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"The mighty Bhishma ceased, having said this. Sahadeva
+then answered (Sisupala) in words of grave import, saying,--'If amongst ye
+there be any king that cannot bear to see Kesava of dark hue, the slayer
+of Kesi, the possessor of immeasurable energy, worshipped by me, this my
+foot is placed on the heads of all mighty ones (like him). When I say this,
+let that one give me an adequate reply. And let those kings that possess
+intelligence approve the worship of Krishna who is the preceptor, the
+father, the guru, and deserveth the Arghya and the worship (already
+offered unto him).'
+
+"When Sahadeva thus showed his foot, no one among those intelligent and
+wise and proud and mighty monarchs said anything. And a shower of flowers
+fell on Sahadeva's head, and an incorporeal voice said--'Excellent,
+excellent.' Then Narada clad in black deer-skin, speaking of both the
+future and the past, that dispeller of all doubts, fully acquainted with
+all the worlds, said in the midst of innumerable creatures, these words of
+the clearest import,--'Those men that will not worship the lotus-eyed
+Krishna should be regarded as dead though moving, and should never be
+talked to on any occasion.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Then that god among men, Sahadeva cognisant of
+the distinction between a Brahmana and a Kshatriya, having worshipped
+those that deserved worship, completed that ceremony. But upon Krishna
+having received the first worship, Sunitha (Sisupala) that mower of foes--
+with eyes red as copper from anger, addressed those rulers of men and
+said,--'When I am here to head ye all, what are ye thinking of now?
+Arrayed let us stand in battle against the assembled Vrishnis and the
+Pandavas?' And the bull of the Chedis, having thus stirred the kings up,
+began to consult with them how to obstruct the completion of the
+sacrifice. All the invited monarchs who had come to the sacrifice, with
+Sunitha as their chief, looked angry and their faces became pale. They all
+said, 'We must so act that the final sacrificial rite performed by
+Yudhishthira and the worship of Krishna may not be regarded as having been
+acquiesced in by us.' And impelled by a belief in their power and great
+assurance, the kings, deprived of reason through anger, began to say this.
+And being moved by self-confidence and smarting under the insult offered
+unto them, the monarchs repeatedly exclaimed thus. Though their friends
+sought to appease them, their faces glowed with anger like those of
+roaring lions driven away from their preys. Krishna then understood that
+the vast sea of monarchs with its countless waves of troops was preparing
+for a terrific rush."
+
+
+SECTION XXXIX
+
+(Sisupala-badha Parva)
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Beholding that vast assembly of kings agitated with
+wrath, even like the terrific sea agitated by the winds that blow at the
+time of the universal dissolution, Yudhishthira addressing the aged
+Bhishma, that chief of intelligent men and the grandsire of the Kurus,
+even like Puruhita (Indra) that slayer of foes, of abundant energy
+addressing Vrihaspati, said,--'This vast ocean of kings, hath been
+agitated by wrath. Tell me, O Grandsire, what I should do in view of this.
+O Grandsire, now what I should do that my sacrifice may not be obstructed
+and my subjects may not be injured.'
+
+"When king Yudhishthira the just, conversant with morality, said this,
+Bhishma the grandsire of the Kurus, spoke these words in reply,--'Fear not,
+O tiger of the Kurus. Can the dog slay the lion? I have before this found
+out a way that is both beneficial and comfortable to practise. As dogs in
+a pack approaching the lion that is asleep bark together, so are all these
+lords of earth. Indeed, O child, like dogs before the lion, these
+(monarchs) are barking in rage before the sleeping lion of the Vrishni
+race. Achyuta now is like a lion that is asleep. Until he waketh up, this
+chief of the Chedis--this lion among men--maketh these monarchs look like
+lions. O child, O thou foremost of all monarchs, this Sisupala possessed
+of little intelligence is desirous of taking along with him all these
+kings, through the agency of him who is the soul of the universe, to the
+regions of Yama. Assuredly, O Bharata Vishnu hath been desirous of taking
+back unto himself the energy that existeth in this Sisupala. O Chief of
+all intelligent men, O son of Kunti, the intelligence of this wicked-
+minded king of the Chedis, as also of all these monarchs, hath become
+perverse. Indeed, the intelligence of all those whom this tiger among men
+desireth to take unto himself, becometh perverse even like that of this
+king of the Chedis. O Yudhishthira, Madhava is the progenitor as also the
+destroyer of all created beings of the four species, (oviparous, etc.,)
+existing in the three worlds.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued--"Then the ruler of Chedis, having heard these
+words of Bhishma, addressed the latter, O Bharata, in words that were
+stern and rough.
+
+
+SECTION XL
+
+"Sisupala said,--'Old and infamous wretch of thy race, art thou not
+ashamed of affrighting all these monarchs with these numerous false
+terrors! Thou art the foremost of the Kurus, and living as thou dost in
+the third state (celibacy) it is but fit for thee that thou shouldst give
+such counsel that is so wide of morality. Like a boat tied to another boat
+or the blind following the blind, are the Kurus who have thee for their
+guide. Thou hast once more simply pained our hearts by reciting
+particularly the deeds of this one (Krishna), such as the slaying of
+Putana and others. Arrogant and ignorant as thou art, and desirous of
+praising Kesava, why doth not this tongue of thine split up into a hundred
+parts? How dost thou, superior as thou art in knowledge, desire to praise
+that cow-boy in respect of whom even men of little intelligence may
+address invectives? If Krishna in his infancy slew a vulture, what is
+there remarkable in that, or in that other feat of his, O Bhishma, viz.,
+in his slaughter of Aswa and Vrishava, both of whom were unskilled in
+battle? If this one threw drown by a kick an inanimate piece of wood, viz.,
+a car, what is there, O Bhishma, wonderful in that? O Bhishma, what is
+there remarkable in this one's having supported for a week the Govardhan
+mount which is like an anthill? "While sporting on the top of a mountain
+this one ate a large quantity of food,"--hearing these words of thine many
+have wondered exceedingly. But, O thou who art conversant with the rules
+of morality, is not this still more wrongful that that great person, viz.,
+Kansa, whose food this one ate, hath been slain by him? Thou infamous one
+of the Kuru race, thou art ignorant of the rules of morality. Hast thou
+not ever heard, from wise men speaking unto thee, what I would now tell
+thee? The virtuous and the wise always instruct the honest that weapons
+must never be made to descend upon women and kine and Brahmanas and upon
+those whose food hath been taken, as also upon those whose shelter hath
+been enjoyed. It seemeth, O Bhishma, that all these teachings hath been
+thrown away by thee. O infamous one of the Kuru race, desiring to praise
+Kesava, thou describest him before me as great and superior in knowledge
+and in age, as if I knew nothing. If at thy word, O Bhishma, one that hath
+slain women (meaning Putana) and kine be worshipped, then what is to
+become of this great lesson? How can one who is such, deserve praise, O
+Bhishma? "This one is the foremost of all wise men,"--"This one is the
+lord of the universe"--hearing these words of thine, Janarddana believeth
+that these are all true. But surely, they are all false. The verses that a
+chanter sings, even if he sings them often, produce no impression on him.
+And every creature acts according to his disposition, even like the bird
+Bhulinga (that picks the particles of flesh from between the lion's teeth,
+though preaching against rashness). Assuredly thy disposition is very mean.
+There is not the least doubt about it. And so also, it seemeth, that the
+sons of Pandu who regard Krishna as deserving of worship and who have thee
+for their guide, are possessed of a sinful disposition. Possessing a
+knowledge of virtue, thou hast fallen off from the path of the wise.
+Therefore thou art sinful. Who, O Bhishma, knowing himself to be virtuous
+and superior in knowledge, will so act as thou hast done from motives of
+virtue? If thou knowest the ways of the morality, if thy mind is guided by
+wisdom, blessed be thou. Why then, O Bhishma, was that virtuous girl Amva,
+who had set her heart upon another, carried off by thee, so proud of
+wisdom and virtue? Thy brother Vichitravirya conformably to the ways of
+the honest and the virtuous, knowing that girl's condition, did not marry
+her though brought by thee. Boasting as thou dost of virtue, in thy very
+sight, upon the widow of thy brother were sons begotten by another
+according to the ways of the honest. Where is thy virtue, O Bhishma? This
+thy celibacy, which thou leadest either from ignorance or from impotence,
+is fruitless. O thou who art conversant with virtue, I do not behold thy
+well-being. Thou who expoundest morality in this way dost not seem to have
+ever waited upon the old. Worship, gift, study,--sacrifices distinguished
+by large gifts to the Brahmanas,--these all equal not in merit even one-
+sixteenth part of that which is obtainable by the possession of a son. The
+merit, O Bhishma, that is acquired by numberless vows and fasts assuredly
+becomes fruitless in the case of one that is childless. Thou art childless
+and old and the expounder of false morality. Like the swan in the story,
+thou shalt now die at the hands of thy relatives. Other men possessed of
+knowledge have said this of old. I will presently recite it fully in thy
+hearing.
+
+"'There lived of yore an old swan on the sea-coast. Ever speaking of
+morality, but otherwise in his conduct, he used to instruct the feathery
+tribe. "Practise ye virtue and forego sin,"--these were the words that
+other truthful birds, O Bhishma, constantly heard him utter. And the other
+oviparous creatures ranging the sea, it hath been heard by us, O Bhishma
+use for virtue's sake to bring him food. And, O Bhishma, all those other
+birds, keeping their eggs, with him, ranged and dived in the waters of the
+sea. And the sinful old swan, attentive to his own pursuits, used to eat
+up the eggs of all those birds that foolishly trusted in him. After a
+while when the eggs were decreasing in number, a bird of great wisdom had
+his suspicions roused and he even witnessed (the affair) one day. And
+having witnessed the sinful act of the old swan, that bird in great sorrow
+spoke unto all the other birds. Then, O thou best of the Kurus, all those
+birds witnessing with their own eyes the act of the old swan, approached
+that wretch of false conduct and slew him.
+
+"'Thy behaviour, O Bhishma, is even like that of the old swan. These lords
+of earth might slay thee in anger like those creatures of the feathery
+tribe slaying the old swan. Persons conversant with the Puranas recite a
+proverb, O Bhishma, as regards this occurrence, I shall, O Bharata, repeat
+it to thee fully. It is even this: O thou that supportest thyself on thy
+wings, though thy heart is affected (by the passions), thou preachest yet
+(of virtue); but this thy sinful act of eating up the eggs transgresseth
+thy speech!'
+
+
+SECTION XLI
+
+"Sisupala said,--'That mighty king Jarasandha who desired not to fight
+with Krishna, saying "He is a slave," was worthy of my greatest esteem.
+Who will regard as praiseworthy the act which was done by Kesava, as also
+by Bhima and Arjuna, in the matter of Jarasandha's death? Entering by an
+improper gate, disguised as a Brahmana, thus Krishna observed the strength
+of king Jarasandha. And when that monarch offered at first unto this
+wretch water to wash his feet, it was then that he denied his Brahmanahood
+from seeming motives of virtue. And when Jarasandha, O thou of the Kuru
+race, asked Krishna and Bhima and Dhananjaya to eat, it was this Krishna
+that refused that monarch's request. If this one is the lord of the
+universe, as this fool representeth him to be, why doth he not regard
+himself as a Brahmana? This, however, surpriseth me greatly that though
+thou leadest the Pandavas away from the path of the wise, they yet regard
+thee as honest. Or, perhaps, this is scarcely a matter of surprise in
+respect of those that have thee, O Bharata, womanish in disposition and
+bent down with age, for their counsellor in everything.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Hearing these words of Sisupala, harsh both in
+import and sound, that foremost of mighty men, Bhimasena endued with
+energy became angry. And his eyes, naturally large and expanding and like
+unto lotus leaves became still more extended and red as copper under the
+influence of that rage. And the assembled monarchs beheld on his forehead
+three lines of wrinkles like the Ganga of treble currents on the treble-
+peaked mountain. When Bhimasena began to grind his teeth in rage, the
+monarchs beheld his face resembling that of Death himself, at the end of
+the Yuga, prepared to swallow every creature. And as the hero endued with
+great energy of mind was about to leap up impetuously, the mighty-armed
+Bhishma caught him like Mahadeva seizing Mahasena (the celestial
+generalissimo). And, O Bharata, Bhima's wrath was soon appeased by Bhishma,
+the grand-sire of the Kurus, with various kinds of counsel. And Bhima,
+that chastiser of foes, could not disobey Bhishma's words, like the ocean
+that never transgresseth (even when swollen with the waters of the rainy
+season) its continents. But, O king, even though Bhima was angry, the
+brave Sisupala depending on his own manhood, did not tremble in fear. And
+though Bhima was leaping up impetuously every moment, Sisupala bestowed
+not a single thought on him, like a lion that recks not a little animal in
+rage. The powerful king of Chedi, beholding Bhima of terrible prowess in
+such rage, laughingly said,--'Release him, O Bhishma! Let all the monarchs
+behold him scorched by my prowess like an insect in fire.' Hearing these
+words of the ruler of the Chedis, Bhishma, that foremost of the Kurus and
+chief of all intelligent men, spoke unto Bhima these words.
+
+
+SECTION XLII
+
+"Bhishma said,--'This Sisupala was born in the line of the king of Chedi
+with three eyes and four hands. As soon as he was born, he screamed and
+brayed like an ass. On that account, his father and mother along with
+their relatives, were struck with fear. And beholding these extraordinary
+omens, his parents resolved to abandon him. But an incorporeal voice,
+about this time, said unto the king and his wife with their ministers and
+priest, all with hearts paralysed by anxiety, those words,--"This thy son,
+O king, that hath been born will become both fortunate and superior in
+strength. Therefore thou hast no fear from him. Indeed cherish the child
+without anxiety. He will not die (in childhood). His time is not yet come.
+He that will slay him with weapons hath also been born." Hearing these
+words, the mother, rendered anxious by affection for her son, addressed
+the invisible Being and said,--"I bow with joined hands unto him that hath
+uttered these words respecting my son; whether he be an exalted divinity
+or any other being, let him tell me another word. I desire to hear who
+will be the slayer of this my son." The invisible Being then said,--"He
+upon whose lap this child being placed the superfluous arms of his will
+fall down upon the ground like a pair of five-headed snakes, and at the
+sight of whom his third eye on the forehead will disappear, will be his
+slayer?" Hearing of the child's three eyes and four arms as also of the
+words of the invisible Being, all the kings of the earth went to Chedi to
+behold him. The king of Chedi worshipping, as each deserved, the monarchs
+that came, gave his child upon their laps one after another. And though
+the child was placed upon the laps of a thousand kings, one after another,
+yet that which the incorporeal voice had said came not to pass. And having
+heard of all this at Dwaravati, the mighty Yadava heroes Sankarshana and
+Janarddana also went to the capital of the Chedis, to see their father's
+sister--that daughter of the Yadavas (the queen of Chedi). And saluting
+everybody according to his rank and the king and queen also, and enquiring
+after every body's welfare, both Rama and Kesava took their seats. And
+after those heroes had been worshipped, the queen with great pleasure
+herself placed the child on the lap of Damodara. As soon as the child was
+placed on his lap, those superfluous arms of his fell down and the eye on
+his forehead also disappeared. And beholding this, the queen in alarm and
+anxiety begged of Krishna a boon. And she said,--"O mighty-armed Krishna,
+I am afflicted with fear; grant me a boon. Thou art the assurer of all
+afflicted ones and that the dispeller of everybody's fear." Thus addressed
+by her, Krishna, that son of the Yadu race, said--"Fear not, O respected
+one. Thou art acquainted with morality. Thou needest have no fear from me.
+What boon shall I give thee? What shall I do, O aunt? Whether able or not,
+I shall do thy bidding."--Thus spoken to by Krishna, the queen said, "O
+thou of great strength, thou wilt have to pardon the offences of Sisupala
+for my sake. O tiger of the Yadu race. Know O lord, even this is the boon
+that I ask." Krishna then said, "O aunt, even when he will deserve to be
+slain, I will pardon an hundred offences of his. Grieve thou not."'
+
+"Bhishma continued,--'Even thus, O Bhima, is this wretch of a king--
+Sisupala of wicked heart, who, proud of the boon granted by Govinda,
+summons thee to battle!'
+
+
+SECTION XLIII
+
+"Bhishma said,--'The will under which the ruler of Chedi summoneth thee to
+fight though thou art of strength that knoweth no deterioration, is
+scarcely his own intention. Assuredly, this is the purpose of Krishna
+himself, the lord of the universe. O Bhima, what king is there on earth
+that would dare abuse me thus, as this wretch of his race, already
+possessed by Death, hath done to-day? This mighty-armed one is, without
+doubt, a portion of Hari's energy. And surely, the Lord desireth to take
+back unto himself that energy of his own.' In consequence of this, O tiger
+of the Kuru race, this tiger-like king of Chedi, so wicked of heart,
+roareth in such a way caring little for us all."
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Hearing these words of Bhishma, the king of
+Chedi could bear no more. He then replied in rage unto Bhishma in these
+words.--
+
+"'Let our foes, O Bhishma, be endued with that prowess which this Kesava
+hath, whom thou like a professional chanter of hymns praisest, rising
+repeatedly from thy seat. If thy mind, O Bhishma, delighteth so in
+praising others, then praise thou these kings, leaving off Krishna. Praise
+thou this excellent of kings, Darada, the ruler of Valhika, who rent this
+earth as soon as he was born. Praise thou, O Bhishma, this Karna, the
+ruler of the territories of Anga and Vanga, who is equal in strength unto
+him of a thousand eyes, who draweth a large bow, who endued with mighty
+arms owneth celestial ear-rings of heavenly make with which he was born
+and this coat of mail possessing the splendour of the rising sun, who
+vanquished in a wrestling encounter the invincible Jarasandha equal unto
+Vasava himself, and who tore and mangled that monarch. O Bhishma, praise
+Drona and Aswatthaman, who both father and son, are mighty warriors,
+worthy of praise, and the best of Brahmanas, and either of whom, O Bhishma,
+if enraged could annihilate this earth with its mobile and immobile
+creatures, as I believe. I do not behold, O Bhishma, the king that is
+equal in battle unto Drona or Aswatthaman. Why wishest thou not to praise
+them? Passing over Duryyodhana, that mighty-armed king of kings, who is
+unequalled in whole earth girt with her seas and king Jayadratha
+accomplished in weapons and endued with great prowess, and Druma the
+preceptor of the Kimpurushas and celebrated over the world for prowess,
+and Saradwata's son, old Kripa, the preceptor of the Bharata princes and
+endued with great energy, why dost thou praise Kesava? Passing over that
+foremost of bowmen--that excellent of kings, Rukmin of great energy, why
+praisest thou Kesava? Passing over Bhishmaka of abundant energy, and king
+Dantavakra, and Bhagadatta known for his innumerable sacrificial stakes,
+and Jayatsena the king of the Magadha, and Virata and Drupada, and Sakuni
+and Vrihadvala, and Vinda and Anuvinda of Avant Pandya, Sweta Uttama
+Sankhya of great prosperity, the proud Vrishasena, the powerful Ekalavya,
+and the great charioteer Kalinga of abundant energy, why dost thou praise
+Kesava? And, O Bhishma, if thy mind is always inclined to sing the praises
+of others, why dost thou not praise Salya and other rulers of the earth? O
+king, what can be done by me when (it seemeth) thou hast not heard
+anything before from virtuous old men giving lessons in morality? Hast
+thou never heard, O Bhishma, that reproach and glorification, both of self
+and others, are not practices of those that are respectable? There is no
+one that approveth thy conduct, O Bhishma, in unceasingly praising with
+devotion, from ignorance alone, Kesava so unworthy of praise. How dost
+thou, from thy wish alone, establish the whole universe in the servitor
+and cowherd of Bhoja (Kansa)? Perhaps, O Bharata, this thy inclination is
+not conformable to thy true nature, like to what may be in the bird
+Bhulinga, as hath already been said by me. There is a bird called Bhulinga
+living on the other side of the Himavat. O Bhishma, that bird ever
+uttereth words of adverse import. "Never do anything rash,"--this is what
+she always sayeth, but never understandeth that she herself always acteth
+very rashly. Possessed of little intelligence that bird picketh from the
+lion's mouth the pieces of flesh sticking between the teeth, and at a time
+when the lion is employed in eating. Assuredly, O Bhishma, that bird
+liveth at the pleasure of the lion. O sinful wretch, thou always speakest
+like that bird. And assuredly, O Bhishma, thou art alive at the pleasure
+only of these kings. Employed in acts contrary to the opinions of all,
+there is none else like thee!'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Hearing these harsh words of the ruler of Chedi,
+Bhishma, O king, said in the hearing of the king of Chedi,--'Truly am I
+alive at the pleasure of these rulers of earth. But I do regard these
+kings as not equal to even a straw.' As soon as these words were spoken by
+Bhishma, the kings became inflamed with wrath. And the down of some
+amongst them stood erect and some began to reprove Bhishma. And hearing
+those words of Bhishma, some amongst them, that were wielders of large
+bows exclaimed, 'This wretched Bhishma, though old, is exceedingly
+boastful. He deserveth not our pardon. Therefore, ye kings, incensed with
+rage as this Bhishma is, it is well that this wretch were slain like an
+animal, or, mustering together, let us burn him in a fire of grass or
+straw.' Hearing these words of the monarchs, Bhishma the grand-sire of the
+Kurus, endued with great intelligence, addressing those lords of earth,
+said,--'I do not see the end of our speeches, for words may be answered
+with words. Therefore, ye lords of earth, listen ye all unto what I say.
+Whether I be slain like an animal or burnt in a fire of grass and straw,
+thus do I distinctly place my foot on the heads of ye all. Here is Govinda,
+that knoweth no deterioration. Him have we worshipped. Let him who wisheth
+for speedy death, summon to battle Madhava of dark hue and the wielder of
+the discus and the mace; and falling enter into and mingle with the body
+of this god!'"
+
+
+SECTION XLIV
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Hearing these words of Bhishma, the ruler of Chedi
+endued with exceeding prowess, desirous of combating with Vasudeva
+addressed him and said,--'O Janarddana, I challenge thee. Come, fight with
+me until I slay thee today with all the Pandavas. For, O Krishna, the sons
+of Pandu also, who disregarding the claims of all these kings, have
+worshipped thee who art no king, deserve to be slain by me along with thee.
+Even this is my opinion, O Krishna, that they who from childishness have
+worshipped thee, as if thou deservest it, although thou art unworthy of
+worship, being only a slave and a wretch and no king, deserve to be slain
+by me.' Having said this, that tiger among kings stood there roaring in
+anger. And after Sisupala had ceased, Krishna addressing all the kings in
+the presence of the Pandavas, spoke these words in a soft voice.--'Ye
+kings, this wicked-minded one, who is the son of a daughter of the Satwata
+race, is a great enemy of us of the Satwata race; and though we never seek
+to injure him, he ever seeketh our evil. This wretch of cruel deeds, ye
+kings, hearing that we had gone to the city of Pragjyotisha, came and
+burnt Dwaraka, although he is the son of my father's sister. While king
+Bhoja was sporting on the Raivataka hill, this one fell upon the
+attendants of that king and slew and led away many of them in chains to
+his own city. Sinful in all his purpose, this wretch, in order to obstruct
+the sacrifice of my father, stole the sacrificial horse of the horse-
+sacrifice that had been let loose under the guard of armed men. Prompted
+by sinful motives, this one ravished the reluctant wife of the innocent
+Vabhru (Akrura) on her way from Dwaraka to the country of the Sauviras.
+This injurer of his maternal uncle, disguising himself in the attire of
+the king of Karusha, ravished also the innocent Bhadra, the princess of
+Visala, the intended bride of king Karusha. I have patiently borne all
+these sorrows for the sake of my father's sister. It is, however, very
+fortunate that all this hath occurred today in the presence of all the
+kings. Behold ye all today the hostility this one beareth towards me. And
+know ye also all that he hath done me at my back. For the excess of that
+pride in which he hath indulged in the presence of all these monarchs, he
+deserveth to be slain by me. I am ill able to pardon today the injuries
+that he hath done me. Desirous of speedy death, this fool had desired
+Rukmini. But the fool obtained her not, like a Sudra failing to obtain the
+audition of the Vedas.'
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Hearing these words of Vasudeva, all the
+assembled monarchs began to reprove the ruler of Chedi. But the powerful
+Sisupala, having heard these words, laughed aloud and spoke thus,--'O
+Krishna, art thou not ashamed in saying in this assembly, especially
+before all these kings that Rukmini (thy wife) had been coveted by me? O
+slayer of Madhu, who else is there than thee, who regarding himself a man
+would say in the midst of respectable men that his wife had been intended
+for some body else? O Krishna, pardon me if thou pleasest, or pardon me
+not. But angry or friendly, what canst thou do unto me?'
+
+"And while Sisupala was speaking thus, the exalted slayer of Madhu thought
+in his mind of the discus that humbleth the pride of the Asuras. And as
+soon as the discus came into his hands, skilled in speech the illustrious
+one loudly uttered these words,--'Listen ye lords of earth, why this one
+had hitherto been pardoned by me. As asked by his mother, a hundred
+offences (of his) were to be pardoned by me. Even this was the boon she
+had asked, and even this I granted her. That number, ye kings, hath become
+full. I shall now slay him in your presence, ye monarchs.' Having said
+this, the chief of the Yadus, that slayer of all foes, in anger, instantly
+cut off the head of the ruler of Chedi by means of his discus. And the
+mighty-armed one fell down like a cliff struck with thunder. And, O
+monarch, the assembled kings then beheld a fierce energy, like unto the
+sun in the sky, issue out of the body of the king of Chedi, and O king,
+that energy then adored Krishna, possessed of eyes like lotus leaves and
+worshipped by all the worlds, and entered his body. And all the kings
+beholding the energy which entered that mighty-armed chief of men regarded
+it as wonderful. And when Krishna had slain the king of Chedi, the sky,
+though cloudless, poured showers of rain, and blasting thunders were
+hurled, and the earth itself began to tremble. There were some among the
+kings who spoke not a word during those unspeakable moments but merely sat
+gazing at Janarddana. And some there were that rubbed in rage their palms
+with their forefingers. And there were others who deprived of reason by
+rage bit their lips with their teeth. And some amongst the kings applauded
+him of the Vrishni race in private. And some there were that became
+excited with anger; while others became mediators. The great Rishis with
+pleased hearts praised Kesava and went away. And all the high-souled
+Brahmanas and the mighty kings that were there, beholding Krishna's
+prowess, became glad at heart and praised him.
+
+"Yudhishthira then commanded his brothers to perform without delay the
+funeral rites of king Sisupala, the brave son of Damaghosha, with proper
+respect. The sons of Pandu obeyed the behest of their brother. And
+Yudhishthira then, with all the kings, installed the son of king Sisupala
+in the sovereignty of the Chedis.
+
+"Then that sacrifice, O monarch, of the king of the Kurus possessed of
+great energy, blessed with every kind of prosperity, became exceedingly
+handsome and pleasing unto all young men. And commenced auspiciously, and
+all impediments removed, and furnished with abundance of wealth and corn,
+as also with plenty of rice and every kind of food, it was properly
+watched by Kesava. And Yudhishthira in due time completed the great
+sacrifice. And the mighty-armed Janarddana, the exalted Sauri, with his
+bow called Saranga and his discus and mace, guarded that sacrifice till
+its completion. And all the Kshatriya monarchs, having approached the
+virtuous Yudhishthira who had bathed after the conclusion of the sacrifice,
+said these words: 'By good fortune thou hast come out successful. O
+virtuous one, thou hast obtained the imperial dignity. O thou of the
+Ajamida race, by thee hath been spread the fame of thy whole race. And, O
+king of kings, by this act of thine, thou hast also acquired great
+religious merit. We have been worshipped by thee to the full extent of our
+desires. We now tell thee that we are desirous of returning to our own
+kingdoms. It behoveth thee to grant us permission.'
+
+"Hearing these words of the monarchs, king Yudhishthira the just,
+worshipping each as he deserved, commanded his brothers, saying, 'These
+monarchs had all come to us at their own pleasure. These chastisers of
+foes are now desirous of returning to their own kingdoms, bidding me
+farewell. Blest be ye, follow ye these excellent kings to the confines of
+our own dominions.' Hearing these words of their brother, the virtuous
+Pandava princes followed the kings, one after another as each deserved.
+The powerful Dhrishtadyumna followed without loss of time king Virata: and
+Dhananjaya followed the illustrious and mighty charioteer Yajnasena; and
+the mighty Bhimasena followed Bhishma and Dhritarashtra: and Sahadeva,
+that master of battle, followed the brave Drona and his son; and Nakula, O
+king, followed Suvala with his son; and the sons of Draupadi with the son
+of Subhadra followed those mighty warriors--the kings of the mountainous
+countries. And other bulls among Kshatriyas followed other Kshatriyas. And
+the Brahmanas by thousands also went away, duly worshipped.
+
+"After all the Kings and the Brahmanas had gone away, the powerful
+Vasudeva addressing Yudhishthira said,--'O son of the Kuru race, with thy
+leave, I also desire to go to Dwaraka. By great good fortune, thou hast
+accomplished the foremost of sacrifices--Rajasuya!' Thus addressed by
+Janarddana, Yudhishthira replied, 'Owing to thy grace, O Govinda, I have
+accomplished the great sacrifice. And it is owing to thy grace that the
+whole Kshatriya world having accepted my sway, had come hither with
+valuable tribute. O hero, without thee, my heart never feeleth any delight.
+How can I, therefore, O hero, give thee, O sinless one, leave to go? But
+thou must have to go to the city of Dwaraka.' The virtuous Hari of
+worldwide fame, thus addressed by Yudhishthira, cheerfully went with his
+cousin to Pritha and said,--'O aunt, thy sons have now obtained the
+imperial dignity. They have obtained vast wealth and been also crowned
+with success. Be pleased with all this. Commanded by thee, O aunt, I
+desire to go to Dwaraka.' After this, Kesava bade farewell to Draupadi and
+Subhadra. Coming out then of the inner apartments accompanied by
+Yudhishthira, he performed his ablutions and went through the daily rites
+of worship, and then made the Brahmanas utter benedictions. Then the
+mighty armed Daruka came there with a car of excellent design and body
+resembling the clouds. And beholding that Garuda-bannered car arrived
+thither, the high-souled one, with eyes like lotus leaves, walked round it
+respectfully and ascending on it set out for Dwaravati. And king
+Yudhishthira the just, blessed with prosperity, accompanied by his
+brothers, followed on foot the mighty Vasudeva. Then Hari with eyes like
+lotus leaves, stopping that best of cars for a moment, addressing
+Yudhishthira the son of Kunti, said,--'O king of kings, cherishest thou
+thy subjects with ceaseless vigilance and patience. And as the clouds are
+unto all creatures, as the large tree of spreading bough is unto birds, as
+he of a thousand eyes is unto the immortals, be thou the refuge and
+support of thy relatives.' And Krishna and Yudhishthira having thus talked
+unto each other took each other's leave and returned to their respective
+homes. And, O king, after the chief of the Satwata race had gone to
+Dwaravati, king Duryodhana alone, with king Suvala's son, Sakuni,--these
+bulls among men,--continued to live in that celestial assembly house."
+
+
+SECTION XLV
+
+(Dyuta Parva)
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"when that foremost of sacrifices, the Rajasuya so
+difficult of accomplishment, was completed, Vyasa surrounded by his
+disciples presented himself before Yudhishthira. And Yudhishthira, upon
+beholding him quickly rose from his seat, surrounded by his brothers, and
+worshipped the Rishi who was his grand-father, with water to wash his feet
+and the offer of a seat. The illustrious one having taken his seat on a
+costly carpet inlaid with gold, addressed king Yudhishthira the just and
+said.--'Take thy seat'. And after the king had taken his seat surrounded
+by his brothers, the illustrious Vyasa, truthful in speech said,--'O son
+of Kunti, thou growest from good fortune. Thou hast obtained imperial sway
+so difficult of acquisition. And O perpetuator of the Kuru race, all the
+Kauravas have prospered in consequence of thee. O Emperor, I have been
+duly worshipped. I desire now to go with thy leave!' King Yudhishthira the
+just, thus addressed by the Rishi of dark hue, saluted (him) his
+grandfather and touching his feet said,--'O chief of men, a doubt
+difficult of being dispelled, hath risen within me. O bull among
+regenerate ones, save thee there is none to remove it. The illustrious
+Rishi Narada said that (as a consequence of the Rajasuya sacrifice) three
+kinds of portents, viz., celestial, atmospherical and terrestrial ones
+happen. O grandsire, have those portents been ended by the fall of the
+king of the Chedis?'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Hearing these words of the king, the exalted son
+of Parasara, the island-born Vyasa of dark hue, spoke these words,--'For
+thirteen years, O king, those portents will bear mighty consequences
+ending in destruction, O king of kings, of all the Kshatriyas. In course
+of time, O bull of the Bharata race, making thee the sole cause, the
+assembled Kshatriyas of the world will be destroyed, O Bharata, for the
+sins of Duryodhana and through the might of Bhima and Arjuna. In thy dream,
+O king of kings thou wilt behold towards the end of this might the blue
+throated Bhava, the slayer of Tripura, ever absorbed in meditation, having
+the bull for his mark, drinking off the human skull, and fierce and
+terrible, that lord of all creatures, that god of gods, the husband of Uma,
+otherwise called Hara and Sarva, and Vrisha, armed with the trident and
+the bow called Pinaka, and attired in tiger skin. And thou wilt behold
+Siva, tall and white as the Kailasa cliff and seated on his bull, gazing
+unceasingly towards the direction (south) presided over by the king of the
+Pitris. Even this will be the dream thou wilt dream today, O king of kings.
+Do not grieve for dreaming such a dream. None can rise superior to the
+influence of Time. Blest be thou! I will now proceed towards the Kailasa
+mountain. Rule thou the earth with vigilance and steadiness, patiently
+bearing every privation!'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Having said this, the illustrious and island-
+born Vyasa of dark hue, accompanied by his disciples ever following the
+dictates of the Vedas, proceeded towards Kailasa. And after the grand-
+father had thus gone away, the king afflicted with anxiety and grief,
+began to think continuously upon what the Rishi hath said. And he said to
+himself, 'Indeed what the Rishi hath said must come to pass. We will
+succeed in warding off the fates by exertion alone?' Then Yudhishthira
+endued with great energy addressing all his brothers, said, 'Ye tigers
+among men, ye have heard what the island-born Rishi hath told me. Having
+heard the words of the Rishi, I have arrived at this firm resolution viz.,
+that I should die, as I am ordained to be the cause of the destruction of
+all Kshatriyas. Ye my dear ones, if Time hath intended so what need is
+there for me to live?' Hearing these words of the king, Arjuna replied, 'O
+king, yield not thyself to this terrible depression that is destructive of
+reason. Mustering fortitude, O great king, do what would be beneficial.'
+Yudhishthira then, firm in truth, thinking all the while of Dwaipayana's
+words answered his brothers thus,--'Blest be ye. Listen to my vow from
+this day. For thirteen years, what ever purpose have I to live for, I
+shall not speak a hard word to my brothers or to any of the kings of the
+earth. Living under the command of my relatives, I shall practise virtue,
+exemplifying my vow. If I live in this way, making no distinction between
+my own children and others, there will be no disagreement (between me and
+others). It is disagreement that is the cause of war in the world. Keeping
+war at a distance, and ever doing what is agreeable to others, evil
+reputation will not be mine in the world, ye bulls among men.' Hearing
+these words of their eldest brother, the Pandavas, always engaged in doing
+what was agreeable to him, approved of them. And Yudhishthira the just,
+having pledged so, along with his brothers in the midst of that assembly,
+gratified his priests as also the gods with due ceremonies. And, O bull of
+the Bharata race, after all the monarchs had gone away, Yudhishthira along
+with his brothers, having performed the usual auspicious rites,
+accompanied by his ministers entered his own palace. And, O ruler of men,
+king Duryodhana and Sakuni, the son of Suvala, continued to dwell in that
+delightful assembly house."
+
+
+SECTION XLVI
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"That bull among men, Duryodhana, continued to dwell
+in that assembly house (of the Pandavas). And with Sakuni, the Kuru
+prince slowly examined the whole of that mansion, and the Kuru prince
+beheld in it many celestial designs, which he had never seen before in the
+city called after the elephant (Hastinapore). And one day king Duryodhana
+in going round that mansion came upon a crystal surface. And the king,
+from ignorance, mistaking it for a pool of water, drew up his clothes. And
+afterwards finding out his mistake the king wandered about the mansion in
+great sorrow. And sometime after, the king, mistaking a lake of crystal
+water adorned with lotuses of crystal petals for land, fell into it with
+all his clothes on. Beholding Duryodhana fallen into the lake, the mighty
+Bhima laughed aloud as also the menials of the palace. And the servants,
+at the command of the king, soon brought him dry and handsome clothes.
+Beholding the plight of Duryodhana, the mighty Bhima and Arjuna and both
+the twins--all laughed aloud. Being unused to putting up with insults,
+Duryodhana could not bear that laugh of theirs. Concealing his emotions he
+even did not cast his looks on them. And beholding the monarch once more
+draw up his clothes to cross a piece of dry land which he had mistaken for
+water, they all laughed again. And the king sometime after mistook a
+closed door made of crystal as open. And as he was about to pass through
+it his head struck against it, and he stood with his brain reeling. And
+mistaking as closed another door made of crystal that was really open, the
+king in attempting to open it with stretched hands, tumbled down. And
+coming upon another door that was really open, the king thinking it as
+closed, went away from it. And, O monarch, king Duryodhana beholding that
+vast wealth in the Rajasuya sacrifice and having become the victim of
+those numerous errors within the assembly house at last returned, with the
+leave of the Pandavas, to Hastinapore."
+
+"And the heart of king Duryodhana, afflicted at sight of the prosperity of
+the Pandavas, became inclined to sin, as he proceeded towards his city
+reflecting on all he had seen and suffered. And beholding the Pandavas
+happy and all the kings of the earth paying homage to them, as also
+everybody, young and old, engaged in doing good unto them, and reflecting
+also on the splendour and prosperity of the illustrious sons of Pandu,
+Duryodhana, the son of Dhritarashtra, became pale. In proceeding (to his
+city) with an efflicted heart, the prince thought of nothing else but that
+assembly house and that unrivalled prosperity of the wise Yudhishthira.
+And Duryodhana, the son of Dhritarashtra, was so taken up with his
+thoughts then that he spoke not a word to Suvala's son even though the
+latter addressed him repeatedly. And Sakuni, beholding him absent-minded,
+said,--'O Duryodhana, why art thou proceeding thus'?
+
+"Duryodhana replied,--'O uncle, beholding this whole earth owning the sway
+of Yudhishthira in consequence of the might of the illustrious Arjuna's
+weapons and beholding also that sacrifice of the son of Pritha like unto
+the sacrifice of Sakra himself of great glory among the celestials, I,
+being filled with jealousy and burning day and night, am being dried up
+like a shallow tank in the summer season. Behold, when Sisupala was slain
+by the chief of the Satwatas, there was no man to take the side of
+Sisupala. Consumed by the fire of the Pandava, they all forgave that
+offence; otherwise who is there that could forgive it? That highly
+improper act of grave consequence done by Vasudeva succeeded in
+consequence of the power of the illustrious son of Pandu. And so many
+monarchs also brought with them various kinds of wealth for king
+Yudhishthira, the son of Kunti, like tribute-paying Vaisyas! Beholding
+Yudhishthira's prosperity of such splendour, my heart burneth, efflicted
+with jealously, although it behoveth me not to be jealous.'
+
+"Having reflected in this way, Duryodhana, as if burnt by fire, addressed
+the king of Gandhara again and said,--'I shall throw myself upon a flaming
+fire or swallow poison or drown myself in water. I cannot live. What man
+is there in the world possessed of vigour who can bear to see his foes in
+the enjoyment of prosperity and himself in destitution? Therefore I who
+bear to see that accession of prosperity and fortune (in my foes) am
+neither a woman nor one that is not a woman, neither also a man nor one
+that is not a man. Beholding their sovereignty over the world and vast
+affluence, as also that sacrifice, who is there like me that would not
+smart under all that? Alone I am incapable of acquiring such royal
+prosperity; nor do I behold allies that could help me in the matter. It is
+for this that I am thinking of self-destruction. Beholding that great and
+serene prosperity of the son of Kunti, I regard Fate as supreme and
+exertions fruitless. O son of Suvala, formerly I strove to compass his
+destruction. But baffling all my efforts he hath grown in prosperity even
+like the lotus from within a pool of water. It is for this that I regard
+Fate as supreme and exertions fruitless. Behold, the sons of Dhritarashtra
+are decaying and the sons of Pritha are growing day by day. Beholding that
+prosperity of the Pandavas, and that assembly house of theirs, and those
+menials laughing at me, my heart burneth as if it were on fire. Therefore,
+O uncle, know me now as deeply grieved and filled with jealousy, and speak
+of it to Dhritarashtra.'
+
+
+SECTION XLVII
+
+"Sakuni said.--'O Duryodhana, thou shouldst not be jealous of Yudhishthira.
+The sons of Pandu are enjoying what they deserve in consequence of their
+own good fortune. O slayer of foes, O great king, thou couldst not destroy
+them by repeatedly devising numberless plans, many of which thou hadst
+even put to practice. Those tigers among men out of sheer luck escaped all
+those machinations. They have obtained Draupadi for wife and Drupada with
+his sons as also Vasudeva of great prowess as allies, capable of helping
+them in subjugating the whole world. And O king, having inherited the
+paternal share of the kingdom without being deprived of it they have grown
+in consequence of their own energy. What is there to make thee sorry for
+this? Having gratified Hustasana, Dhananjaya hath obtained the bow Gandiva
+and the couple of inexhaustible quivers and many celestial weapons. With
+that unique bow and by the strength of his own arms also he hath brought
+all the kings of the world under his sway. What is there to make thee
+sorry for this? Having saved the Asura Maya from a conflagration, Arjuna,
+that slayer of foes, using both his hands with equal skill, caused him to
+build that assembly house. And it is for this also that commanded by Maya,
+those grim Rakshasas called Kinkaras supported that assembly house. What
+is there in this to make thee sorry? Thou hast said, O king, that thou art
+without allies. This, O Bharata, is not true. These thy brothers are
+obedient to thee. Drona of great prowess and wielding the large bow along
+with his son, Radha's son Karna, the great warrior Gautama (Kripa), myself
+with my brothers and king Saumadatti--these are thy allies. Uniting
+thyself with these, conquer thou the whole of the earth.'
+
+"Duryodhana said,--'O king, with thee, as also with these great warriors,
+I shall subjugate the Pandavas, if it pleases thee. If I can now subjugate
+them, the world will be mine and all the monarchs, and that assembly house
+so full of wealth.'
+
+"Sakuni replied,--'Dhananjaya and Vasudeva, Bhimasena and Yudhishthira,
+Nakula and Sahadeva and Drupada with his sons,--these cannot be vanquished
+in battle by even the celestials, for they are all great warriors wielding
+the largest bows, accomplished in weapons, and delighting in battle. But,
+O king, I know the means by which Yudhishthira himself may be vanquished.
+Listen to me and adopt it.'
+
+"Duryodhana said,--'without danger to our friends and other illustrious
+men, O uncle, tell me if there is any way by which I may vanquish him.'
+
+"Sakuni said,--'The son of Kunti is very fond of dice-play although he
+doth not know how to play. That king if asked to play, is ill able to
+refuse. I am skillful at dice. There is none equal to me in this respect
+on earth, no, not even in the three worlds, O son of Kuru. Therefore, ask
+him to play at dice. Skilled at dice, I will win his kingdom, and that
+splendid prosperity of his for thee, O bull among men. But, O Duryodhana,
+represent all this unto the king (Dhritarashtra). Commanded by thy father
+I will win without doubt the whole of Yudhishthira's possessions.'
+
+"Duryodhana said 'O son of Suvala, thou thyself represent properly all
+this to Dhritarashtra, the chief of the Kurus. I shall not be able to do
+so.'"
+
+
+SECTION XLVIII
+
+Vaisampayana said--"O king, impressed with the great Rajasuya sacrifice of
+king Yudhishthira, Sakuni, the son of Suvala, having learnt before the
+intentions of Duryodhana, while accompanying him in the way from the
+assembly house, and desirous of saying what was agreeable to him,
+approached Dhritarashtra endued with great wisdom, and finding the monarch
+deprived of his eye seated (in his throne), told him these words,--'Know,
+O great king, O bull of the Bharata race, that Duryodhana, having lost
+colour, hath become pale and emaciated and depressed and a prey to anxiety.
+Why dost thou not, after due enquiry, ascertain the grief that is in the
+heart of thy eldest son, the grief that is caused by the foe?'
+
+"Dhritarashtra said,--'Duryodhana, what is the reason of thy great
+affliction, O son of the Kuru race? If it is fit for me to hear it, then
+tell me the reason. This Sakuni here says that thou hast lost colour,
+become pale and emaciated, and a prey to anxiety. I do not know what can
+be the reason of the sorrow. This vast wealth of mine is at thy control.
+Thy brothers and all our relations never do anything that is disagreeable
+to thee. Thou wearest the best apparel and eatest the best food that is
+prepared with meat. The best of horse carries thee. What it is, therefore,
+that hath made thee pale and emaciated? Costly beds, beautiful damsels,
+mansions decked with excellent furniture, and sport of the delightful kind,
+without doubt these all wait but at thy command, as in the case of the
+gods themselves. Therefore, O proud one, why dost thou grieve, O son, as if
+thou wert destitute.'
+
+"Duryodhana said,--'I eat and dress myself like a wretch and pass my time
+all the while a prey to fierce jealousy. He indeed is a man, who incapable
+of bearing the pride of the foe, liveth having vanquished that foe with
+the desire of liberating his own subjects from the tyranny of the foe.
+Contentment, as also pride, O Bharata, are destructive of prosperity; and
+those other two qualities also, viz., compassion and fear. One who acteth
+under the influence of these, never obtaineth anything high. Having beheld
+Yudhishthira's prosperity, whatever I enjoy brings me no gratification.
+The prosperity of Kunti's son that is possessed of such splendour maketh
+me pale. Knowing the affluence of the foe and my own destitution, even
+though that affluence is not before me, I yet see it before me. Therefore,
+have I lost colour and become melancholy, pale and emaciated. Yudhishthira
+supporteth eighty-eight thousand Snataka Brahmanas leading domestic lives,
+giving unto each of them thirty slave-girls. Beside this, thousand other
+Brahmanas daily eat at his palace the best of food on golden plates. The
+king of Kambhoja sent unto him (as tribute) innumerable skins, black,
+darkish, and red, of the deer Kadali, as also numberless blankets of
+excellent textures. And hundreds and thousands and thousands of she-
+elephants and thirty thousand she-camels wander within the palace, for the
+kings of the earth brought them all as tribute to the capital of the
+Pandavas. And, O lord of earth, the kings also brought unto this foremost
+of sacrifices heaps upon heaps of jewels and gems for the son of Kunti.
+Never before did I see or hear of such enormous wealth as was brought unto
+the sacrifice of the intelligent sons of Pandu. And, O king, beholding
+that enormous collection of wealth belonging to the foe, I can not enjoy
+peace of mind. Hundreds of Brahmanas supported by the grants that
+Yudhishthira hath given them and possessing wealth of kine, waited at the
+palace gate with three thousands of millions of tribute but were prevented
+by the keepers from entering the mansion. Bringing with them clarified
+butter in handsome Kamandalus made of gold, they did not obtain admission
+into the palace, and Ocean himself brought unto him in vessels of white
+copper the nectar that is generated within his waters and which is much
+superior to that which flowers and annual plants produce for Sakra. And
+Vasudeva (at the conclusion of the sacrifice) having brought an excellent
+conch bathed the Sun of Pritha with sea water brought in thousand jars of
+gold, all well adorned with numerous gems. Beholding all this I became
+feverish with jealousy. Those jars had been taken to the Eastern and the
+Southern oceans. And they had also been taken on the shoulders of men to
+the Western ocean, O bull among men. And, O father, although none but
+birds only can go to the Northern region Arjuna, having gone thither,
+exacted as tribute a vast quantity of wealth. There is another wonderful
+incident also which I will relate to thee. O listen to me. When a hundred
+thousand Brahmanas were fed, it had been arranged that to notify this act
+every day conches would be blown in a chorus. But, O Bharata, I
+continually heard conches blown there almost repeatedly. And hearing those
+notes my hair stood on end. And, O great king, that palatial compound,
+filled with innumerable monarchs that came there as spectators, looked
+exceedingly handsome like the cloudless firmament with stars. And, O king
+of men, the monarchs came into that sacrifice of the wise son of Pandu
+bringing with them every kind of wealth. And the kings that came there
+became like Vaisyas the distributors of food unto the Brahmanas that were
+fed. And O king, the prosperity that I beheld of Yudhishthira was such
+that neither the chief himself of the celestials, nor Yama or Varuna, nor
+the lord of the Guhyakas owneth the same. And beholding that great
+prosperity of the son of Pandu, my heart burneth and I cannot enjoy
+peace.'
+
+"Hearing these words of Duryodhana, Sakuni replied,--'Hear how thou mayest
+obtain this unrivalled prosperity that thou beholdest in the son of Pandu,
+O thou that hast truth for thy prowess. O Bharata, I am an adept at dice,
+superior to all in the world. I can ascertain the success or otherwise of
+every throw, and when to stake and when not. I have special knowledge of
+the game. The Son of Kunti also is fond of dice playing though he
+possesseth little skill in it. Summoned to play or battle, he is sure to
+come forward, and I will defeat him repeatedly at every throw by
+practising deception. I promise to win all that wealth of his, and thou, O
+Duryodhana, shalt then enjoy the same.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"King Duryodhana, thus addressed by Sakuni,
+without allowing a moment to elapse, said unto Dhritarashtra,--'This,
+Sakuni, an adept at dice, is ready to win at dice, O king, the wealth of
+the sons of Pandu. It behoveth thee to grant him permission to do so.'
+
+"Dhritarashtra replied,--'I always follow the counsels of Kshatta, my
+minister possessed of great wisdom. Having consulted with him, I will
+inform thee what my judgment is in respect of this affair. Endued with
+great foresight, he will, keeping morality before his eyes, tell us what
+is good and what is proper for both parties, and what should be done in
+this matter.'
+
+"Duryodhana said,--'If thou consultest with Kshatta he will make thee
+desist. And if thou desist, O king, I will certainly kill myself. And when
+I am dead, O king, thou wilt become happy with Vidura. Thou wilt then
+enjoy the whole earth; what need hast thou with me?'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Dhritarashtra, hearing these words of affliction
+uttered by Duryodhana from mixed feeling, himself ready to what Duryodhana
+had dictated, commanded his servant, saying,--'Let artificers be employed
+to erect without delay a delightful and handsome and spacious palace with
+an hundred doors and a thousand columns. And having brought carpenters and
+joiners, set ye jewels and precious stones all over the walls. And making
+it handsome and easy of access, report to me when everything is complete.'
+And, O monarch, king Dhritarashtra having made this resolution for the
+pacification of Duryodhana, sent messengers unto Vidura for summoning him.
+For without taking counsel with Vidura never did the monarch form any
+resolution. But as regards the matter at hand, the king although he knew
+the evils of gambling, was yet attracted towards it. The intelligent
+Vidura, however, as soon as he heard of it, knew that the arrival of Kali
+was at hand. And seeing that the way to destruction was about to open, he
+quickly came to Dhritarashtra. And Vidura approaching his illustrious
+eldest brother and bowing down unto his feet, said these words:
+
+"'O exalted king, I do not approve of this resolution that thou hast
+formed. It behave thee, O king, to act in such a way that no dispute may
+arise between thy children on account of this gambling match.'
+
+"Dhritarashtra replied,--'O Kshatta, if the gods be merciful unto us,
+assuredly no dispute will ever arise amongst my sons. Therefore,
+auspicious or otherwise, beneficial or otherwise, let this friendly
+challenge at dice proceed. Even this without doubt is what fate hath
+ordained for us. And, O son of the Bharata race, when I am near, and Drona
+and Bhishma and thou too, nothing evil that even Fate might have ordained
+is likely to happen. Therefore, go thou on a car yoking thereto horses
+endued with the speed of the wind, so that thou mayest reach
+Khandavaprastha even today and bring thou Yudhishthira with thee. And, O
+Vidura, I tell that even this is my resolution. Tell me nothing. I regard
+Fate as supreme which bringeth all this.' Hearing these words of
+Dhritarashtra and concluding that his race was doomed, Vidura in great
+sorrow went unto Bhishma with great wisdom."
+
+
+SECTION XLIX
+
+Janamejaya said,--"O thou foremost of all conversant with the Vedas, how
+did that game at dice take place, fraught with such evil to the cousins
+and through which my grand-sires, the son of Pandu, were plunged into such
+sorrow? What kings also were present in that assembly, and who amongst
+them approved of the gambling match and who amongst them forbade it? O
+sinless one, O chief of regenerate ones, I desire thee to recite in detail
+all about this, which, indeed, was the cause of the destruction of the
+world."
+
+Santi said,--"Thus addressed by the king, the disciple of Vyasa, endued
+with great energy and conversant with the entire Vedas, narrated
+everything that had happened."
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"O best of the Bharatas, O great king, if thou
+desirest to hear, then listen to me as I narrate to thee everything again
+in detail.
+
+"Ascertaining the opinion of Vidura, Dhritarashtra the son of Amvika,
+calling Duryodhana told him again in private--'O son of Gandhari, have
+nothing to do with dice. Vidura doth not speak well of it. Possessed of
+great wisdom, he will never give me advice that is not for my good. I also
+regard what Vidura sayeth as exceedingly beneficial for me. Do that, O son,
+for I regard it all as for thy good also. Indeed, Vidura knoweth with all
+its mysteries the science (of political morality) that the illustrious and
+learned and wise Vrihaspati, the celestial Rishi who is the spiritual
+guide of Vasava--had unfolded unto the wise chief of the immortals. And O
+son, I always accept what Vidura adviseth. O king, as the wise Uddhava is
+ever regarded amongst the Vrishnis, so is Vidura possessed of great
+intelligence esteemed as the foremost of the Kurus. Therefore, O son, have
+nothing to do with dice. It is evident that dice soweth dissensions. And
+dissensions are the ruin of the kingdom. Therefore, O son, abandon this
+idea of gambling. O son, thou hast obtained from us what, it hath been
+ordained, a father and a mother should give unto their son, viz.,
+ancestral rank and possessions. Thou art educated and clever in every
+branch of knowledge, and hast been brought up with affection in thy
+paternal dwelling. Born the eldest among all thy brothers, living within
+thy own kingdom, why regardest thou thyself as unhappy? O thou of mighty
+arms, thou obtainest food and attire of the very best kind and which is
+not obtainable by ordinary men. Why dost thou grieve yet. O son, O mighty-
+armed one, ruling thy large ancestral kingdom swelling with people and
+wealth, thou shinest as splendidly as the chief of the celestials in
+heaven. Thou art possessed of wisdom. It behoveth thee to tell me what can
+be the root of this grief that hath made thee so melancholy.'
+
+"Duryodhana replied,--'I am a sinful wretch, O king, because I eat and
+dress beholding (the prosperity of the foes). It hath been said that man
+is a wretch who is not filled with jealousy at the sight of his enemy's
+prosperity. O exalted one, this kind of prosperity of mine doth not
+gratify me. Beholding that blazing prosperity of the son of Kunti, I am
+very much pained. I tell thee strong must be my vitality, in as much as I
+am living even at the sight of the whole earth owning the sway of
+Yudhishthira. The Nipas, the Chitrakas, the Kukkuras, the Karaskaras, and
+the Lauha-janghas are living in the palace of Yudhishthira like bondsmen.
+The Himavat, the ocean, the regions on the sea-shore, and the numberless
+other regions that yield jewels and gems, have all acknowledged
+superiority of the mansion of Yudhishthira in respect of wealth it
+containeth. And, O Monarch, regarding me as the eldest and entitled to
+respect, Yudhishthira having received me respectfully, appointed me in
+receiving the jewels and gems (that were brought as tribute). O Bharata,
+the limit and the like of the excellent and invaluable jewels that were
+brought there have not been seen. And O king, my hands were fatigued in
+receiving that wealth. And when I was tired, they that brought those
+valuable articles from distant regions used to wait till I was able to
+resume my labour. Bringing jewels from the lake Vindu, the Asura architect
+Maya constructed (for the Pandavas) a lake-like surface made of crystal.
+Beholding the (artificial) lotuses with which it was filled, I mistook it,
+O king for water. And seeing me draw up my clothes (while about to cross
+it), Vrikodara (Bhima) laughed at me, regarding me as wanting in jewels
+and having lost my head at the sight of the affluence of my enemy. If I
+had the ability, I would, O king, without the loss of a moment, slay
+Vrikodara for that. But, O monarch, if we endeavour to slay Bhima now,
+without doubt, ours will be the fate of Sisupala. O Bharata, that insult
+by the foe burneth me. Once again, O king, beholding a similar lake that
+is really full of water but which I mistook for a crystal surface, I fell
+into it. At that, Bhima with Arjuna once more laughed derisively, and
+Draupadi also accompanied by other females joined in the laughter. That
+paineth my heart exceedingly. My apparel having been wet, the menials at
+the command of the king gave me other clothes. That also is my great
+sorrow. And O king, hear now of another mistake that I speak of. In
+attempting to pass through what is exactly of the shape of a door but
+through which there was really no passage, I struck my forehead against
+stone and injured myself. The twins Nakula and Sahadeva beholding from a
+distance that I was so hit at the head came and supported me in their arms,
+expressing great concern for me. And Sahadeva repeatedly told me, as if
+with a smile,--"This O king, is the door. Go this way!" And Bhimasena,
+laughing aloud, addressed me and said,--"O son of Dhritarashtra, this is
+the door." And, O king I had not even heard of the names of those gems that
+I saw in that mansion. And it is for these reasons that my heart so
+acheth.'
+
+
+SECTION L
+
+"Duryodhana said,--'Listen now, O Bharata, about all the most costly
+articles I saw, belonging unto the sons of Pandu, and brought one after
+another by the kings of the earth. Beholding that wealth of the foe, I
+lost my reason and scarcely knew myself. And, O Bharata, listen as I
+describe that wealth consisting of both manufactures and the produce of
+the land. The king of Kamboja gave innumerable skins of the best kind, and
+blankets made of wool, of the soft fur of rodents and other burroughers,
+and of the hair of cats,--all inlaid with threads of gold. And he also
+gave three hundred horses of the Titteti and the Kalmasha species
+possessing noses like parrots. And he also gave three hundred camels and
+an equal number of she-asses, all fattened with the olives and the Pilusha.
+And innumerable Brahmanas engaged in rearing cattle and occupied in low
+offices for the gratification of the illustrious king Yudhishthira the
+just waited at the gate with three hundred millions of tribute but they
+were denied admission into the palace. And hundred upon hundreds of
+Brahmanas possessing wealth of kine and living upon the lands that
+Yudhishthira had given them, came there with their handsome golden
+Kamandalus filled with clarified butter. And though they had brought such
+tribute, they were refused admission into the palace. And the Sudra kings
+that dwelt in the regions on the seacoast, brought with them, O king,
+hundred thousands of serving girls of the Karpasika country, all of
+beautiful features and slender waist and luxuriant hair and decked in
+golden ornaments; and also many skins of the Ranku deer worthy even of
+Brahmanas as tribute unto king Yudhishthira. And the tribes Vairamas,
+Paradas, Tungas, with the Kitavas who lived upon crops that depended on
+water from the sky or of the river and also they who were born in regions
+on the sea-shore, in woodlands, or countries on the other side of the
+ocean waited at the gate, being refused permission to enter, with goats
+and kine and asses and camels and vegetable, honey and blankets and jewels
+and gems of various kinds. And that great warrior king Bhagadatta, the
+brave ruler of Pragjyotisha and the mighty sovereign of the mlechchas, at
+the head of a large number of Yavanas waited at the gate unable to enter,
+with a considerable tribute comprising of horses of the best breed and
+possessing the speed of the wind. And king Bhagadatta (beholding the
+concourse) had to go away from the gate, making over a number of swords
+with handles made of the purest ivory and well-adorned with diamonds and
+every kind of gems. And many tribes coming from different regions, of whom
+some possess two eyes, some three and some had eyes on their foreheads,
+and those also called Aushmikas, and Nishadas, and Romakas, some cannibals
+and many possessing only one leg, I say, O king, standing at the gate,
+being refused permission to enter. And these diverse rulers brought as
+tribute ten thousand asses of diverse hues and black necks and huge bodies
+and great speed and much docility and celebrated all over the world. And
+these asses were all of goodly size and delightful colour. And they were
+all bred on the coast of Vankhu. And there were many kings that gave unto
+Yudhishthira much gold and silver. And having given much tribute they
+obtained admission into the palace of Yudhishthira. The people that came
+there possessing only one leg gave unto Yudhishthira many wild horses,
+some of which were as red as the cochineal, and some white, and some
+possessing the hues of the rainbow and some looking like evening clouds,
+and some that were of variegated colour. And they were all endued with the
+speed of the mind. And they also gave unto the king enough gold of
+superior quality. I also saw numberless Chins and Sakas and Uddras and
+many barbarous tribes living in the woods, and many Vrishnis and Harahunas,
+and dusky tribes of the Himavat, and many Nipas and people residing in
+regions on the sea-coast, waiting at the gate being refused permission to
+enter. And the people of Valhika gave unto him as tribute ten thousand
+asses, of goodly size and black necks and daily running two hundred miles,
+And those asses were of many shapes. And they were well-trained and
+celebrated all over the world. And possessed of symmetrical proportion and
+excellent colour, their skins were pleasant to the touch. And the Valhikas
+also presented numerous blankets of woollen texture manufactured in Chin
+and numerous skins of the Ranku deer, and clothes manufactured from jute,
+and others woven with the threads spun by insects. And they also gave
+thousands of other clothes not made of cotton, possessing the colour of
+the lotus. And these were all of smooth texture. And they also gave soft
+sheep-skins by thousands. And they also gave many sharp and long swords
+and scimitars, and hatchets and fine-edged battle-axes manufactured in the
+western countries. And having presented perfumes and jewels and gems of
+various kinds by thousands as tribute, they waited at the gate, being
+refused admission into the palace. And the Sakas and Tukhatas and Tukharas
+and Kankas and Romakas and men with horns bringing with them as tribute
+numerous large elephants and ten thousand horses, and hundreds and
+hundreds of millions of gold waited at the gate, being refused permission
+to enter. And the kings of the eastern countries having presented numerous
+valuable articles including many costly carpets and vehicles and beds, and
+armours of diverse hues decked with jewels and gold and ivory, and weapons
+of various kinds, and cars of various shapes and handsome make and adorned
+with gold, with well-trained horses trimmed with tiger skins, and rich and
+variegated blankets for caprisoning elephants, and various kinds of jewels
+and gems, arrows long and short and various other kinds of weapons,
+obtained permission to enter the sacrificial palace of the illustrious
+Pandava!'
+
+
+SECTION LI
+
+"Duryodhana said,--'O sinless one, listen to me as I describe that large
+mass of wealth consisting of various kinds of tribute presented unto
+Yudhishthira by the kings of the earth. They that dwell by the side of the
+river Sailoda flowing between the mountains of Mer and Mandara and enjoy
+the delicious shade of topes of the Kichaka bamboo, viz., the Khashas,
+Ekasanas, the Arhas, the Pradaras, the Dirghavenus, the Paradas, the
+Kulindas, the Tanganas, and the other Tanganas, brought as tribute heaps
+of gold measured in dronas (jars) and raised from underneath the earth by
+ants and therefore called after these creatures. The mountain tribes
+endued with great strength having brought as tribute numerous Chamaras
+(long brushes) soft and black and others white as moon-beam and sweet
+honey extracted from the flowers growing on the Himavat as also from the
+Mishali champaka and garlands of flowers brought from the region of the
+northern Kurus, and diverse kinds of plants from the north even from
+Kailasa, waited with their heads bent down at the gate of king
+Yudhishthira, being refused permission to enter. I also beheld there
+numberless chiefs of the Kiratas armed with cruel weapons and ever engaged
+in cruel deeds, eating of fruits and roots and attired in skins and living
+on the northern slopes of the Himavat and on the mountain from behind
+which the sun rises and in the region of Karusha on the sea-coast and on
+both sides of the Lohitya mountains. And, O king, having brought with them
+as tribute loads upon loads of sandal and aloe as also black aloe, and
+heaps upon heaps of valuable skins and gold and perfumes, and ten thousand
+serving-girls of their own race, and many beautiful animals and birds of
+remote countries, and much gold of great splendour procured from mountains,
+the Kiratas waited at the gate, being refused permission to enter. The
+Kairatas, the Daradas, the Darvas, the Suras, the Vaiamakas, the
+Audumvaras, the Durvibhagas, the Kumaras, the Paradas along with the
+Vahlikas, the Kashmiras, the Ghorakas, the Hansakayanas, the Sivis, the
+Trigartas, the Yauddheyas, the ruler of Madras and the Kaikeyas, the
+Amvashtas, the Kaukuras, the Tarkshyas, the Vastrapas along with the
+Palhavas, the Vashatayas, the Mauleyas along with the Kshudrakas, and the
+Malavas, the Paundrayas, the Kukkuras, the Sakas, the Angas, the Vangas,
+the Punras, the Sanavatyas, and the Gayas--these good and well-born
+Kshatriyas distributed into regular clans and trained to the use of arms,
+brought tribute unto king Yudhishthira by hundreds and thousands. And the
+Vangas, the Kalingas, the Magadhas, the Tamraliptas, the Supundrakas, the
+Dauvalikas, the Sagarakas, the Patrornas, the Saisavas, and innumerable
+Karnapravaranas, who presented themselves at the gate, were told by the
+gate-keepers at the command of the king, that if they could wait and bring
+good tribute they could obtain admission. Then the kings of those nations
+each gave a thousand elephants furnished with tusks like unto the shafts
+of ploughs and decked with girdles made of gold, and covered with fine
+blankets and therefore, resembling the lotus in hue. And they were all
+darkish as rocks and always musty, and procured from the sides of the
+Kamyaka lake, and covered with defensive armour. And they were also
+exceedingly patient and of the best breed. And having made these presents,
+those kings were permitted to enter. O king, these and many others, coming
+from various regions, and numberless other illustrious kings, brought
+jewels and gems unto this sacrifice. And Chitraratha, also the king of
+Gandharvas, the friend of Indra, gave four hundred horses gifted with the
+speed of the wind. And the Gandharva Tumvuru gladly gave a hundred horses
+of the colour of mango leaf and decked in gold. And, O thou of the Kuru
+race, the celebrated king of the Mlechcha tribe, called the Sukaras, gave
+many hundreds of excellent elephants. And Virata, the king of Matsya, gave
+as tribute two thousand elephants decked in gold. And king Vasudana from
+the kingdom of Pansu presented unto the son of Pandu six and twenty
+elephants and two thousand horses, O king, all decked in gold and endued
+with speed and strength and in full vigour of youth, and diverse other
+kinds of wealth. And Yajnasena presented unto the sons of Pandu for the
+sacrifice, fourteen thousand serving-girls and ten thousand serving-men
+with their wives, many hundreds of excellent elephants, six and twenty
+cars with elephants yoked unto them, and also his whole kingdom. And
+Vasudeva of the Vrishni race, in order to enhance the dignity of Arjuna,
+gave fourteen thousands of excellent elephants. Indeed, Krishna is the
+soul of Arjuna and Arjuna is the soul of Krishna, and whatever Arjuna may
+say Krishna is certain to accomplish. And Krishna is capable of abandoning
+heaven itself for the sake of Arjuna, and Arjuna also is capable of
+sacrificing his life for the sake of Krishna. And the Kings of Chola and
+Pandya, though they brought numberless jars of gold filled with fragrant
+sandal juice from the hills of Malaya, and loads of sandal and aloe wood
+from the Dardduras hills, and many gems of great brilliancy and fine
+cloths inlaid with gold, did not obtain permission (to enter). And the
+king of the Singhalas gave those best of sea-born gems called the lapis
+lazuli, and heaps of pearls also, and hundreds of coverlets for elephants.
+And numberless dark-coloured men with the ends of their eyes red as
+copper, attired in clothes decked with gems, waited at the gate with those
+presents. And numberless Brahmanas and Kshatriyas who had been vanquished,
+and Vaisyas and serving Sudras, from love of Yudhishthira, brought tribute
+unto the son of Pandu. And even all the Mlechchas, from love and respect,
+came unto Yudhishthira. And all orders of men, good, indifferent and low,
+belonging to numberless races, coming from diverse lands made
+Yudhishthira's habitation the epitome of the world.'
+
+"'And beholding the kings of the earth to present unto the foes such
+excellent and valuable presents, I wished for death out of grief. And O
+king, I will now tell thee of the servants of the Pandavas, people for
+whom Yudhishthira supplieth food, both cooked and uncooked. There are a
+hundred thousand billions of mounted elephants and cavalry and a hundred
+millions of cars and countless foot soldiers. At one place raw provisions
+are being measured out; at another they are being cooked; and at another
+place the foods are being distributed. And the notes of festivity are
+being heard everywhere. And amongst men of all orders I beheld not a
+single one in the mansion of Yudhishthira that had not food and drink and
+ornaments. And eighty-eight thousands of Snataka Brahmanas leading
+domestic lives, all supported by Yudhishthira, with thirty serving-girls
+given unto each, gratified by the king, always pray with complacent hearts
+for the destruction of his foes. And ten thousands of other ascetics with
+vital seed drawn up, daily eat of golden plates in Yudhishthira's palace.
+And, O king, Yajnaseni, without having eaten herself, daily seeth whether
+everybody, including even the deformed and the dwarfs, hath eaten or not.
+And, O Bharata, only two do not pay tribute unto the son of Kunti, viz.,
+the Panchalas in consequence of their relationship by marriage, and the
+Andhakas and Vrishnis in consequence of their friendship.'
+
+
+SECTION LII
+
+"Duryodhana said,--'Those kings that are revered over all the world, who
+are devoted to truth and who are pledged to the observance of rigid vows,
+who are possessed of great learning and eloquence, who are fully
+conversant with the Vedas and their branches as also with sacrifices, who
+have piety and modesty, whose souls are devoted to virtue, who possess
+fame, and who have enjoyed the grand rites of coronation, all wait upon
+and worship Yudhishthira. And, O king, I beheld there many thousands of
+wild kine with as many vessels of white copper for milking them, brought
+thither by the kings of the earth as sacrificial presents to be given away
+by Yudhishthira unto the Brahmana. And, O Bharata, for bathing
+Yudhishthira at the conclusion of the sacrifice, many kings with the
+greatest alacrity, themselves brought there in a state of purity many
+excellent jars (containing water). And king Vahlika brought there a car
+decked with pure gold. And king Sudakshina himself yoked thereto four
+white horses of Kamboja breed, and Sunitha of great might fitted the lower
+pole and the ruler of Chedi with his own hands took up and fitted the
+flag-staff. And the king of the Southern country stood ready with the coat
+of mail; the ruler of Magadha, with garlands of flowers and the head-gear;
+the great warrior Vasudana with a sixty years old elephant, the king of
+Matsya, with the side-fittings of the car, all encased in gold; king
+Ekalavya, with the shoes; the king of Avanti, with diverse kinds of water
+for the final bath; king Chekitana, with the quiver; the king of Kasi,
+with the bow; and Salya, with a sword whose hilt and straps were adorned
+with gold. Then Dhaumya and Vyasa, of great ascetic merit, with Narada and
+Asita's son Devala, standing before performed the ceremony of sprinkling
+the sacred water over the king. And the great Rishis with cheerful hearts
+sat where the sprinkling ceremony was performed. And other illustrious
+Rishis conversant with the Vedas, with Jamadagni's son among them,
+approached Yudhishthira, the giver of large sacrificial presents, uttering
+mantras all the while, like the seven Rishis, approaching the great Indra
+in heaven. And Satyaki of unbaffled prowess held the umbrella (over the
+king's head). And Dhananjaya and Bhima were engaged in tanning the king;
+while the twins held a couple of chamaras in their hands. And the Ocean
+himself brought in a sling that big conch of Varuna which the celestial
+artificer Viswakarman had constructed with a thousand Nishkas of gold, and
+which Prajapati had in a former Kalpa, presented unto Indra. It was with
+that conch that Krishna bathed Yudhishthira after the conclusion of the
+sacrifice, and beholding it, I swooned away. People go to the Eastern or
+the Western seas and also to the Southern one. But, O father, none except
+birds can ever go to the Northern sea. But the Pandavas have spread their
+dominion even there, for I heard hundreds of conches that had been brought
+thence blown (in the sacrificial mansion) indicative of auspicious
+rejoicing. And while those conches blew simultaneously, my hair stood on
+end. And those among the kings, who were weak in strength fell down. And
+Dhrishtadyumna and Satyaki and the sons of Pandu and Kesava,--those eight,
+endued with strength and prowess and handsome in person, beholding the
+kings deprived of consciousness and myself in that plight, laughed
+outright. Then Vibhatsu (Arjuna) with a cheerful heart gave, O Bharata,
+unto the principal Brahmanas five hundred bullocks with horns plated with
+gold. And king Yudhishthira, the son of Kunti, having completed the
+Rajasuya sacrifice, obtained like the exalted Harishchandra such
+prosperity that neither Rantideva nor Nabhaga, nor Jauvanaswa, nor Manu,
+nor king Prithu the son of Vena, nor Bhagiratha, Yayati, nor Nahusha, had
+obtained its like. And beholding, O exalted one, such prosperity, in the
+son of Pritha which is even like that which Harishchandra had, I do not
+see the least good in continuing to live, O Bharata! O ruler of men, a
+yoke that is tied (to the bullock's shoulders) by a blind man becomes
+loosened. Even such is the case with us. The younger ones are growing
+while the elder ones are decaying. And beholding all this, O chief of the
+Kurus, I cannot enjoy peace even with the aid of reflection. And it is for
+this, O king, that I am plunged into grief and becoming pale and
+emaciated.'
+
+
+SECTION LIII
+
+"Dhritrashtra said,--'Thou art my eldest son and born also of my eldest
+wife. Therefore, O son, be not jealous of the Pandavas. He that is jealous
+is always unhappy and suffereth the pangs of death. O bull of the Bharata
+race, Yudhishthira knoweth not deception, possesseth wealth equal unto
+thine, hath thy friends for his, and is not jealous of thee. Why shouldst
+thou, therefore, be jealous of him? O king, in respect of friends and
+allies thou art equal unto Yudhishthira. Why shouldst thou, therefore,
+covet, from folly, the property of thy brother? Be not so. Cease to be
+jealous. Do not grieve. O bull of the Bharata race, if thou covetest the
+dignity attaching to the performance of a sacrifice, let the priests
+arrange for thee the great sacrifice, called the Saptatantu. The kings of
+the earth will then, cheerfully and with great respect, bring for thee
+also much wealth and gems and ornaments. O child, coveting other's
+possessions is exceedingly mean. He, on the other hand, enjoyeth happiness,
+who is content with his own being engaged in the practices of his own
+order. Never striving to obtain the wealth of others, persevering in one's
+own affairs, and protecting what hath been earned,--these are the
+indications of true greatness. He that is unmoved in calamity, skilled in
+his own business, ever exerting vigilance and humble, always beholdeth
+prosperity. The sons of Pandu are as thy arms. Do not lop off those arms
+of thine. Plunge not into internal dissensions for the sake of that wealth
+of thy brothers. O king, be not jealous of the sons of Pandu. Thy wealth
+is equal unto that of thy brothers in his entirety. There is great sin in
+quarrelling with friends. They that are thy grandsires are theirs also.
+Give away in charity on occasions of sacrifices, gratify every dear object
+of thy desire, disport in the company of women freely, and enjoy thou
+peace.'
+
+
+SECTION LIV
+
+"Duryodhana said,--'He that is devoid of intellect but hath merely heard
+of many things, can scarcely understand the real import of the scriptures,
+like the spoon that hath no perception of the taste of the soup it
+toucheth. Thou knowest everything, but yet confoundest me. Like a boat
+fastened to another, thou and I are tied to each other. Art thou unmindful
+of thy own interests? Or, dost thou entertain hostile feeling towards me?
+These thy sons and allies are doomed to destruction, inasmuch as they have
+thee for their ruler, for thou describest as attainable in the future what
+is to be done at the present moment. He often trippeth whose guide acts
+under the instructions of others. How then can his followers expect to
+come across a right path? O king, thou art of mature wisdom; thou hast the
+opportunity to listen to the words of old, and thy senses also are under
+thy control. It behoveth thee not to confound us who are ready to seek our
+own interests. Vrihaspati hath said that the usage of kings are different
+from those of common people. Therefore kings should always attend to their
+own interests with vigilance. The attainment of success is the sole
+criterion that should guide the conduct of a Kshatriya. Whether, therefore,
+the means is virtuous or sinful, what scruples can there be in the duties
+of one's own order? He that is desirous of snatching the blazing
+prosperity of his foe, should, O bull of the Bharata race, bring every
+direction under his subjection like the charioteer taming the steeds with
+his whip. Those used to handling weapons say that, a weapon is not simply
+an instrument that cuts but is a means, whether covert or overt, that can
+defeat a foe. Who is to be reckoned a foe and who a friend, doth not
+depend on one's figure or dimensions. He that paineth another is, O king,
+to be regarded a foe by him that is pained. Discontent is the root of
+prosperity. Therefore, O king, I desire to be discontented. He that
+striveth after the acquisition of prosperity is, O king, a truly politic
+person. Nobody should be attached to wealth and affluence, for the wealth
+that hath been earned and hoarded may be plundered. The usages of kings
+are even such. It was during a period of peace that Sakra cut off the head
+of Namuchi after having given a pledge to the contrary, and it was because
+he approved of this eternal usage towards the enemy that he did so. Like a
+snake that swalloweth up frogs and other creatures living in holes, the
+earth swalloweth up a king that is peaceful and a Brahmana that stirreth
+not out of home. O king, none can by nature be any person's foe. He is
+one's foe, and not anybody else, who hath common pursuits with one. He
+that from folly neglecteth a growing foe, hath his vitals cut off as by a
+disease that he cherished without treatment. A foe, however insignificant,
+if suffered to grow in prowess, swalloweth one like the white ants at the
+root of a tree eating off the tree itself. O Bharata, O Ajamida, let not
+the prosperity of the foe be acceptable to thee. This policy (of
+neglecting the foe) should always be borne on their heads by the wise even
+like a load. He that always wisheth for the increase of his wealth, ever
+groweth in the midst of his relatives even like the body naturally growing
+from the moment of birth. Prowess conferreth speedy growth. Coveting as I
+do the prosperity of the Pandavas, I have not yet made it my own. At
+present I am a prey to doubts in respect of my ability. I am determined to
+resolve those doubts of mine. I will either obtain that prosperity of
+theirs, or lie down having perished in battle. O king when the state of my
+mind is such, what do I care now for life, for the Pandavas are daily
+growing while our possessions know no increase?'
+
+
+SECTION LV
+
+"Sakuni said,--'O thou foremost of victorious persons, I will snatch (for
+thee) this prosperity of Yudhishthira, the son of Pandu, at the sight of
+which thou grievest so. Therefore, O king, let Yudhishthira the son of
+Kunti be summoned. By throwing dice a skilful man, himself uninjured, may
+vanquish one that hath no skill. Know, O Bharata, that betting is my bow,
+the dice are my arrows, the marks on them my bow-string, and the dice-
+board my car.'
+
+"Duryodhana said,--'This Sukuni skilled at dice, is ready, O king, to
+snatch the prosperity of the son of Pandu by means of dice. It behoveth
+thee to give him permission.'
+
+"Dhritarashtra said,--'I am obedient to the counsels of my brother, the
+illustrious Vidura. Consulting with him, I shall tell what should be done
+in this matter.'
+
+"Duryodhana said,--'Vidura is always engaged in doing good to the sons of
+Pandu. O Kaurava, his feelings towards us are otherwise. He will,
+therefore, without doubt, withdraw thy heart from the proposed act. No man
+should set himself to any task depending upon the counsels of another, for,
+O son of Kuru's race, the minds of two persons seldom agree in any
+particular act. The fool that liveth shunning all causes of fear wasteth
+himself like an insect in the rainy season. Neither sickness nor Yama
+waiteth till one is in prosperity. So long, therefore, as there is life
+and health, one should (without waiting for prosperity) accomplish his
+purpose.'
+
+"Dhritarashtra said,--'O son, hostility with those that are strong, is
+what never recommendeth itself to me. Hostility bringeth about a change of
+feelings, and that itself is a weapon though not made of steel. Thou
+regardest, O Prince, as a great blessing what will bring in its train the
+terrible consequences of war. What is really fraught with mischief. If
+once it beginneth, it will create sharp swords and pointed arrows.'
+
+"Duryodhana replied,--'Men of the most ancient times invented the use of
+dice. There is no destruction in it, nor is there any striking with
+weapons. Let the words of Sakuni, therefore, be acceptable to thee, and
+let thy command be issued for the speedy construction of the assembly
+house. The door of heaven, leading us to such happiness, will be opened to
+us by gambling. Indeed, they that betake to gambling (with such aid)
+deserve such good fortune. The Pandavas then will become thy equals
+(instead of, as now, superiors); therefore, gamble thou with the
+Pandavas.'
+
+"Dhritarashtra said.--'The words uttered by thee do not recommend
+themselves to me. Do what may be agreeable to thee, O ruler of men. But
+thou shall have to repent for acting according to these words; for, words
+that are fraught with such immorality can never bring prosperity in the
+future. Even this was foreseen by the learned Vidura ever treading the
+path of truth and wisdom. Even the great calamity, destructive of the
+lives of the Kshatriyas, cometh as destined by fate.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued--"Having said this, the weak-minded Dhritarashtra
+regarded fate as supreme and unavoidable. And the king deprived of reason
+by Fate, and obedient to the counsels of his son, commanded his men in
+loud voice, saying--'Carefully construct, without loss of time, an
+assembly house of the most beautiful description, to be called the crystal-
+arched palace with a thousand columns, decked with gold and lapis lazuli,
+furnished with a hundred gates, and full two miles in length and in
+breadth the same.' Hearing those words of his, thousands of artificers
+endued with intelligence and skill soon erected the palace with the
+greatest alacrity, and having erected it brought thither every kind of
+article. And soon after they cheerfully represented unto the king that the
+palace had been finished, and that it as delightful and handsome and
+furnished with every kind of gems and covered with many-coloured carpets
+inlaid with gold. Then king Dhritarashtra, possessed of learning,
+summoning Vidura the chief of his ministers, said:--'Repairing, (to
+Khandavaprastha), bring prince Yudhishthira here without loss of time. Let
+him come hither with his brothers, and behold this handsome assembly house
+of mine, furnished with countless jewels and gems, and costly beds and
+carpets, and let a friendly match at dice commence here.'"
+
+
+SECTION LVI
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"King Dhritarashtra, ascertaining the inclinations of
+his son and knowing that Fate is inevitable, did what I have said. Vidura,
+however, that foremost of intelligent men, approved not his brother's
+words and spoke thus, 'I approve not, O king, of this command of thine. Do
+not act so. I fear, this will bring about the destruction of our race.
+When thy sons lose their unity, dissension will certainly ensue amongst
+them. This I apprehend, O king, from this match at dice.'
+
+"Dhritarashtra said,--'If Fate be not hostile, this quarrel will not
+certainly grieve me. The whole universe moveth at the will of its Creator,
+under the controlling influence of Fate. It is not free. Therefore, O
+Vidura, going unto king Yudhishthira at my command, bring thou soon that
+invincible son of Kunti.'"
+
+
+SECTION LVII
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Vidura then, thus commanded against his will by king
+Dhritarashtra, set out, with the help of horses of high mettle and endued
+with great speed and strength, and quiet and patient, for the abode of the
+wise sons of Pandu. Possessed of great intelligence, Vidura proceeded by
+the way leading to the capital of the Pandavas. And having arrived at the
+city of king Yudhishthira, he entered it and proceeded towards the palace,
+worshipped by numberless Brahmanas. And coming to the palace which was
+even like unto the mansion of Kuvera himself, the virtuous Vidura
+approached Yudhishthira, the son of Dharma. Then the illustrious Ajamida
+devoted to truth and having no enemy on earth, reverentially saluted
+Vidura, and asked him about Dhritarashtra and his sons. And Yudhishthira
+said, 'O Kshatta, thy mind seemeth to be cheerless. Dost thou come here in
+happiness and peace? The sons of Dhritarashtra, I hope, are obedient to
+their old father. The people also, I hope, are obedient to Dhritarashtra's
+rule.'
+
+"Vidura said,--'The illustrious king, with his sons, is well and happy,
+and surrounded by his relatives he reigneth even like Indra himself. The
+king is happy with his sons who are all obedient to him and hath no grief.
+The illustrious monarch is bent on his own aggrandisement. The king of the
+Kurus hath commanded me to enquire after thy peace and prosperity, and to
+ask thee to repair to Hastinapore with thy brothers and to say, after
+beholding king Dhritarashtra's newly erected palace, whether that one is
+equal to thy own. Repairing thither, O son of Pritha, with thy brothers,
+enjoy ye in that mansion and sit to a friendly match at dice. We shall be
+glad if thou goest, as the Kurus have already arrived there. And thou wilt
+see there those gamblers and cheats that the illustrious king
+Dhritarashtra hath already brought thither. It is for this, O king, that I
+have come hither. Let the king's command be approved by thee.'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'O Kshatta, if we sit to a match at dice, we may
+quarrel. What man is there, who knowing all this, will consent to gamble?
+What dost thou think fit for us? We all are obedient to thy counsels.'
+
+"Vidura said,--'I know that gambling is the root of misery, and I strove
+to dissuade the king from it. The king, however, hath sent me to thee.
+Having known all this, O learned one, do what is beneficial.'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'Besides the sons of Dhritarashtra what other
+dishonest gamblers are there ready for play? Tell us, O Vidura, who they
+are and with whom we shall have to play, staking hundreds upon hundreds of
+our possessions.'
+
+"Vidura said,--'O monarch, Sakuni, the king of Gandhara, an adept at dice,
+having great skill of hand and desperate in stakes, Vivingati, king
+Chitrasena, Satyavrata, Purumitra and Jaya, these, O king, are there.'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'It would seem then that some of the most desperate
+and terrible gamblers always depending upon deceit are there. This whole
+universe, however, is at the will of its Maker, under the control of fate.
+It is not free. O learned one, I do not desire, at the command of king
+Dhritarashtra to engage myself in gambling. The father always wisheth to
+benefit his son. Thou art our master, O Vidura. Tell me what is proper for
+us. Unwilling as I am to gamble, I will not do so, if the wicked Sakuni
+doth not summon me to it in the Sabha? If, however, he challengeth me, I
+will never refuse. For that, as settled, is my eternal vow.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"King Yudhishthira the just having said this unto
+Vidura, commanded that preparations for his journey might be made without
+loss of time. And the next day, the king accompanied by his relatives and
+attendants and taking with him also the women of the household with
+Draupadi in their midst, set out for the capital of the Kurus. 'Like some
+brilliant body falling before the eyes, Fate depriveth us of reason, and
+man, tied as it were with a cord, submitteth to the sway of Providence,'
+saying this, king Yudhishthira, that chastiser of the foe, set out with
+Kshatta, without deliberating upon that summons from Dhritarashtra. And
+that slayer of hostile heroes, the son of Pandu and Pritha, riding upon
+the car that had been given him by the king of Valhika, and attired also
+in royal robes, set out with his brothers. And the king, blazing as it
+were with royal splendour, with Brahmanas walking before him, set out from
+his city, summoned by Dhritarashtra and impelled by what hath been
+ordained by Kala (Time). And arriving at Hastinapore he went to the palace
+of Dhritarashtra. And going there, the son of Pandu approached the king.
+And the exalted one then approached Bhishma and Drona and Karna, and Kripa,
+and the son of Drona, and embraced and was embraced by them all. And the
+mighty-armed one, endued with great prowess, then approached Somadatta,
+and then Duryodhana and Salya, and the son of Suvala, and those other
+kings also that had arrived there before him. The king then went to the
+brave Dusshasana and then to all his (other) brothers and then to
+Jayadratha and next to all the Kurus one after another. And the mighty-
+armed one, then surrounded by all his brothers, entered the apartment of
+the wise king Dhritarashtra. And then Yudhishthira beheld the reverend
+Gandhari, ever obedient to her lord, and surrounded by her daughters-in-
+law like Rohini by the stars. And saluting Gandhari and blessed by her in
+return, the king then beheld his old uncle, that illustrious monarch whose
+wisdom was his eye. King Dhritarashtra then, O monarch, smelt his head as
+also the heads of those four other princes of the Kuru race, viz., the
+sons of Pandu with Bhimasena as their eldest. And, O king, beholding the
+handsome Pandava those tigers among men, all the Kurus became exceedingly
+glad. And commanded by the king, the Pandavas then retired to the chambers
+allotted to them and which were all furnished with jewels and gems. And
+when they had retired into the chambers, the women of Dhritarashtra's
+household with Dussala taking the lead visited them. And the daughters-in-
+law of Dhritarashtra beholding the blazing and splendid beauty and
+prosperity of Yajnaseni, became cheerless and filled with jealousy. And
+those tigers among men, having conversed with the ladies went through
+their daily physical exercises and then performed the religious rites of
+the day. And having finished their daily devotions, they decked their
+persons with sandal paste of the most fragrant kind. And desiring to
+secure good luck and prosperity they caused (by gifts) the Brahmanas to
+utter benedictions. And then eating food that was of the best taste they
+retired to their chambers for the night. And those bulls among the Kurus
+then were put to sleep with music by handsome females. And obtaining from
+them what came in due succession, those subjugators of hostile towns
+passed with cheerful hearts that delightful night in pleasure and sport.
+And waked by the bards with sweet music, they rose from their beds, and
+having passed the night thus in happiness, they rose at dawn and having
+gone through the usual rites, they entered into the assembly house and
+were saluted by those that were ready there for gambling."
+
+
+SECTION LVIII
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"The sons of Pritha with Yudhishthira at their head,
+having entered that assembly house, approached all the kings that were
+present there. And worshipping all those that deserved to be worshipped,
+and saluting others as each deserved according to age, they seated
+themselves on seats that were clean and furnished with costly carpets.
+After they had taken their seats, as also all the kings, Sakuni the son of
+Suvala addressed Yudhishthira and said, 'O king, the assembly is full. All
+had been waiting for thee. Let, therefore, the dice be cast and the rules
+of play be fixed, O Yudhishthira.'
+
+"Yudhishthira replied, 'Deceitful gambling is sinful. There is no
+Kshatriya prowess in it. There is certainly no morality in it. Why, then,
+O king, dost thou praise gambling so? The wise applaud not the pride that
+gamesters feel in deceitful play. O Sakuni, vanquish us, not like a wretch,
+by deceitful means.'
+
+"Sakuni said,--'That high-souled player who knoweth the secrets of winning
+and losing, who is skilled in baffling the deceitful arts of his confrere,
+who is united in all the diverse operations of which gambling consisteth,
+truly knoweth the play, and he suffereth all in course of it. O son of
+Pritha, it is the staking at dice, which may be lost or won that may
+injure us. And it is for that reason that gambling is regarded as a fault.
+Let us, therefore, O king, begin the play. Fear not. Let the stakes be
+fixed. Delay not!'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'That best of Munis, Devala, the son of Asita, who
+always instructeth us about all those acts that may lead to heaven, hell,
+or the other regions, hath said, that it is sinful to play deceitfully
+with a gamester. To obtain victory in battle without cunning or stratagem
+is the best sport. Gambling, however, as a sport, is not so. Those that
+are respectable never use the language of the Mlechchas, nor do they adopt
+deceitfulness in their behaviour. War carried on without crookedness and
+cunning, this is the act of men that are honest. Do not, O Sakuni, playing
+desperately, win of us that wealth with which according to our abilities,
+we strive to learn how to benefit the Brahmanas. Even enemies should not
+be vanquished by desperate stakes in deceitful play. I do not desire
+either happiness or wealth by means of cunning. The conduct of one that is
+a gamester, even if it be without deceitfulness, should not be applauded.'
+
+"Sakuni said,--'O Yudhishthira, it is from a desire of winning, which is
+not a very honest motive, that one high-born person approacheth another
+(in a contest of race superiority). So also it is from a desire of
+defeating, which is not a very honest motive, that one learned person
+approacheth another (in a contest of learning). Such motives, however, are
+scarcely regarded as really dishonest. So also, O Yudhishthira, a person
+skilled at dice approacheth one that is not so skilled from a desire of
+vanquishing him. One also who is conversant with the truths of science
+approacheth another that is not from desire of victory, which is scarcely
+an honest motive. But (as I have already said) such a motive is not really
+dishonest. And, O Yudhishthira, so also one that is skilled in weapons
+approacheth one that is not so skilled; the strong approacheth the weak.
+This is the practice in every contest. The motive is victory, O
+Yudhishthira. If, therefore, thou, in approaching me, regardest me to be
+actuated by motives that are dishonest, if thou art under any fear, desist
+then from play.'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'Summoned, I do not withdraw. This is my established
+vow. And, O king, Fate is all powerful. We all are under the control of
+Destiny. With whom in this assembly am I to play? Who is there that can
+stake equally with me? Let the play begin.'
+
+"Duryodhana said,--'O monarch, I shall supply jewels and gems and every
+kind of wealth. And it is for me that this Sakuni, my uncle, will play.'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'Gambling for one's sake by the agency of another
+seemeth to me to be contrary to rule. Thou also, O learned one, will admit
+this. If, however, thou art still bent on it, let the play begin.'"
+
+
+SECTION LIX
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"When the play commenced, all those kings with
+Dhritarashtra at their head took their seats in that assembly. And, O
+Bharata, Bhishma and Drona and Kripa and the high-souled Vidura with
+cheerless hearts sat behind. And those kings with leonine necks and endued
+with great energy took their seats separately and in pairs upon many
+elevated seats of beautiful make and colour. And, O king, that mansion
+looked resplendent with those assembled kings like heaven itself with a
+conclave of the celestials of great good fortune. And they were all
+conversant with the Vedas and brave and of resplendent countenances. And,
+O great king, the friendly match at dice then commenced.
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'O king, this excellent wealth of pearls of great
+value, procured from the ocean by churning it (of old), so beautiful and
+decked with pure gold, this, O king, is my stake. What is thy counter
+stake, O great king,--the wealth with which thou wishest to play with me?'
+
+"Duryodhana said,--'I have many jewels and much wealth. But I am not vain
+of them. Win thou this stake.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Then Sakuni, well-skilled at dice, took up the
+dice and (casting them) said unto Yudhishthira, 'Lo, I have won!'
+
+
+SECTION LX
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'Thou hast won this stake of me by unfair means. But
+be not so proud, O Sakuni. Let us play staking thousands upon thousands. I
+have many beautiful jars each full of a thousand Nishkas in my treasury,
+inexhaustible gold, and much silver and other minerals. This, O king, is
+the wealth with which I will stake with thee!'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Thus addressed, Sakuni said unto the chief of
+the perpetuators of the Kuru race, the eldest of the sons of Pandu, king
+Yudhishthira, of glory incapable of sustaining any diminution. 'Lo, I have
+won!'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'This my sacred and victorious and royal car which
+gladdeneth the heart and hath carried us hither, which is equal unto a
+thousand cars, which is of symmetrical proportions and covered with tiger-
+skin, and furnished with excellent wheels and flag-staffs which is
+handsome, and decked with strings of little bells, whose clatter is even
+like the roar of the clouds or of the ocean, and which is drawn by eight
+noble steeds known all over the kingdom and which are white as the moon-
+beam and from whose hoofs no terrestrial creature can escape--this, O king,
+is my wealth with which I will stake with thee!'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Hearing these words, Sakuni ready with the dice,
+and adopting unfair means, said unto Yudhishthira, 'Lo, I have won!'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'I have a hundred thousand serving-girls, all young,
+and decked with golden bracelets on their wrists and upper arms, and with
+nishkas round their necks and other ornaments, adorned with costly
+garlands and attired in rich robes, daubed with the sandal paste, wearing
+jewels and gold, and well-skilled in the four and sixty elegant arts,
+especially versed in dancing and singing, and who wait upon and serve at
+my command the celestials, the Snataka Brahmanas, and kings. With this
+wealth, O king, I will stake with thee!'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Hearing these words, Sakuni ready with the dice,
+adopting unfair means, said unto Yudhishthira. 'Lo, I have won!'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'I have thousands of serving-men, skilled in waiting
+upon guests, always attired in silken robes, endued with wisdom and
+intelligence, their senses under control though young, and decked with ear-
+rings, and who serve all guests night and day with plates and dishes in
+hand. With this wealth, O king, I will stake with thee!'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Hearing these words, Sakuni, ready with the dice,
+adopting unfair means said unto Yudhishthira, 'Lo, I have won!'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'I have, O son of Suvala, one thousand musty
+elephants with golden girdles, decked with ornaments, with the mark of the
+lotus on their temples and necks and other parts, adorned with golden
+garlands, with fine white tusks long and thick as plough-shafts, worthy of
+carrying kings on their backs, capable of bearing every kind of noise on
+the field of battle, with huge bodies, capable of battering down the walls
+of hostile towns, of the colour of new-formed clouds, and each possessing
+eight she-elephants. With this wealth, O king, I will stake with thee.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Unto Yudhishthira who had said so, Sakuni, the
+son of Suvala, laughingly said, 'Lo, I have won it!'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'I have as many cars as elephants, all furnished with
+golden poles and flag-staffs and well-trained horses and warriors that
+fight wonderfully and each of whom receiveth a thousand coins as his
+monthly pay whether he fighteth or not. With this wealth, O king, I will
+stake with thee!'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"When these words had been spoken, the wretch
+Sakuni, pledged to enmity, said unto Yudhishthira, 'Lo, I have won it.'
+
+"Yudhishthira said.--'The steeds of the Tittiri, Kalmasha, and Gandharva
+breeds, decked with ornaments, which Chitraratha having been vanquished in
+battle and subdued cheerfully gave unto Arjuna, the wielder of the Gandiva.
+With this wealth, O king, I will stake with thee.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued, "Hearing this, Sakuni, ready at dice, adopting
+unfair means, said unto Yudhishthira: 'Lo, I have won!'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'I have ten thousand cars and vehicles unto which are
+yoked draught animals of the foremost breed. And I have also sixty
+thousand warriors picked from each order by thousands, who are all brave
+and endued with prowess like heroes, who drink milk and eat good rice, and
+all of whom have broad chests. With this wealth, O king, I will stake with
+thee.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Hearing this, Sakuni ready at dice, adopting
+unfair means said unto Yudhishthira, 'Lo, I have won!'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'I have four hundred Nidis (jewels of great value)
+encased in sheets of copper and iron. Each one of them is equal to five
+draunikas of the costliest and purest leaf gold of the Jatarupa kind. With
+this wealth, O king, I will stake with thee.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Hearing this, Sakuni ready at dice, adopting
+foul means, said unto Yudhishthira, 'Lo, I have won it!'"
+
+
+SECTION LXI
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"During the course of this gambling, certain to bring
+about utter ruin (on Yudhishthira), Vidura, that dispeller of all doubts,
+(addressing Dhritarashtra) said, 'O great king, O thou of the Bharata race,
+attend to what I say, although my words may not be agreeable to thee, like
+medicine to one that is ill and about to breathe his last. When this
+Duryodhana of sinful mind had, immediately after his birth, cried
+discordantly like a jackal, it was well known that he had been ordained to
+bring about the destruction of the Bharata race. Know, O king, that he
+will be the cause of death of ye all. A jackal is living in thy house, O
+king, in the form of Duryodhana. Thou knowest it not in consequence of thy
+folly. Listen now to the words of the Poet (Sukra) which I will quote.
+They that collect honey (in mountains), having received what they seek, do
+not notice that they are about to fall. Ascending dangerous heights,
+abstracted in the pursuit of what they seek, they fall down and meet with
+destruction. This Duryodhana also, maddened with the play at dice, like
+the collector of honey, abstracted in what he seeketh, marketh not the
+consequences. Making enemies of these great warriors, he beholdeth not the
+fall that is before him. It is known to thee, O thou of great wisdom, that
+amongst the Bhojas, they abandoned, for the good of the citizens a son
+that was unworthy of their race. The Andhakas, the Yadavas, and the Bhojas
+uniting together, abandoned Kansa. And afterwards, when at the command of
+the whole tribe, the same Kansa had been slain by Krishna that slayer of
+foes, all the men of the tribe became exceedingly happy for a hundred
+years. So at thy command, let Arjuna slay this Suyodhana. And in
+consequence of the slaying of this wretch, let the Kurus be glad and pass
+their days in happiness. In exchange of a crow, O great king, buy these
+peacocks--the Pandavas; and in exchange of a jackal, buy these tigers. For
+the sake of a family a member may be sacrificed; for the sake of a village
+a family may be sacrificed, for the sake of a province a village may be
+sacrificed and for the sake of one's own soul the whole earth may be
+sacrificed. Even this was what the omniscient Kavya himself, acquainted
+with the thoughts of every creature, and a source of terror unto all foes,
+said unto the great Asuras to induce them to abandon Jambha at the moment
+of his birth. It is said that a certain king, having caused a number of
+wild birds that vomited gold to take up their quarters in his own house,
+afterwards killed them from temptation. O slayer of foes, blinded by
+temptation and the desire of enjoyment, for the sake of gold, the king
+destroyed at the same time both his present and future gains. Therefore, O
+king, prosecute not the Pandavas from desire of profit, even like the king
+in story. For then, blinded by folly thou wilt have to repent afterwards,
+even like the person that killed the birds. Like a flower-seller that
+plucketh (many flowers) in the garden from trees that he cherisheth with
+affection from day to day, continue, O Bharata, to pluck flowers day by
+day from the Pandavas. Do not scorch them to their roots like a fire-
+producing breeze that reduceth everything to black charcoal. Go not, O
+king, unto the region of Yama, with thy sons and troops, for who is there
+that is capable of fighting with the sons of Pritha, together? Not to
+speak of others, is the chief of the celestials at the head of the
+celestials themselves, capable of doing so?'
+
+
+SECTION LXII
+
+"Vidura said,--'Gambling is the root of dissensions. It bringeth about
+disunion. Its consequences are frightful. Yet having recourse to this,
+Dhritarashtra's son Duryodhana createth for himself fierce enmity. The
+descendants of Pratipa and Santanu, with their fierce troops and their
+allies the Vahlikas, will, for the sins of Duryodhana meet with
+destruction. Duryodhana, in consequence of this intoxication, forcibly
+driveth away luck and prosperity from his kingdom, even like an infuriate
+bull breaking his own horns himself. That brave and learned person who
+disregarding his own foresight, followeth, O king, (the bent of) another
+man's heart, sinketh in terrible affliction even like one that goeth into
+the sea in a boat guided by a child. Duryodhana is gambling with the son
+of Pandu, and thou art in raptures that he is winning. And it is such
+success that begeteth war, which endeth in the destruction of men. This
+fascination (of gambling) that thou has well-devised only leadeth to dire
+results. Thus hast thou simply brought on by these counsels great
+affliction to thy heart. And this thy quarrel with Yudhishthira, who is so
+closely related to thee, even if thou hadst not foreseen it, is still
+approved by thee. Listen, ye sons of Santanu, ye descendants of Pratipa,
+who are now in this assembly of the Kauravas, to these words of wisdom.
+Enter ye not into the terrible fire that hath blazed forth following the
+wretch. When Ajatasatru, the son of Pandu, intoxicated with dice, giveth
+way to his wrath, and Vrikodara and Arjuna and the twins (do the same),
+who, in that hour of confusion, will prove your refuge? O great king, thou
+art thyself a mine of wealth. Thou canst earn (by other means) as much
+wealth as thou seekest to earn by gambling. What dost thou gain by winning
+from the Pandavas their vast wealth? Win the Pandavas themselves, who will
+be to thee more than all the wealth they have. We all know the skill of
+Suvala in play. This hill-king knoweth many nefarious methods in gambling.
+Let Sakuni return whence he came. War not, O Bharata, with the sons of
+Pandu!'
+
+
+SECTION LXIII
+
+"Duryodhana said,--'O Kshatta, thou art always boasting of the fame of our
+enemies, deprecating the sons of Dhritarashtra. We know, O Vidura, of whom
+thou art really fond. Thou always disregardest us as children. That man
+standeth contest, who wisheth for success unto those that are near to him
+and defeat unto those that are not his favourites. His praise and blame
+are applied accordingly. Thy tongue and mind betray thy heart. But the
+hostility thou showeth in speech is even greater than what is in thy heart.
+Thou hast been cherished by us like a serpent on our lap. Like a cat thou
+wishest evil unto him that cherisheth thee. The wise have said that there
+is no sin graver than that of injuring one's master. How is it, O Kshatta,
+that thou dost not fear this sin? Having vanquished our enemies we have
+obtained great advantages. Use not harsh words in respect of us. Thou art
+always willing to make peace with the foes. And it is for this reason that
+thou hatest us always. A man becometh a foe by speaking words that are
+unpardonable. Then again in praising the enemy, the secrets of one's own
+party should not be divulged. (Thou however, transgressest this rule).
+Therefore, O thou parasite, why dost thou obstruct us so? Thou sayest
+whatever thou wishest. Insult us not. We know thy mind. Go and learn
+sitting at the feet of the old. Keen up the reputation that thou hast won.
+Meddle not with the affairs of other men. Do not imagine that thou art our
+chief. Tell us not harsh words always, O Vidura. We do not ask thee what
+is for our good. Cease, irritate not those that have already borne too
+much at thy hands. There is only one Controller, no second. He controlleth
+even the child that is in the mother's womb. I am controlled by Him. Like
+water that always floweth in a downward course, I am acting precisely in
+the way in which He is directing me. He that breaketh his head against a
+stone-wall, and he that feedeth a serpent, are guided in those acts of
+theirs by their own intellect. (Therefore, in this matter I am guided by
+my own intelligence). He becometh a foe who seeketh to control others by
+force. When advice, however, is offered in a friendly spirit, the learned
+bear with it. He again that hath set fire to such a highly inflammable
+object as camphor, beholdeth not its ashes, if he runneth immediately to
+extinguish it. One should not give shelter to another who is the friend of
+his foes, or to another who is ever jealous of his protector or to another
+who is evil-minded. Therefore, O Vidura, go whither-so-ever thou pleasest.
+A wife that is unchaste, however well-treated, forsaketh her husband yet.'
+
+"Vidura addressing Dhritarashtra, said, 'O monarch, tell us (impartially)
+like a witness what thou thinkest of the conduct of those who abandon
+their serving-men thus for giving instruction to them. The hearts of kings
+are, indeed, very fickle. Granting protection at first, they strike with
+clubs at last. O prince (Duryodhana), thou regardest thyself as mature in
+intellect, and, O thou of bad heart, thou regardest me as a child. But
+consider that he is a child who having first accepted one for a friend,
+subsequently findeth fault with him. An evil-hearted man can never be
+brought to the path of rectitude, like an unchaste wife in the house of a
+well-born person. Assuredly, instruction is not agreeable to this bull of
+the Bharata race like a husband of sixty years to a damsel that is young.
+After this, O king, if thou wishest to hear words that are agreeable to
+thee, in respect of all acts good or bad, ask thou women and idiots and
+cripples or persons of that description. A sinful man speaking words that
+are agreeable may be had in this world. But a speaker of words that are
+disagreeable though sound as regimen, or a hearer of the same, is very
+rare. He indeed, is a king's true ally who disregarding what is agreeable
+or disagreeable to his master beareth himself virtuously and uttereth what
+may be disagreeable but necessary as regimen. O great king, drink thou
+that which the honest drink and the dishonest shun, even humility, which
+is like a medicine that is bitter, pungent, burning, unintoxicating,
+disagreeable, and revolting. And drinking it, O king, regain thou thy
+sobriety. I always wish Dhritarashtra and his sons affluence and fame.
+Happen what may unto thee, here I bow to thee (and take my leave). Let the
+Brahmanas wish me well. O son of Kuru, this is the lesson I carefully
+inculcate, that the wise should never enrage such as adders as have venom
+in their very glances!'
+
+
+SECTION LXIV
+
+"Sakuni said,--'Thou hast, O Yudhishthira, lost much wealth of the
+Pandavas. If thou hast still anything that thou hast not yet lost to us, O
+son of Kunti, tell us what it is!'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'O son of Suvala, I know that I have untold wealth.
+But why is it, O Sakuni, that thou askest me of my wealth? Let tens of
+thousands and millions and millions and tens of millions and hundreds of
+millions and tens of billions and hundreds of billions and trillions and
+tens of trillions and hundreds of trillions and tens of quadrillions and
+hundreds of quadrillions and even more wealth be staked by thee. I have as
+much. With that wealth, O king, I will play with thee.'"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Hearing this, Sakuni, ready with the dice, adopting
+unfair means, said unto Yudhishthira, 'Lo, I have won!'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'I have, O son of Suvala, immeasurable kine and
+horses and milch cows with calves and goats and sheep in the country
+extending from the Parnasa to the eastern bank of the Sindu. With this
+wealth, O king, I will play with thee.'"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Hearing this Sakuni, ready with the dice, adopting
+unfair means, said unto Yudhishthira, 'Lo, I have won!'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'I have my city, the country, land, the wealth of all
+dwelling therein except of the Brahmanas, and all those persons themselves
+except Brahmanas still remaining to me. With this wealth, O king, I will
+play with thee.'"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Hearing this, Sakuni, ready with the dice, adopting
+foul means, said unto Yudhishthira, 'Lo! I have won.'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'These princes here, O king, who look resplendent in
+their ornaments and their ear-rings and Nishkas and all the royal
+ornaments on their persons are now my wealth. With this wealth, O king, I
+play with thee.'"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Hearing this, Sakuni, ready with his dice, adopting
+foul means, said unto Yudhishthira, 'Lo! I have won them.'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'This Nakula here, of mighty arms and leonine neck,
+of red eyes and endued with youth, is now my one stake. Know that he is my
+wealth.'
+
+"Sakuni said,--'O king Yudhishthira, prince Nakula is dear to thee. He is
+already under our subjection. With whom (as stake) wilt thou now play?'"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Saying this, Sakuni cast those dice, and said unto
+Yudhishthira, 'Lo! He hath been won by us.'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'This Sahadeva administereth justice. He hath also
+acquired a reputation for learning in this world. However undeserving he
+may be to be staked in play, with him as stake I will play, with such a
+dear object as it, indeed, he were not so!'"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Hearing this, Sakuni, ready with the dice, adopting
+foul means, said unto Yudhishthira, 'Lo! I have won.'
+
+"Sakuni continued,--'O king, the sons of Madri, dear unto thee, have both
+been won by me. It would seem, however, that Bhimasena and Dhananjaya are
+regarded very much by thee.'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'Wretch! thou actest sinfully in thus seeking to
+create disunion amongst us who are all of one heart, disregarding
+morality.'
+
+"Sakuni said,--'One that is intoxicated falleth into a pit (hell) and
+stayeth there deprived of the power of motion. Thou art, O king, senior to
+us in age, and possessed of the highest accomplishments. O bull of the
+Bharata race, I (beg my pardon and) bow to thee. Thou knowest, O
+Yudhishthira, that gamesters, while excited with play, utter such ravings
+that they never indulge in the like of them in their waking moments nor
+even in dream.'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'He that taketh us like a boat to the other shore of
+the sea of battle, he that is ever victorious over foes, the prince who is
+endued with great activity, he who is the one hero in this world, (is
+here). With that Falguna as stake, however, undeserving of being made so,
+I will now play with thee.'"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Hearing this, Sakuni, ready with the dice, adopting
+foul means, said unto Yudhishthira, 'Lo! I have won.'
+
+"Sakuni continued,--'This foremost of all wielders of the bow, this son of
+Pandu capable of using both his hands with equal activity hath now been
+won by me. O play now with the wealth that is still left unto thee, even
+with Bhima thy dear brother, as thy stake, O son of Pandu.'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'O king, however undeserving he may be of being made
+a stake, I will now play with thee by staking Bhimasena, that prince who
+is our leader, who is the foremost in fight,--even like the wielder of the
+thunder-bolt--the one enemy of the Danavas,--the high-souled one with
+leonine neck and arched eye-brows and eyes looking askance, who is
+incapable of putting up with an insult, who hath no equal in might in the
+world, who is the foremost of all wielders of the mace, and who grindeth
+all foes,'"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Hearing this, Sakuni, ready with the dice adopting
+foul means, said unto Yudhishthira. 'Lo! I have won.'
+
+"Sakuni continued,--'Thou hast, O son of Kunti, lost much wealth,
+horses and elephants and thy brothers as well. Say, if thou hast
+anything which thou hast not lost.'
+
+"Yudhishthira, said--'I alone, the eldest of all my brothers and dear unto
+them, am still unwon. Won by thee, I will do what he that is won will have
+to do.'"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Hearing this Sakuni, ready with the dice, adopting
+foul means, said unto Yudhishthira, 'Lo! I have won.'
+
+"Sakuni continued,--'Thou hast permitted thyself to be won. This is very
+sinful. There is wealth still left to thee, O king. Therefore, thy having
+lost thyself is certainly sinful.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Having said this, Sakuni, well-skilled at dice,
+spoke unto all the brave kings present there of his having won, one after
+another, all the Pandavas. The son of Suvala then, addressing Yudhishthira
+said,--'O king, there is still one stake dear to thee that is still unwon.
+Stake thou Krishna, the princess of Panchala. By her, win thyself back.'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'With Draupadi as stake, who is neither short nor
+tall, neither spare nor corpulent, and who is possessed of blue curly
+locks, I will now play with thee. Possessed of eyes like the leaves of the
+autumn lotus, and fragrant also as the autumn lotus, equal in beauty unto
+her (Lakshmi) who delighteth in autumn lotuses, and unto Sree herself in
+symmetry and every grace she is such a woman as a man may desire for wife
+in respect of softness of heart, and wealth of beauty and of virtues.
+Possessed of every accomplishment and compassionate and sweet-speeched,
+she is such a woman as a man may desire for wife in respect of her fitness
+for the acquisition of virtue and pleasure and wealth. Retiring to bed
+last and waking up first, she looketh after all down to the cowherds and
+the shepherds. Her face too, when covered with sweat, looketh as the lotus
+or the jasmine. Of slender waist like that of the wasp, of long flowing
+locks, of red lips, and body without down, is the princess of Panchala. O
+king, making the slender-waisted Draupadi, who is even such as my stake, I
+will play with thee, O son of Suvala.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"When the intelligent king Yudhishthira the just
+has spoken thus,--'Fie!' 'Fie!' were the words that were uttered by all
+the aged persons that were in the assembly. And the whole conclave was
+agitated, and the kings who were present there all gave way to grief. And
+Bhishma and Drona and Kripa were covered with perspiration. And Vidura
+holding his head between his hands sat like one that had lost his reason.
+He sat with face downwards giving way to his reflections and sighing like
+a snake. But Dhritarashtra glad at heart, asked repeatedly, 'Hath the
+stake been won?' 'Hath the stake been won?' and could not conceal his
+emotions. Karna with Dussassana and others laughed aloud, while tears
+began to flow from the eyes of all other present in the assembly. And the
+son of Suvala, proud of success and flurried with excitement and repeating.
+Thou hast one stake, dear to thee, etc. said,--'Lo! I have won' and took
+up the dice that had been cast.
+
+
+SECTION LXV
+
+"Duryodhana said,--'Come, Kshatta, bring hither Draupadi the dear and loved
+wife of the Pandavas. Let her sweep the chambers, force her thereto, and
+let the unfortunate one stay where our serving-women are.'
+
+"Vidura said,--'Dost thou not know, O wretch, that by uttering such harsh
+words thou art tying thyself with cords? Dost thou not understand that
+thou art hanging on the edge of a precipice? Dost thou not know that being
+a deer thou provokest so many tigers to rage? Snakes of deadly venom,
+provoked to ire, are on thy head! Wretch, do not further provoke them lest
+thou goest to the region of Yama. In my judgement, slavery does not attach
+to Krishna, in as much as she was staked by the King after he had lost
+himself and ceased to be his own master. Like the bamboo that beareth
+fruit only when it is about to die, the son of Dhritarashtra winneth this
+treasure at play. Intoxicated, he perceiveth not in these his last moments
+that dice bring about enmity and frightful terrors. No man should utter
+harsh speeches and pierce the hearts of the others. No man should
+subjugate his enemies by dice and such other foul means. No one should
+utter such words as are disapproved by the Vedas and lead to hell and
+annoy others. Some one uttereth from his lips words that are harsh. Stung
+by them another burneth day and night. These words pierce the very heart
+of another. The learned, therefore, should never utter them, pointing them
+at others. A goat had once swallowed a hook, and when it was pierced with
+it, the hunter placing the head of the animal on the ground tore its
+throat frightfully in drawing it out. Therefore, O Duryodhana, swallow not
+the wealth of the Pandavas. Make them not thy enemies. The sons of Pritha
+never use words such as these. It is only low men that are like dogs who
+use harsh words towards all classes of people, viz., those that have
+retired to the woods, those leading domestic lives, those employed in
+ascetic devotions and those that are of great learning. Alas! the son of
+Dhritarashtra knoweth not that dishonesty is one of the frightful doors of
+hell. Alas! many of the Kurus with Dussasana amongst them have followed
+him in the path of dishonesty in the matter of this play at dice. Even
+gourds may sink and stones may float, and boats also may always sink in
+water, still this foolish king, the son of Dhritarashtra, listeneth not to
+my words that are even as regimen unto him. Without doubt, he will be the
+cause of the destruction of the Kurus. When the words of wisdom spoken by
+friends and which are even as fit regimen are not listened to, but on the
+other hand temptation is on the increase, a frightful and universal
+destruction is sure to overtake all the Kurus.'"
+
+
+SECTION LXVI
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Intoxicated with pride, the son of Dhritarashtra
+spake,--'Fie on Kshatta! and casting his eyes upon the Pratikamin in
+attendance, commanded him, in the midst of all those reverend seniors,
+saying,--'Go Pratikamin, and bring thou Draupadi hither. Thou hast no fear
+from the sons of Pandu. It is Vidura alone that raveth in fear. Besides,
+he never wisheth our prosperity!'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Thus commanded, the Pratikamin, who was of the
+Suta caste, hearing the words of the king, proceeded with haste, and
+entering the abode of the Pandavas, like a dog in a lion's den, approached
+the queen of the sons of Pandu. And he said,--'Yudhishthira having been
+intoxicated with dice, Duryodhana, O Draupadi, hath won thee. Come now,
+therefore, to the abode of Dhritarashtra. I will take thee, O Yajnaseni,
+and put thee in some menial work.'
+
+"Draupadi said,--'Why, O Pratikamin, dost thou say so? What prince is there
+who playeth staking his wife? The king was certainly intoxicated with dice.
+Else, could he not find any other object to stake?'
+
+"The Pratikamin said,--'When he had nothing else to stake, it was then
+that Ajatasatru, the son of Pandu, staked thee. The king had first staked
+his brothers, then himself, and then thee, O princess.'
+
+"Draupadi said,--'O son of the Suta race, go, and ask that gambler present
+in the assembly, whom he hath lost first, himself, or me. Ascertaining
+this, come hither, and then take me with thee, O son of the Suta race.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"The messenger coming back to the assembly told
+all present the words of Draupadi. And he spoke unto Yudhishthira sitting
+in the midst of the kings, these words,--'Draupadi hath asked thee, Whose
+lord wert thou at the time thou lost me in play? Didst thou lose thyself
+first or me?' Yudhishthira, however sat there like one demented and
+deprived of reason and gave no answer good or ill to the Suta.
+
+"Duryodhana then said,--'Let the princess of Panchala come hither and put
+her question. Let every one hear in this assembly the words that pass
+between her and Yudhishthira.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"The messenger, obedient to the command of
+Duryodhana, going once again to the palace, himself much distressed, said
+unto Draupadi,--'O princess, they that are in the assembly are summoning
+thee. It seemeth that the end of the Kauravas is at hand. When Duryodhana,
+O princess, is for taking thee before the assembly, this weak-brained king
+will no longer be able to protect his prosperity.'
+
+"Draupadi said,--'The great ordainer of the world hath, indeed, ordained
+so. Happiness and misery pay their court to both the wise and unwise.
+Morality, however, it hath been said, is the one highest object in the
+world. If cherished, that will certainly dispense blessings to us. Let not
+that morality now abandon the Kauravas. Going back to those that are
+present in that assembly, repeat these my words consonant with morality. I
+am ready to do what those elderly and virtuous persons conversant with
+morality will definitely tell me.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"The Suta, hearing these words of Yajnaseni, came
+back to the assembly and repeated the words of Draupadi. But all sat with
+faces downwards, uttering not a word, knowing the eagerness and resolution
+of Dhritarashtra's son.
+
+"Yudhishthira, however, O bull of the Bharata race, hearing of
+Duryodhana's intentions, sent a trusted messenger unto Draupadi, directing
+that although she was attired in one piece of cloth with her navel itself
+exposed, in consequence of her season having come, she should come before
+her father-in-law weeping bitterly. And that intelligent messenger, O king,
+having gone to Draupadi's abode with speed, informed her of the intentions
+of Yudhishthira. The illustrious Pandavas, meanwhile, distressed and
+sorrowful, and bound by promise, could not settle what they should do. And
+casting his eyes upon them, king Duryodhana, glad at heart, addressed the
+Suta and said,--'O Pratikamin, bring her hither. Let the Kauravas answer
+her question before her face.' The Suta, then, obedient to his commands,
+but terrified at the (possible) wrath of the daughter of Drupada,
+disregarding his reputation for intelligence, once again said to those
+that were in the assembly,--'what shall I say unto Krishna?'
+
+"Duryodhana, hearing this, said,--'O Dussasana, this son of my Suta, of
+little intelligence, feareth Vrikodara. Therefore, go thou thyself and
+forcibly bring hither the daughter of Yajnasena. Our enemies at present
+are dependent on our will. What can they do thee?' Hearing the command of
+his brother, prince Dussasana rose with blood-red eyes, and entering the
+abode of those great warriors, spake these words unto the princess, 'Come,
+come, O Krishna, princess of Panchala, thou hast been won by us. And O
+thou of eyes large as lotus leaves, come now and accept the Kurus for thy
+lords. Thou hast been won virtuously, come to the assembly.' At these
+words, Draupadi, rising up in great affliction, rubbed her pale face with
+her hands, and distressed she ran to the place where the ladies of
+Dhritarashtra's household were. At this, Dussasana roaring in anger, ran
+after her and seized the queen by her locks, so long and blue and wavy.
+Alas! those locks that had been sprinkled with water sanctified with
+mantras in the great Rajasuya sacrifice, were now forcibly seized by the
+son of Dhritarashtra disregarding the prowess of the Pandavas. And
+Dussasana dragging Krishna of long long locks unto the presence of the
+assembly--as if she were helpless though having powerful protectors--and
+pulling at her, made her tremble like the banana plant in a storm. And
+dragged by him, with body bent, she faintly cried--'Wretch! it ill
+behoveth thee to take me before the assembly. My season hath come, and I
+am now clad in one piece of attire.' But Dussasana dragging Draupadi
+forcibly by her black locks while she was praying piteously unto Krishna
+and Vishnu who were Narayana and Nara (on earth), said unto her--'Whether
+thy season hath come or not, whether thou art attired in one piece of
+cloth or entirely naked, when thou hast been won at dice and made our
+slave, thou art to live amongst our serving-women as thou pleasest.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"With hair dishevelled and half her attire
+loosened, all the while dragged by Dussasana, the modest Krishna consumed
+with anger, faintly said--'In this assembly are persons conversant with
+all the branches of learning devoted to the performance of sacrifices and
+other rites, and all equal unto Indra, persons some of whom are really my
+superiors and others who deserve to be respected as such. I can not stay
+before them in this state. O wretch! O thou of cruel deeds, drag me not so.
+Uncover me not so. The princes (my lords) will not pardon thee, even if
+thou hast the gods themselves with Indra as thy allies. The illustrious
+son of Dharma is now bound by the obligations of morality. Morality,
+however, is subtle. Those only that are possessed of great clearness of
+vision can ascertain it. In speech even I am unwilling to admit an atom of
+fault in my lord forgetting his virtues. Thou draggest me who am in my
+season before these Kuru heroes. This is truly an unworthy act. But no one
+here rebuketh thee. Assuredly, all these are of the same mind with thee. O
+fie! Truly hath the virtue of the Bharata gone! Truly also hath the usage
+of those acquainted with the Kshatriya practice disappeared! Else these
+Kurus in this assembly would never have looked silently on this act that
+transgresseth the limits of their practices. Oh! both Drona and Bhishma
+have lost their energy, and so also hath the high-souled Kshatta, and so
+also this king. Else, why do these foremost of the Kuru elders look
+silently on this great crime?'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Thus did Krishna of slender waist cry in
+distress in that assembly. And casting a glance upon her enraged lords--
+the Pandavas--who were filled with terrible wrath, she inflamed them
+further with that glance of hers. And they were not so distressed at
+having been robbed of their kingdom, of their wealth, of their costliest
+gems, as with that glance of Krishna moved by modesty and anger. And
+Dussasana, beholding Krishna looking at her helpless lords, dragging her
+still more forcibly, and addressed her, 'Slave, Slave' and laughed aloud.
+And at those words Karna became very glad and approved of them by laughing
+aloud. And Sakuni, the son of Suvala, the Gandhara king, similarly
+applauded Dussasana. And amongst all those that were in the assembly
+except these three and Duryodhana, every one was filled with sorrow at
+beholding Krishna thus dragged in sight of that assembly. And beholding it
+all, Bhishma said, 'O blessed one, morality is subtle. I therefore am
+unable to duly decide this point that thou hast put, beholding that on the
+one hand one that hath no wealth cannot stake the wealth belonging to
+others, while on the other hand wives are always under the orders and at
+the disposal of their lords. Yudhishthira can abandon the whole world full
+of wealth, but he will never sacrifice morality. The son of Pandu hath
+said--"I am won." Therefore, I am unable to decide this matter. Sakuni
+hath not his equal among men at dice-play. The son of Kunti still
+voluntarily staked with him. The illustrious Yudhishthira doth not himself
+regard that Sakuni hath played with him deceitfully. Therefore, I can not
+decide this point.'
+
+"Draupadi said,--'The king was summoned to this assembly and though
+possessing no skill at dice, he was made to play with skilful, wicked,
+deceitful and desperate gamblers. How can he said then to have staked
+voluntarily? The chief of the Pandavas was deprived of his senses by
+wretches of deceitful conduct and unholy instincts, acting together, and
+then vanquished. He could not understand their tricks, but he hath now
+done so. Here, in this assembly, there are Kurus who are the lords of both
+their sons and their daughters-in-law! Let all of them, reflecting well
+upon my words, duly decide the point that I have put.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Unto Krishna who was thus weeping and crying
+piteously, looking at times upon her helpless lord, Dussasana spake many
+disagreeable and harsh words. And beholding her who was then in her season
+thus dragged, and her upper garments loosened, beholding her in that
+condition which she little deserved, Vrikodara afflicted beyond endurance,
+his eyes fixed upon Yudhishthira, gave way to wrath.
+
+"Bhima said,--'O Yudhishthira, gamblers have in their houses many women of
+loose character. They do not yet stake those women having kindness for
+them even. Whatever wealth and other excellent articles the king of Kasi
+gave, whatever, gems, animals, wealth, coats of mail and weapons that
+other kings of the earth gave, our kingdom, thyself and ourselves, have
+all been won by the foes. At all this my wrath was not excited for thou
+art our lord. This, however, I regard as a highly improper act--this act
+of staking Draupadi. This innocent girl deserveth not this treatment.
+Having obtained the Pandavas as her lords, it is for thee alone that she
+is being thus persecuted by the low, despicable, cruel, and mean-minded
+Kauravas. It is for her sake, O king, that my anger falleth on thee. I
+shall burn those hands of thine. Sahadeva, bring some fire.'
+
+"Arjuna hearing this, said,--'Thou hast never, O Bhimasena, before this
+uttered such words as these. Assuredly thy high morality hath been
+destroyed by these cruel foes. Thou shouldst not fulfil the wishes of the
+enemy. Practise thou the highest morality. Whom doth it behave to
+transgress his virtuous eldest brother? The king was summoned by the foe,
+and remembering the usage of the Kshatriyas, he played at dice against his
+will. That is certainly conducive to our great fame.'
+
+"Bhima said,--'If I had not known, O Dhananjaya, that the king had acted
+according to Kshatriya usage, then I would have, taking his hands together
+by sheer force, burnt them in a blazing fire.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Beholding the Pandavas thus distressed and the
+princess of Panchala also thus afflicted, Vikarna the son of Dhritarashtra
+said--'Ye kings, answer ye the question that hath been asked by Yajnaseni.
+If we do not judge a matter referred to us, all of us will assuredly have
+to go to hell without delay. How is that Bhishma and Dhritarashtra, both
+of whom are the oldest of the Kurus, as also the high-souled Vidura, do
+not say anything! The son of Bharadwaja who is the preceptor of us, as
+also Kripa, is here. Why do not these best of regenerate ones answer the
+question? Let also those other kings assembled here from all directions
+answer according to their judgment this question, leaving aside all
+motives of gain and anger. Ye kings, answer ye the question that hath been
+asked by this blessed daughter of king Drupada, and declare after
+reflection on which side each of ye is.' Thus did Vikarna repeatedly
+appeal to those that were in that assembly. But those kings answered him
+not one word, good or ill. And Vikarna having repeatedly appealed to all
+the kings began to rub his hands and sigh like a snake. And at last the
+prince said--'Ye kings of the earth, ye Kauravas, whether ye answer this
+question or not, I will say what I regard as just and proper. Ye foremost
+of men, it hath been said that hunting, drinking, gambling, and too much
+enjoyment of women, are the four vices of kings. The man, that is addicted
+to these, liveth forsaking virtue. And people do not regard the acts done
+by a person who is thus improperly engaged, as of any authority. This son
+of Pandu, while deeply engaged in one of these vicious acts, urged thereto
+by deceitful gamblers, made Draupadi a stake. The innocent Draupadi is,
+besides, the common wife of all the sons of Pandu. And the king, having
+first lost himself offered her as a stake. And Suvala himself desirous of
+a stake, indeed prevailed upon the king to stake this Krishna. Reflecting
+upon all these circumstances, I regard Draupadi as not won.'
+
+"Hearing these words, a loud uproar rose from among those present in that
+assembly. And they all applauded Vikarna and censured the son of Suvala.
+And at that sound, the son of Radha, deprived of his senses by anger,
+waving his well-shaped arms, said these words,--'O Vikarna, many opposite
+and inconsistent conditions are noticeable in this assembly. Like fire
+produced from a faggot, consuming the faggot itself, this thy ire will
+consume thee. These personages here, though urged by Krishna, have not
+uttered a word. They all regard the daughter of Drupada to have been
+properly won. Thou alone, O son of Dhritarashtra in consequence of thy
+immature years, art bursting with wrath, for though but a boy thou
+speakest in the assembly as if thou wert old. O younger brother of
+Duryodhana, thou dost not know what morality truly is, for thou sayest
+like a fool that this Krishna who hath been (justly) won as not won at all.
+O son of Dhritarashtra, how dost thou regard Krishna as not won, when the
+eldest of the Pandavas before this assembly staked all his possessions? O
+bull of the Bharata race, Draupadi is included in all the possessions (of
+Yudhishthira). Therefore, why regardest thou Krishna who hath been justly
+won as not won? Draupadi had been mentioned (by Suvala) and approved of as
+a stake by the Pandavas. For what reason then dost thou yet regard her as
+not won? Or, if thou thinkest that bringing her hither attired in a single
+piece of cloth, is an action of impropriety, listen to certain excellent
+reasons I will give. O son of the Kuru race, the gods have ordained only
+one husband for one woman. This Draupadi, however, hath many husbands.
+Therefore, certain it is that she is an unchaste woman. To bring her,
+therefore, into this assembly attired though she be in one piece of cloth--
+even to uncover her is not at all an act that may cause surprise. Whatever
+wealth the Pandavas had--she herself and these Pandavas themselves,--have
+all been justly won by the son of Suvala. O Dussasana, this Vikarna
+speaking words of (apparent) wisdom is but a boy. Take off the robes of
+the Pandavas as also the attire of Draupadi.' Hearing these words the
+Pandavas, O Bharata, took of their upper garments and throwing them down
+sat in that assembly. Then Dussasana, O king, forcibly seizing Draupadi's
+attire before the eyes of all, began to drag it off her person."
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"When the attire of Draupadi was being thus
+dragged, the thought of Hari, (And she herself cried aloud, saying), 'O
+Govinda, O thou who dwellest in Dwaraka, O Krishna, O thou who art fond of
+cow-herdesses (of Vrindavana). O Kesava, seest thou not that the Kauravas
+are humiliating me. O Lord, O husband of Lakshmi, O Lord of Vraja
+(Vrindavana), O destroyer of all afflictions, O Janarddana, rescue me who
+am sinking in the Kaurava Ocean. O Krishna, O Krishna, O thou great yogin,
+thou soul of the universe, Thou creator of all things, O Govinda, save me
+who am distressed,--who am losing my senses in the midst of the Kurus.'
+Thus did that afflicted lady resplendent still in her beauty, O king
+covering her face cried aloud, thinking of Krishna, of Hari, of the lord
+of the three worlds. Hearing the words of Draupadi, Krishna was deeply
+moved. And leaving his seat, the benevolent one from compassion, arrived
+there on foot. And while Yajnaseni was crying aloud to Krishna, also
+called Vishnu and Hari and Nara for protection, the illustrious Dharma,
+remaining unseen, covered her with excellent clothes of many hues. And, O
+monarch as the attire of Draupadi was being dragged, after one was taken
+off, another of the same kind, appeared covering her. And thus did it
+continue till many clothes were seen. And, O exalted one, owing to the
+protection of Dharma, hundreds upon hundreds of robes of many hues came
+off Draupadi's person. And there arose then a deep uproar of many many
+voices. And the kings present in that assembly beholding that most
+extraordinary of all sights in the world, began to applaud Draupadi and
+censure the son of Dhritarashtra. And Bhima then, squeezing his hands,
+with lips quivering in rage, swore in the midst of all those kings a
+terrible oath in a loud voice.
+
+"And Bhima said,--'Hear these words of mine, ye Kshatriyas of the world.
+Words such as these were never before uttered by other men, nor will
+anybody in the future ever utter them. Ye lords of earth, if having spoken
+these words I do not accomplish them hereafter, let me not obtain the
+region of my deceased ancestors. Tearing open in battle, by sheer force,
+the breast of this wretch, this wicked-minded scoundrel of the Bharata
+race, if I do not drink his life-blood, let me not obtain the region of my
+ancestors.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Hearing these terrible words of Bhima that made
+the down of the auditors to stand on end, everybody present there
+applauded him and censured the son of Dhritarashtra. And when a mass of
+clothes had been gathered in that assembly, all dragged from the person of
+Draupadi, Dussasana, tired and ashamed, sat down. And beholding the sons
+of Kunti in that state, the persons--those gods among men--that were in
+that assembly all uttered the word 'Fie!' (on the son of Dhritarashtra).
+And the united voices of all became so loud that they made the down of
+anybody who heard them stand on end. And all the honest men that were in
+that assembly began to say,--'Alas! the Kauravas answer not the question
+that hath been put to them by Draupadi.' And all censuring Dhritarashtra
+together, made a loud clamour. Then Vidura, that master of the science of
+morality, waving his hands and silencing every one, spake these words;--
+'Ye that are in this assembly, Draupadi having put her question is weeping
+helplessly. Ye are not answering her. Virtue and morality are being
+persecuted by such conduct. An afflicted person approacheth an assembly of
+good men, like one that is being consumed by fire. They that are in the
+assembly quench that fire and cool him by means of truth and morality. The
+afflicted person asketh the assembly about his rights, as sanctioned by
+morality. They that are in the assembly should, unmoved by interest and
+anger, answer the question. Ye kings, Vikarna hath answered the question,
+according to his own knowledge and judgment. Ye should also answer it as
+ye think proper. Knowing the rules of morality, and having attended an
+assembly, he that doth not answer a query that is put, incurreth half the
+demerit that attacheth to a lie. He, on the other hand, who, knowing the
+rules of morality and having joined an assembly answereth falsely,
+assuredly incurreth the sin of a lie. The learned quote as an example in
+this connection the old history of Prahlada and the son of Angirasa.
+
+"'There was of old a chief of the Daityas of the name Prahlada. He had a
+son named Virochana. And Virochana, for the sake of obtaining a bride,
+quarrelled with Sudhanwan, the son of Angiras. It hath been heard by us
+that they mutually wagered their lives, saying--"I am superior,"--"I am
+superior,"--for the sake of obtaining a bride. And after they had thus
+quarrelled with each other, they both made Prahlada the arbitrator to
+decide between them. And they asked him, saying;--"Who amongst us is
+superior (to the other)? Answer this question. Speak not falsely."
+Frightened at this quarrel, Prahlada cast his eyes upon Sudhanwan. And
+Sudhanwan in rage, burning like unto the mace of Yama, told him,--"If thou
+answerest falsely, or dost not answer at all thy head will then be split
+into a hundred pieces by the wielder of the thunderbolt with that bolt of
+his."--Thus addressed by Sudhanwan, the Daitya, trembling like a leaf of
+the fig tree, went to Kasyapa of great energy, for taking counsel with him.
+And Prahlada said,--"Thou art, O illustrious and exalted one, fully
+conversant with the rules of morality that should guide both the gods and
+the Asuras and the Brahmanas as well. Here, however, is a situation of
+great difficulty in respect of duty. Tell me, I ask thee, what regions are
+obtainable by them who upon being asked a question, answer it not, or
+answer it falsely." Kasyapa thus asked answered.--"He that knoweth, but
+answereth not a question from temptation, anger or fear, casteth upon
+himself a thousand nooses of Varuna. And the person who, cited as a
+witness with respect to any matter of ocular or auricular knowledge,
+speaketh carelessly, casteth a thousand nooses of Varuna upon his own
+person. On the completion of one full year, one such noose is loosened.
+Therefore, he that knoweth, should speak the truth without concealment. If
+virtue, pierced by sin, repaireth to an assembly (for aid), it is the duty
+of every body in the assembly to take off the dart, otherwise they
+themselves would be pierced with it. In an assembly where a truly
+censurable act is not rebuked, half the demerit of that act attacheth to
+the head of that assembly, a fourth to the person acting censurably and a
+fourth unto those others that are there. In that assembly, on the other
+hand, when he that deserveth censure is rebuked, the head of the assembly
+becometh freed from all sins, and the other members also incur none. It is
+only the perpetrator himself of the act that becometh responsible for it.
+O Prahlada, they who answer falsely those that ask them about morality
+destroy the meritorious acts of their seven upper and seven lower
+generations. The grief of one who hath lost all his wealth, of one who
+hath lost a son, of one who is in debt, of one who is separated from his
+companions, of a woman who hath lost her husband, of one that hath lost
+his all in consequence of the king's demand, of a woman who is sterile, of
+one who hath been devoured by a tiger (during his last struggles in the
+tiger's claws), of one who is a co-wife, and of one who hath been deprived
+of his property by false witnesses, have been said by the gods to be
+uniform in degree. These different sorts of grief are his who speaketh
+false. A person becometh a witness in consequence of his having seen,
+heard, and understood a thing. Therefore, a witness should always tell the
+truth. A truth-telling witness never loseth his religious merits and
+earthly possessions also." Hearing these words of Kasyapa, Prahlada told
+his son, "Sudhanwan is superior to thee, as indeed, (his father) Angiras
+is superior to me. The mother also of Sudhanwan is superior to thy mother.
+Therefore, O Virochana, this Sudhanwan is now the lord of the life." At
+these words of Prahlada, Sudhanwan said, "Since unmoved by affection for
+thy child, thou hast adhered to virtue, I command, let this son of thine
+live for a hundred years."'
+
+"Vidura continued,--'Let all the persons, therefore, present in this
+assembly hearing these high truths of morality, reflect upon what should
+be the answer to the question asked by Draupadi.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"The kings that were there hearing these words of
+Vidura, answered not a word, yet Karna alone spoke unto Dussasana, telling
+him. Take away this serving-woman Krishna into the inner apartments. And
+thereupon Dussasana began to drag before all the spectators the helpless
+and modest Draupadi, trembling and crying piteously unto the Pandavas her
+lords.
+
+
+SECTION LXVIII
+
+"Draupadi said,--'Wait a little, thou worst of men, thou wicked-minded
+Dussasana. I have an act to perform--a high duty that hath not been
+performed by me yet. Dragged forcibly by this wretch's strong arms, I was
+deprived of my senses. I salute these reverend seniors in this assembly of
+the Kurus. That I could not do this before cannot be my fault.'"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Dragged with greater force than before, the afflicted
+and helpless Draupadi, undeserving of such treatment, falling down upon
+the ground, thus wept in that assembly of the Kurus,--
+
+"'Alas, only once before, on the occasion of the Swayamvara, I was beheld
+by the assembled kings in the amphitheatre, and never even once beheld
+afterwards. I am to-day brought before this assembly. She whom even the
+winds and the sun had seen never before in her palace is to-day before
+this assembly and exposed to the gaze of the crowd. Alas, she whom the
+sons of Pandu could not, while in her palace, suffer to be touched even by
+the wind, is to-day suffered by the Pandavas to be seized and dragged by
+this wretch. Alas, these Kauravas also suffer their daughter-in-law, so
+unworthy of such treatment, to be thus afflicted before them. It seemeth
+that the times are out of joint. What can be more distressing to me, than
+that though high-born and chaste, I should yet be compelled to enter this
+public court? Where is that virtue for which these kings were noted? It
+hath been heard that the kings of ancient days never brought their wedded
+wives into the public court. Alas, that eternal usage hath disappeared
+from among the Kauravas. Else, how is it that the chaste wife of the
+Pandavas, the sister of Prishata's son, the friend of Vasudeva, is brought
+before this assembly? Ye Kauravas, I am the wedded wife of king
+Yudhishthira the just, hailing from the same dynasty to which the King
+belonged. Tell me now if I am a serving-maid or otherwise. I will
+cheerfully accept your answer. This mean wretch, this destroyer of the
+name of the Kurus, is afflicting me hard. Ye Kauravas, I cannot bear it
+any longer. Ye kings, I desire ye to answer whether ye regard me as won or
+unwon. I will accept your verdict whatever it be.'
+
+"Hearing these words, Bhishma answered, 'I have already said, O blessed one
+that the course of morality is subtle. Even the illustrious wise in this
+world fail to understand it always. What in this world a strong man calls
+morality is regarded as such by others, however otherwise it may really be;
+but what a weak man calls morality is scarcely regarded as such even if it
+be the highest morality. From the importance of the issue involved, from
+its intricacy and subtlety, I am unable to answer with certitude the
+question thou hast asked. However, it is certain that as all the Kurus
+have become the slaves of covetousness and folly, the destruction of this
+our race will happen on no distant date. O blessed one, the family into
+which thou hast been admitted as a daughter-in-law, is such that those who
+are born in it, however much they might be afflicted by calamities, never
+deviate from the paths of virtue and morality. O Princess of Panchala,
+this conduct of thine also, viz. that though sunk in distress, thou still
+easiest thy eyes on virtue and morality, is assuredly worthy of thee.
+These persons, Drona and others, of mature years and conversant with
+morality, sit heads downwards like men that are dead, with bodies from
+which life hath departed. It seemeth to me, however, that Yudhishthira is
+an authority on this question. It behoveth him to declare whether thou art
+won or not won.'"
+
+
+SECTION LXIX
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"The kings present in that assembly, from fear of
+Duryodhana, uttered not a word, good or ill, although they beheld Draupadi
+crying piteously in affliction like a female osprey, and repeatedly
+appealing to them. And the son of Dhritarashtra beholding those kings and
+sons and grand sons of kings all remaining silent, smiled a little, and
+addressing the daughter of the king of Panchala, said,--'O Yajnaseni, the
+question thou hast put dependeth on thy husbands--on Bhima of mighty
+strength, on Arjuna, on Nakula, on Sahadeva. Let them answer thy question.
+O Panchali, let them for thy sake declare in the midst of these
+respectable men that Yudhishthira is not their lord, let them thereby make
+king Yudhishthira the just a liar. Thou shalt then be freed from the
+condition of slavery. Let the illustrious son of Dharma, always adhering
+to virtue, who is even like Indra, himself declare whether he is not thy
+lord. At his words, accept thou the Pandavas or ourselves without delay.
+Indeed, all the Kauravas present in this assembly are floating in the
+ocean of thy distress. Endued with magnanimity, they are unable to answer
+thy question, looking at thy unfortunate husbands.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Hearing these words of the Kuru king, all who
+were present in the assembly loudly applauded them. And shouting
+approvingly, they made signs unto one another by motions of their eyes and
+lips. And amongst some that were there, sounds of distress such as 'O!' and
+'Alas!' were heard. And at these words of Duryodhana, so delightful (to
+his partisans), the Kauravas present in that assembly became exceedingly
+glad. And the kings, with faces turned sideways, looked upon Yudhishthira
+conversant with the rules of morality, curious to hear what he would say.
+And every one present in that assembly became curious to hear what Arjuna,
+the son of Pandu never defeated in battle, and what Bhimasena, and what
+the twins also would say. And when that busy hum of many voices became
+still, Bhimasena, waving his strong and well-formed arms smeared with
+sandalpaste spake these words,--'If this high-souled king Yudhishthira the
+just, who is our eldest brother, had not been our lord, we would never
+have forgiven the Kuru race (for all this). He is the lord of all our
+religious and ascetic merits, the lord of even our lives. If he regardeth
+himself as won, we too have all been won. If this were not so, who is
+there amongst creatures touching the earth with their feet and mortal,
+that would escape from me with his life after having touched those locks
+of the princess of Panchala? Behold these mighty, well-formed arms of mine,
+even like maces of iron. Having once come within them, even he of a
+hundred sacrifices is incapable of effecting an escape. Bound by the ties
+of virtue and the reverence that is due to our eldest brother, and
+repeatedly urged by Arjuna to remain silent, I am not doing anything
+terrible. If however, I am once commanded by king Yudhishthira the just, I
+would slay these wretched sons of Dhritarashtra, making slaps do the work
+of swords, like a lion slaying a number of little animals.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Unto Bhima who had spoken these words Bhishma
+and Drona and Vidura said, 'Forbear, O Bhima. Everything is possible with
+thee.'
+
+
+SECTION LXX
+
+"Karna said,--'Of all the persons in the assembly, three, viz., Bhishma,
+Vidura, and the preceptor of the Kurus (Drona) appear to be independent;
+for they always speak of their master as wicked, always censure him, and
+never wish for his prosperity. O excellent one, the slave, the son, and
+the wife are always dependent. They cannot earn wealth, for whatever they
+earn belongeth to their master. Thou art the wife of a slave incapable of
+possessing anything on his own account. Repair now to the inner apartments
+of king Dhritarashtra and serve the king's relatives. We direct that that
+is now thy proper business. And, O princess, all the sons of Dhritarashtra
+and not the sons of Pritha are now thy masters. O handsome one, select
+thou another husband now,--one who will not make thee a slave by gambling.
+It is well-known that women, especially that are slaves, are not
+censurable if they proceed with freedom in electing husbands. Therefore
+let it be done by thee. Nakula hath been won, as also Bhimasena, and
+Yudhishthira also, and Sahadeva, and Arjuna. And, O Yajnaseni, thou art
+now a slave. Thy husbands that are slaves cannot continue to be thy lords
+any longer. Alas, doth not the son of Pritha regards life, prowess and
+manhood as of no use that he offereth this daughter of Drupada, the king
+of Panchala, in the presence of all this assembly, as a stake at dice?'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Hearing these words, the wrathful Bhima breathed
+hard, a very picture of woe. Obedient to the king and bound by the tie of
+virtue and duty, burning everything with his eyes inflamed by anger, he
+said,--'O king, I cannot be angry at these words of this son of a Suta,
+for we have truly entered the state of servitude. But O king, could our
+enemies have said so unto me, it thou hadst not played staking this
+princess?'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Hearing these words of Bhimasena king Duryodhana
+addressed Yudhishthira who was silent and deprived of his senses, saying,--
+'O king, both Bhima and Arjuna, and the twins also, are under thy sway.
+Answer thou the question (that hath been asked by Draupadi). Say, whether
+thou regardest Krishna as unwon.' And having spoken thus unto the son of
+Kunti, Duryodhana desirous of encouraging the son of Radha and insulting
+Bhima, quickly uncovered his left thigh that was like unto the stem of a
+plantain tree or the trunk of an elephant and which was graced with every
+auspicious sign and endued with the strength of thunder, and showed it to
+Draupadi in her very sight. And beholding this, Bhimasena expanding his
+red eyes, said unto Duryodhana in the midst of all those kings and as if
+piercing them (with his dart-like words),--'Let not Vrikodara attain to
+the regions, obtained by his ancestors, if he doth not break that thigh of
+thine in the great conflict.' And sparkles of fire began to be emitted from
+every organ of sense of Bhima filled with wrath, like those that come out
+of every crack and orifice in the body of a blazing tree.
+
+"Vidura then, addressing everybody, said,--'Ye kings of Pratipa's race,
+behold the great danger that ariseth from Bhimasena. Know ye for certain
+that this great calamity that threatens to overtake the Bharatas hath been
+sent by Destiny itself. The sons of Dhritarashtra have, indeed, gambled
+disregarding every proper consideration. They are even now disputing in
+this assembly about a lady (of the royal household). The prosperity of our
+kingdom is at an end. Alas, the Kauravas are even now engaged in sinful
+consultations. Ye Kauravas, take to your heart this high precept that I
+declare. If virtue is persecuted, the whole assembly becometh polluted. If
+Yudhishthira had staked her before he was himself won, he would certainly
+have been regarded as her master. If, however a person staketh anything at
+a time when he himself is incapable of holding any wealth, to win it is
+very like obtaining wealth in a dream. Listening to the words of the king
+of Gandhara, fall ye not off from this undoubted truth.'
+
+"Duryodhana, hearing Vidura thus speak, said,--'I am willing to abide by
+the words of Bhima, of Arjuna and of the twins. Let them say that
+Yudhishthira is not their master. Yajnaseni will then be freed from her
+state of bondage.'
+
+"Arjuna at this, said,--'This illustrious son of Kunti, king Yudhishthira
+the just, was certainly our master before he began to play. But having
+lost himself, let all the Kauravas judge whose master he could be after
+that.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Just then, a jackal began to cry loudly in the
+homa-chamber of king Dhritarashtra's palace. And, O king, unto the jackal
+that howled so, the asses began to bray responsively. And terrible birds
+also, from all sides, began to answer with their cries. And Vidura
+conversant with everything and the daughter of Suvala, both understood the
+meaning of those terrible sounds. And Bhishma and Drona and the learned
+Gautama loudly cried,--Swashti! Swashti! [Footnote 1] Then Gandhari and the
+learned Vidura beholding that frightful omen, represented everything, in
+great affliction, unto the king. And the king (Dhritarashtra) thereupon
+said,--
+
+[Footnote 1. A word of benediction, similar to 'Amen.']
+
+"'Thou wicked-minded Duryodhana, thou wretch, destruction hath all ready
+overtaken thee when thou insultest in language such as this the wife of
+these bulls among the Kurus, especially their wedded wife Draupadi.' And
+having spoken those words, the wise Dhritarashtra endued with knowledge,
+reflecting with the aid of his wisdom and desirous of saving his relatives
+and friends from destruction, began to console Krishna, the princess of
+Panchala, and addressing her, the monarch said,--'Ask of me any boon, O
+princess of Panchala, that thou desirest. Chaste and devoted to virtue,
+thou art the first of all my daughters-in-law.'
+
+"Draupadi said,--'O bull of the Bharata race, if thou will grant me a boon,
+I ask the handsome Yudhishthira, obedient to every duty, be freed from
+slavery. Let not unthinking children call my child Prativindhya endued
+with great energy of mind as the son of a slave. Having been a
+prince, so superior to all men, and nurtured by kings it is not proper
+that he should be called the child of a slave.'
+
+"Dhritarashtra said unto her,--'O auspicious one, let it be as thou sayest.
+O excellent one, ask thou another boon, for I will give it. My heart
+inclineth to give thee a second boon. Thou dost not deserve only one
+boon.'
+
+"Draupadi said,--'I ask, O king, that Bhimasena and Dhananjaya and the
+twins also, with their cars and bows, freed from bondage, regain their
+liberty.'
+
+"Dhritarashtra said,--'O blessed daughter, let it be as thou desirest. Ask
+thou a third boon, for thou hast not been sufficiently honoured with two
+boons. Virtuous in thy behaviour, thou art the foremost of all my
+daughters-in-law.'
+
+"Draupadi said,--'O best of kings, O illustrious one, covetousness always
+bringeth about loss of virtue. I do not deserve a third boon. Therefore I
+dare not ask any. O king of kings, it hath been said that a Vaisya may ask
+one boon; a Kshatriya lady, two boons; a Kshatriya male, three, and a
+Brahmana, a hundred. O king, these my husbands freed from the wretched
+state of bondage, will be able to achieve prosperity by their own virtuous
+acts!'
+
+
+SECTION LXXI
+
+"Karna said,--'We have never heard of such an act (as this one of
+Draupadi), performed by any of the women noted in this world for their
+beauty. When the sons of both Pandu and Dhritarashtra were excited with
+wrath, this Draupadi became unto the sons of Pandu as their salvation.
+Indeed the princess of Panchala, becoming as a boat unto the sons of Pandu
+who were sinking in a boatless ocean of distress, hath brought them in
+safety to the shore.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Hearing these words of Karna in the midst of the
+Kurus,--viz., that the sons of Pandu were saved by their wife,--the angry
+Bhimasena in great affliction said (unto Arjuna),--'O Dhananjaya, it hath
+been said by Devala three lights reside in every person, viz., offspring,
+acts and learning, for from these three hath sprung creation. When life
+becometh extinct and the body becometh impure and is cast off by relatives,
+these three become of service to every person. But the light that is in us
+hath been dimmed by this act of insult to our wife. How, O Arjuna, can a
+son born from this insulted wife of ours prove serviceable to us?'
+
+"Arjuna replied,--'Superior persons, O Bharata, never prate about the
+harsh words that may or may not be uttered by inferior men. Persons that
+have earned respect for themselves, even if they are able to retaliate,
+remember not the acts of hostility done by their enemies, but, on the
+other hand, treasure up only their good deeds.'
+
+"Bhima said,--'Shall I, O king, slay, without loss of time all these foes
+assembled together, even here, or shall I destroy them, O Bharata, by the
+roots, outside this palace? Or, what need is there of words or of command?
+I shall slay all these even now, and rule thou the whole earth, O king,
+without a rival.' And saying this, Bhima with his younger brothers, like a
+lion in the midst of a herd of inferior animals, repeatedly cast his angry
+glances around. But Arjuna, however, of white deeds, with appealing looks
+began to pacify his elder brother. And the mighty-armed hero endued with
+great prowess began to burn with the fire of his wrath. And, O king, this
+fire began to issue out of Vrikodara's ears and other senses with smoke
+and sparks and flames. And his face became terrible to behold in
+consequence of his furrowed brows like those of Yama himself at the time
+of the universal destruction. Then Yudhishthira forbade the mighty hero,
+embracing him with his arms and telling him 'Be not so. Stay in silence
+and peace.' And having pacified the mighty-armed one with eyes red in
+wrath, the king approached his uncle Dhritarashtra, with hands joined in
+entreaty.
+
+
+SECTION LXXII
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'O king, thou art our master. Command us as to what
+we shall do. O Bharata, we desire to remain always in obedience to thee.'
+
+"Dhritarashtra replied.--'O Ajatasatru, blest be thou. Go thou in peace
+and safety. Commanded by me, go, rule thy own kingdom with thy wealth. And,
+O child, take to heart this command of an old man, this wholesome advice
+that I give, and which is even a nutritive regimen. O Yudhishthira, O
+child, thou knowest the subtle path of morality. Possessed of great wisdom,
+thou art also humble, and thou waitest also upon the old. Where there is
+intelligence, there is forbearance. Therefore, O Bharata, follow thou
+counsels of peace. The axe falleth upon wood, not upon stone. (Thou art
+open to advice, not Duryodhana). They are the best of men that remember
+not the acts of hostility of their foes; that behold only the merits, not
+the faults, of their enemies; and that never enter into hostilities
+themselves. They that are good remember only the good deeds of their foes
+and not the hostile acts their foes might have done unto them. The good,
+besides, do good unto others without expectation of any good, in return. O
+Yudhishthira, it is only the worst of men that utter harsh words in
+quarrelling; while they that are indifferent reply to such when spoken by
+others. But they that are good and wise never think of or recapitulate
+such harsh words, little caring whether these may or may not have been
+uttered by their foes. They that are good, having regard to the state of
+their own feelings, can understand the feelings of others, and therefore
+remember only the good deeds and not the acts of hostility of their foes.
+Thou hast acted even as good men of prepossessing countenance do, who
+transgress not the limits of virtue, wealth, pleasure and salvation. O
+child, remember not the harsh words of Duryodhana. Look at thy mother
+Gandhari and myself also, if thou desirest to remember only what is good.
+O Bharata, look at me, who am thy father unto you and am old and blind,
+and still alive. It was for seeing our friends and examining also the
+strength and weakness of my children, that I had, from motives of policy,
+suffered this match at dice to proceed. O king those amongst the Kurus
+that have thee for their ruler, and the intelligent Vidura conversant with
+every branch of learning for their counsellor, have, indeed, nothing to
+grieve for. In thee is virtue, in Arjuna is patience, in Bhimasena is
+prowess, and the twins, those foremost of men, is pure reverence for
+superiors. Blest be thou, O Ajatasatru. Return to Khandavaprastha, and let
+there be brotherly love between thee and thy cousins. Let thy heart also
+be ever fixed on virtue.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"That foremost of the Bharatas--king Yudhishthira
+the just--then, thus addressed by his uncle, having gone through every
+ceremony of politeness, set out with his brothers for Khandavaprastha. And
+accompanied by Draupadi and ascending their cars which were all of the hue
+of the clouds, with cheerful hearts they all set out for that best of
+cities called Indraprastha."
+
+
+SECTION LXXIII
+
+Janamejaya said,--"How did the sons of Dhritarashtra feel, when they came
+to know that the Pandavas had, with Dhritarashtra's leave, left
+Hastinapore with all their wealth and jewels?"
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"O king, learning that the Pandavas had been commanded
+by the wise Dhritarashtra to return to their capital, Dussasana went
+without loss of time unto his brother. And, O bull of the Bharata race,
+having arrived before Duryodhana with his counsellor, the prince,
+afflicted with grief, began to say,--'Ye mighty warriors, that which we
+had won after so much trouble, the old man (our father) hath thrown away.
+Know ye that he hath made over the whole of that wealth to the foes.' At
+these words, Duryodhana and Karna and Sakuni, the son of Suvala, all of
+whom were guided by vanity, united together, and desirous of counteracting
+the sons of Pandu, approaching in haste saw privately the wise king
+Dhritarashtra--the son of Vichitravirya and spake unto him these pleasing
+and artful words. Duryodhana said,--
+
+"'Hast thou not heard, O king, what the learned Vrihaspati the preceptor of
+the celestials, said in course of counselling Sakra about mortals and
+politics? Even these, O slayer of foes, were the words of Vrihaspati,
+"Those enemies that always do wrong by stratagem or force, should be slain
+by every means." If, therefore, with the wealth of the Pandavas, we
+gratify the kings of the earth and then fight with the sons of Pandu, what
+reverses can overtake us? When one hath placed on the neck and back of
+venomous snakes full of wrath for encompassing his destruction, is it
+possible for him to take them off? Equipped with weapon and seated on
+their cars, the angry sons of Pandu like wrathful and venomous snakes will
+assuredly annihilate us, O father. Even now Arjuna proceedeth, encased in
+mail and furnished with his couple of quivers, frequently taking up the
+Gandiva and breathing hard and casting angry glances around. It hath
+(also) been heard by us that Vrikodara, hastily ordering his car to be
+made ready and riding on it, is proceeding along, frequently whirling his
+heavy mace. Nakula also is going along, with the sword in his grasp and
+the semi-circular shield in his hand. And Sahadeva and the king
+(Yudhishthira) have made signs clearly testifying to their intentions.
+Having ascended their cars that are full of all kinds of arms, they are
+whipping their horses (for going to Khandava soon) and assembling their
+forces. Persecuted thus by us they are incapable of forgiving us those
+injuries. Who is there among them that will forgive that insult to
+Draupadi? Blest be thou. We will again gamble with the son of Pandu for
+sending them to exile. O bull among men, we are competent to bring them
+thus under our sway. Dressed in skins, either we or they defeated at dice,
+shall repair to the woods for twelve years. The thirteenth year shall have
+to be spent in some inhabited country unrecognised; and, if recognised, an
+exile for another twelve years shall be the consequence. Either we or they
+shall live so. Let the play begin, casting the dice, let the sons of Pandu
+once more play. O bull of the Bharata race, O king, even this is our
+highest duty. This Sakuni knoweth well the whole science of dice. Even if
+they succeed in observing this vow for thirteen years, we shall be in the
+meantime firmly rooted in the kingdom and making alliances, assemble a
+vast invincible host and keep them content, so that we shall, O king,
+defeat the sons of Pandu if they reappear. Let this plan recommend itself
+to thee, O slayer of foes.'
+
+"Dhritarashtra said,--'Bring back the Pandavas then, indeed, even if they
+have gone a great way. Let them come at once again to cast dice.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Then Drona, Somadatta and Valhika, Gautama,
+Vidura, the son of Drona, and the mighty son of Dhritarashtra by his
+Vaisya wife, Bhurisravas, and Bhishma, and that mighty warrior Vikarna,--
+all said, 'Let not the play commence. Let there be peace.' But
+Dhritarashtra, partial to his sons, disregarding the counsels of all his
+wise friends and relatives, summoned the sons of Pandu."
+
+
+SECTION LXXIV
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"O monarch, it was then that the virtuous Gandhari,
+afflicted with grief on account of her affection for her sons, addressed
+king Dhritarashtra and said, 'When Duryodhana was born, Vidura of great
+intelligence had said, "It is well to send this disgrace of the race to
+the other world. He cried repeatedly and dissonantly like a jackal. It is
+certain he will prove the destruction of our race." Take this to heart, O
+king of the Kurus. O Bharata, sink not, for thy own fault, into an ocean
+of calamity. O lord, accord not thy approbation to the counsels of the
+wicked ones of immature years. Be not thou the cause of the terrible
+destruction of this race. Who is there that will break an embankment which
+hath been completed, or re-kindle a conflagration which hath been
+extinguished? O bull of the Bharata race, who is there that will provoke
+the peaceful sons of Pritha? Thou rememberest, O Ajamida, everything, but
+still I will call thy attention to this. The scriptures can never control
+the wicked-minded for good or evil. And, O king, a person of immature
+understanding will never act as one of mature years. Let thy sons follow
+thee as their leader. Let them not be separated from thee for ever (by
+losing their lives). Therefore, at my word, O king, abandon this wretch of
+our race. Thou couldst not, O king, from parental affection, do it before.
+Know that the time hath come for the destruction of race through him. Err
+not, O king. Let thy mind, guided by counsels of peace, virtue, and true
+policy, be what it naturally is. That prosperity which is acquired by the
+aid of wicked acts, is soon destroyed; while that which is won by mild
+means taketh root and descendeth from generation to generation.'
+
+"The king, thus addressed by Gandhari who pointed out to him in such
+language the path of virtue, replied unto her, saying,--'If the
+destruction of our race is come, let it take place freely. I am ill able
+to prevent it. Let it be as they (these my sons) desire. Let the Pandavas
+return. And let my sons again gamble with the sons of Pandu.'"
+
+
+SECTION LXXV
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"The royal messenger, agreeably to the commands of the
+intelligent king Dhritarashtra, coming upon Yudhishthira, the son of
+Pritha who had by that time gone a great way, addressed the monarch and
+said,--'Even these are the words of thy father-like uncle, O Bharata,
+spoken unto thee, "The assembly is ready. O son of Pandu, O king
+Yudhisthira, come and cast the dice."'
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'Creatures obtain fruits good and ill according to the
+dispensation of the Ordainer of the creation. Those fruits are inevitable
+whether I play or not. This is a summons to dice; it is, besides the
+command of the old king. Although I know that it will prove destructive to
+me, yet I cannot refuse.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Although (a living) animal made of gold was an
+impossibility, yet Rama suffered himself to be tempted by a (golden) deer.
+Indeed, the minds of men over whom calamities hang, became deranged and
+out of order. Yudhishthira, therefore, having said these words, retraced
+his steps along with his brothers. And knowing full well the deception
+practised by Sakuni, the son of Pritha came back to sit at dice with him
+again. These mighty warriors again entered that assembly, afflicting the
+hearts of all their friends. And compelled by Fate they once more sat down
+at ease for gambling for the destruction of themselves.
+
+"Sakuni then said,--'The old king hath given ye back all your wealth. That
+is well. But, O bull of the Bharata race, listen to me, there is a stake
+of great value. Either defeated by ye at dice, dressed in deer skins we
+shall enter the great forest and live there for twelve years passing the
+whole of the thirteenth year in some inhabited region, unrecognised, and
+if recognised return to an exile of another twelve years; or vanquished by
+us, dressed in deer skins ye shall, with Krishna, live for twelve years in
+the woods passing the whole of the thirteenth year unrecognised, in some
+inhabited region. If recognised, an exile of another twelve years is to be
+the consequence. On the expiry of the thirteenth year, each is to have his
+kingdom surrendered by the other. O Yudhishthira, with this resolution,
+play with us, O Bharata, casting the dice.'
+
+"At these words, they that were in that assembly, raising up their arms
+said in great anxiety of mind, and from the strength of their feelings
+these words,--'Alas, fie on the friends of Duryodhana that they do not
+apprise him of his great danger. Whether he, O bull among the Bharatas,
+(Dhritarashtra) understandeth or not, of his own sense, it is thy duty to
+tell him plainly.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"King Yudhishthira, even hearing these various
+remarks, from shame and a sense of virtue again sat at dice. And though
+possessed of great intelligence and fully knowing the consequences, he
+again began to play, as if knowing that the destruction of the Kurus was
+at hand.
+
+"And Yudhishthira said,--'How can, O Sakuni, a king like me, always
+observant of the uses of his own order, refuse, when summoned to dice?
+Therefore I play with thee.'
+
+"Sakuni answered,--'We have many kine and horses, and milch cows, and an
+infinite number of goats and sheep; and elephants and treasures and gold
+and slaves both male and female. All these were staked by us before but
+now let this be our one stake, viz., exile into the woods,--being defeated
+either ye or we will dwell in the woods (for twelve years) and the
+thirteenth year, unrecognised, in some inhabited place. Ye bulls among men,
+with this determination, will we play.'
+
+"O Bharata, this proposal about a stay in the woods was uttered but once.
+The son of Pritha, however, accepted it and Sakuni took up the dice. And
+casting them he said unto Yudhishthira,--'Lo, I have won.'"
+
+
+SECTION LXXVI
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Then the vanquished sons of Pritha prepared for their
+exile into the woods. And they, one after another, in due order, casting
+off their royal robes, attired themselves in deer-skins. And Dussasana,
+beholding those chastisers of foes, dressed in deer-skins and deprived of
+their kingdom and ready to go into exile, exclaimed 'The absolute
+sovereignty of the illustrious king Duryodhana hath commenced. The sons of
+Pandu have been vanquished, and plunged into great affliction. Now have we
+attained the goal either by broad or narrow paths. For today becoming
+superior to our foes in point of prosperity as also of duration of rule
+have we become praiseworthy of men. The sons of Pritha have all been
+plunged by us into everlasting hell. They have been deprived of happiness
+and kingdom for ever and ever. They who, proud of their wealth, laughed in
+derision at the son of Dhritarashtra, will now have to go into the woods,
+defeated and deprived by us of all their wealth. Let them now put off
+their variegated coats of mail, their resplendent robes of celestial make,
+and let them all attire themselves in deer-skins according to the stake
+they had accepted of the son of Suvala. They who always used to boast that
+they had no equals in all the world, will now know and regard themselves
+in this their calamity as grains of sesame without the kernel. Although in
+this dress of theirs the Pandavas seem like unto wise and powerful persons
+installed in a sacrifice, yet they look like persons not entitled to
+perform sacrifices, wearing such a guise. The wise Yajnasena of the Somake
+race, having bestowed his daughter--the princess of Panchala--on the sons
+of Pandu, acted most unfortunately for the husbands of Yajnaseni--these
+sons of Pritha are as eunuchs. And O Yajnaseni, what joy will be thine
+upon beholding in the woods these thy husbands dressed in skins and thread-
+bare rags, deprived of their wealth and possessions. Elect thou a husband,
+whomsoever thou likest, from among all these present here. These Kurus
+assembled here, are all forbearing and self-controlled, and possessed of
+great wealth. Elect thou one amongst these as thy lord, so that these
+great calamity may not drag thee to wretchedness. The sons of Pandu now
+are even like grains of sesame without the kernel, or like show-animals
+encased in skins, or like grains of rice without the kernel. Why shouldst
+thou then longer wait upon the fallen sons of Pandu? Vain is the labour
+used upon pressing the sesame grain devoid of the kernel!'
+
+"Thus did Dussasana, the son of Dhritarashtra, utter in the hearing of the
+Pandavas, harsh words of the most cruel import. And hearing them, the
+unforbearing Bhima, in wrath suddenly approaching that prince like a
+Himalayan lion upon a jackal, loudly and chastisingly rebuked him in these
+words,--'Wicked-minded villain, ravest thou so in words that are uttered
+alone by the sinful? Boastest thou thus in the midst of the kings,
+advanced as thou art by the skill of the king of Gandhara. As thou
+piercest our hearts here with these thy arrowy words, so shall I pierce
+thy heart in battle, recalling all this to thy mind. And they also who
+from anger or covetousness are walking behind thee as thy protectors,--
+them also shall I send to the abode of Yama with their descendants and
+relatives.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Unto Bhima dressed in deer-skins and uttering
+these words of wrath without doing any thing, for he could not deviate
+from the path of virtue, Dussasana abandoning all sense of shame, dancing
+around the Kurus, loudly said, 'O cow! O cow!'
+
+"Bhima at this once more said,--'Wretch darest thou, O Dussasana, use harsh
+words as these? Whom doth it behove to boast, thus having won wealth by
+foul means? I tell thee that if Vrikodara, the son of Pritha, drinketh not
+thy life-blood, piercing open thy breast in battle, let him not attain to
+regions of blessedness, I tell thee truly that by slaying the sons of
+Dhritarashtra in battle, before the very eyes of all the warriors, I shall
+pacify this wrath of mine soon enough.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"And as the Pandavas were going away from the
+assembly, the wicked king Duryodhana from excess of joy mimiced by his own
+steps the playful leonine trade of Bhima. Then Vrikodara, half turning
+towards the king said, 'Think not ye fool that by this thou gainest any
+ascendency over me; slay thee shall I soon with all thy followers, and
+answer thee, recalling all this to thy mind.' And beholding this insult
+offered to him, the mighty and proud Bhima, suppressing his rising rage
+and following the steps of Yudhishthira, also spake these words while
+going out of the Kaurava court, 'I will slay Duryodhana, and Dhananjaya
+will slay Karna, and Sahadeva will slay Sakuni that gambler with dice. I
+also repeat in this assembly these proud words which the gods will
+assuredly make good, if ever we engage in battle with the Kurus, I will
+slay this wretched Duryodhana in battle with my mace, and prostrating him
+on the ground I will place my foot on his head. And as regards this
+(other) wicked person--Dussasana who is audacious in speech, I will drink
+his blood like a lion.'
+
+"And Arjuna said,--'O Bhima, the resolutions of superior men are not known
+in words only. On the fourteenth year from this day, they shall see what
+happeneth.'
+
+"And Bhima again said,--'The earth shall drink the blood of Duryodhana,
+and Karna, and the wicked Sakuni, and Dussasana that maketh the fourth.'
+
+"And Arjuna said,--'O Bhima, I will, as thou directest, slay in battle
+this Karna so malicious and jealous and harsh-speeched and vain. For doing
+what is agreeable to Bhima, Arjuna voweth that he will slay in battle with
+his arrows this Karna with all his followers. And I will send unto the
+regions of Yama also all those other kings that will from foolishness
+fight against me. The mountains of Himavat might be removed from where
+they are, the maker of the day lose his brightness, the moon his coldness,
+but this vow of mine will ever be cherished. And all this shall assuredly
+happen if on the fourteenth year from this, Duryodhana doth not, with
+proper respect, return us our kingdom.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"After Arjuna had said this, Sahadeva the
+handsome son of Madri, endued with great energy, desirous of slaying
+Sakuni, waving his mighty arms and sighing like snake, exclaimed, with
+eyes red with anger--'Thou disgrace of the Gandhara kings, those whom thou
+thinkest as defeated are not really so. Those are even sharp-pointed
+arrows from whose wounds thou hast run the risk in battle. I shall
+certainly accomplish all which Bhima hath said adverting to thee with all
+thy followers. If therefore thou hast anything to do, do it before that
+day cometh. I shall assuredly slay thee in battle with all thy followers
+soon enough, it thou, O son of Suvala, stayest in the light pursuant to
+the Kshatriya usage.'
+
+"Then, O monarch hearing these words of Sahadeva, Nakula the handsomest
+of men spake these words,--'I shall certainly send unto the abode of Yama
+all those wicked sons of Dhritarashtra, who desirous of death and impelled
+by Fate, and moved also by the wish of doing what is agreeable to
+Duryodhana, have used harsh and insulting speeches towards this daughter of
+Yajnasena at the gambling match. Soon enough shall I, at the command of
+Yudhishthira and remembering the wrongs to Draupadi, make the earth
+destitute of the sons of Dhritarashtra.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"And those tigers among men, all endued with long
+arms, having thus pledged themselves to virtuous promises approached king
+Dhritarashtra.
+
+
+SECTION LXXVII
+
+"Yudhishthira said,--'I bid farewell unto all the Bharatas, unto my old
+grand-sire (Bhishma), king Somadatta, the great king Vahlika, Drona, Kripa,
+all the other kings, Aswathaman, Vidura, Dhritarashtra, all the sons of
+Dhritarashtra, Yayutsu, Sanjaya, and all the courtiers, I bid fare well,
+all of ye and returning again I shall see you.""
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Overcome with shame none of those that were
+present there, could tell Yudhishthira anything. Within their hearts,
+however, they prayed for the welfare of that intelligent prince.
+
+"Vidura then said,--'The reverend Pritha is a princess by birth. It
+behoveth her not to go into the woods. Delicate and old and ever known to
+happiness the blessed one will live, respected by me, in my abode. Known
+this, ye sons of Pandu. And let safety be always yours.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"The Pandavas thereupon said,--'O sinless one,
+let it be as thou sayest. Thou art our uncle, and, therefore like as
+our father. We also are all obedient to thee. Thou art, O learned one,
+our most respected superior. We should always obey what thou choosest
+to command. And, O high-souled one, order thou whatever else there is
+that remaineth to be done.'
+
+"Vidura replied,--'O Yudhishthira, O bull of the Bharata race, know this
+to be my opinion, that one that is vanquished by sinful means need not be
+pained by such defeat. Thou knowest every rule of morality; Dhananjaya is
+ever victorious in battle; Bhimasena is the slayer of foes; Nakula is the
+gatherer of wealth; Sahadeva hath administrative talents, Dhaumya is the
+foremost of all conversant with the vedas; and the well-behaved Draupadi
+is conversant with virtue and economy. Ye are attached to one another and
+feel delight at one another's sight and enemies can not separate you from
+one another, and ye are contented. Therefore, who is there that will not
+envy ye? O Bharata, this patient abstraction from the possession of the
+world will be of great benefit to thee. No foe, even if he were equal to
+sakra himself, will be able to stand it. Formerly thou wert instructed on
+the mountains of Himavat by Meru Savarni; in the town of Varanavata by
+Krishna Dwaipayana; on the cliff of Bhrigu by Rama; and on the banks of
+the Dhrishadwati by Sambhu himself. Thou hast also listened to the
+instruction of the great Rishi Asita on the hills of Anjana; and thou
+becamest a disciple of Bhrigu on the banks of the Kalmashi. Narada and
+this thy priest Dhaumya will now become thy instructors. In the matter of
+the next world, abandon not these excellent lessons thou hast obtained
+from the Rishis. O son of Pandu, thou surpassest in intelligence even
+Pururavas, the son of Ila; in strength, all other monarchs; and in virtue,
+even the Rishis. Therefore, resolve thou earnestly to win victory, which
+belongeth to Indra; to control thy wrath, which belongeth to Yama; to give
+in charity, which belongeth to Kuvera; and to control all passions, which
+belongeth to Varuna. And, O Bharata, obtain thou the power of gladdening
+from the moon, the power of sustaining all from water; forbearance from
+the earth; energy from the entire solar disc; strength from the winds, and
+affluence from the other elements. Welfare and immunity from ailment be
+thine; I hope to see thee return. And, O Yudhishthira, act properly and
+duly in all seasons,--in those of distress--in those of difficulty,--
+indeed, in respect of everything, O son of Kunti, with our leave go hence.
+O Bharata, blessing be thine. No one can say that ye have done anything
+sinful before. We hope to see thee, therefore, return in safety and
+crowned with success.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Thus addressed by Vidura, Yudhishthira the son
+of Pandu, of prowess incapable of being baffled, saying, 'So be it,'
+bowing low unto Bhishma and Drona, went away."
+
+
+SECTION LXXVIII
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"Then when Draupadi was about to set out she went unto
+the illustrious Pritha and solicited her leave. And she also asked leave
+of the other ladies of the household who had all been plunged into grief.
+And saluting and embracing every one of them as each deserved, she desired
+to go away. Then there arose within the inner apartments of the Pandavas a
+loud wail of woe. And Kunti, terribly afflicted upon beholding Draupadi on
+the eve of her journey, uttered these words in a voice choked with grief,--
+
+"'O child, grieve not that this great calamity hath overtaken thee. Thou
+art well conversant with the duties of the female sex, and thy behaviour
+and conduct also are as they should be. It behoveth me not, O thou of
+sweet smiles, to instruct thee as to thy duties towards thy lords. Thou
+art chaste and accomplished, and thy qualities have adorned the race of
+thy birth as also the race into which thou hast been admitted by marriage.
+Fortunate are the Kauravas that they have not been burnt by thy wrath. O
+child, safely go thou blest by my prayers. Good women never suffer their
+hearts to the unstung at what is inevitable. Protected by virtue that is
+superior to everything, soon shalt thou obtain good fortune. While living
+in the woods, keep thy eye on my child Sahadeva. See that his heart
+sinketh not under this great calamity.'
+
+"Saying 'So be it!' the princess Draupadi bathed in tears, and clad in one
+piece of cloth, stained with blood, and with hair dishevelled left her
+mother-in-law. And as she went away weeping and wailing Pritha herself in
+grief followed her. She had not gone far when she saw her sons shorn of
+their ornaments and robes, their bodies clad in deerskins, and their heads
+down with shame. And she beheld them surrounded by rejoicing foes and
+pitied by friends. Endued with excess of parental affection, Kunti
+approached her sons in that state, and embracing them all, and in accents
+choked by woe, She said these words,--
+
+"'Ye are virtuous and good-mannered, and adorned with all excellent
+qualities and respectful behaviour. Ye are all high-minded, and engaged in
+the service of your superiors. And ye are also devoted to the gods and the
+performance of sacrifices. Why, then, hath this calamity overtaken you.
+Whence is this reverse of fortune? I do not see by whose wickedness this
+sin hath overtaken you. Alas I have brought you forth. All this must be
+due to my ill fortune. It is for this that ye have been overtaken by this
+calamity, though ye all are endued with excellent virtues. In energy and
+prowess and strength and firmness and might, ye are not wanting. How shall
+ye now, losing your wealth and possessions, live poor in the pathless
+woods? If I had known before that ye were destined to live in the woods, I
+would not have on Pandu's death come from the mountains of Satasringa to
+Hastinapore. Fortunate was your father, as I now regard, for he truly
+reaped the fruit of his asceticism, and he was gifted with foresight, as
+he entertained the wish of ascending heaven, without having to feel any
+pain on account of his sons. Fortunate also was the virtuous Madri, as I
+regard her today, who had, it seems, a fore-knowledge of what would happen
+and who on that account, obtained the high path of emancipation and every
+blessing therewith. Ah, Madri looked upon me as her stay, and her mind
+and her affections were ever fixed on me. Oh, fie on my desire of life,
+owing to which suffer all this woe. Ye children, ye are all excellent and
+dear unto me. I have obtained you after much suffering. I cannot leave you.
+Even I will go with you. Alas, O Krishna, (Draupadi), why dost thou leave
+me so? Everything endued with life is sure to perish. Hath Dhata (Brahma)
+himself forgotten to ordain my death? Perhaps, it is so, and, therefore,
+life doth not quit me. O Krishna, O thou who dwellest in Dwaraka, O
+younger brother of Sankarshana, where art thou? Why dost thou not deliver
+me and these best of men also from such woe? They say that thou who art
+without beginning and without end deliverest those that think of thee. Why
+doth this saying become untrue. These my sons are ever attached to virtue
+and nobility and good fame and prowess. They deserve not to suffer
+affliction. Oh, show them mercy. Alas, when there are such elders amongst
+our race as Bhishma and Drona and Kripa, all conversant with morality and
+the science of worldly concerns, how could such calamity at all come? O
+Pandu, O king, where art thou? Why sufferest thou quietly thy good
+children to be thus sent into exile, defeated at dice? O Sahadeva, desist
+from going. Thou art my dearest child, dearer, O son of Madri, than my
+body itself. Forsake me not. It behoveth thee to have some kindness for me.
+Bound by the ties of virtue, let these thy brothers go. But then, earn
+thou that virtue which springeth from waiting upon me.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"The Pandavas then consoled their weeping mother
+and with hearts plunged in grief set out for the woods. And Vidura himself
+also much afflicted, consoling the distressed Kunti with reasons, and led
+her slowly to his house. And the ladies of Dhritarashtra's house, hearing
+everything as it happened, viz., the exile (of the Pandavas) and the
+dragging of Krishna into the assembly where the princes had gambled,
+loudly wept censuring the Kauravas. And the ladies of the royal household
+also sat silent for a long time, covering their lotus-like faces with
+their fair hands. And king Dhritarashtra also thinking of the dangers that
+threatened his sons, became a prey to anxiety and could not enjoy peace of
+mind. And anxiously meditating on everything, and with mind deprived of
+its equanimity through grief, he sent a messenger unto Vidura, saying,
+'Let Kshatta come to me without a moment's delay.'
+
+"At this summons, Vidura quickly came to Dhritarashtra's palace. And as
+soon as he came, the monarch asked him with great anxiety how the Pandavas
+had left Hastinapore."
+
+
+SECTION LXXIX
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"As soon as Vidura endued with great foresight came
+unto him king Dhritarashtra, the son of Amvika, timidly asked his
+brother,--'How doth Yudhishthira, the son of Dharma, proceed along? And
+how Arjuna? And how the twin sons of Madri? And how, O Kshatta, doth
+Dhaumya proceed along? And how the illustrious Draupadi? I desire to hear
+everything, O Kshatta; describe to me all their acts.'
+
+"Vidura replied,--'Yudhishthira, the son of Kunti, hath gone away covering
+his face with his cloth. And Bhima, O king, hath gone away looking at his
+own mighty arms. And Jishnu (Arjuna) hath gone away, following the king
+spreading sand-grains around. And Sahadeva, the son of Madri, hath gone
+away besmearing his face, and Nakula, the handsomest of men, O king, hath
+gone away, staining himself with dust and his heart in great affliction.
+And the large-eyed and beautiful Krishna hath gone away, covering her face
+with her dishevelled hair following in the wake of the king, weeping and
+in tears. And O monarch, Dhaumya goeth along the road, with kusa grass in
+hand, and uttering the aweful mantras of Sama Veda that relate to Yama.'
+
+"Dhritarashtra asked,--'Tell me, O Vidura, why is it that the Pandavas are
+leaving Hastinapore in such varied guise.'
+
+"Vidura replied,--'Though persecuted by thy sons and robbed of his kingdom
+and wealth the mind of the wise king Yudhishthira the just hath not yet
+deviated from the path of virtue. King Yudhishthira is always kind, O
+Bharata, to thy children. Though deprived (of his kingdom and possessions)
+by foul means, filled with wrath as he is, he doth not open eyes. "I
+should not burn the people by looking at them with angry eyes,"--thinking
+so, the royal son of Pandu goeth covering his face. Listen to me as I tell
+thee, O bull of the Bharata race, why Bhima goeth so. "There is none equal
+to me in strength of arms," thinking so Bhima goeth repeatedly stretching
+forth his mighty arms. And, O king, proud of the strength of his arms,
+Vrikodara goeth, exhibiting them and desiring to do unto his enemies deeds
+worthy of those arms. And Arjuna the son of Kunti, capable of using both
+his arms (in wielding the Gandiva) followeth the footsteps of Yudhishthira,
+scattering sand-grains emblematical of the arrows he would shower in
+battle. O Bharata, he indicateth that as the sand-grains are scattered by
+him with ease, so will he rain arrows with perfect ease on the foe (in
+time of battle). And Sahadeva goeth besmearing his face, thinking "None
+may recognise me in this day of trouble." And, O exalted one, Nakula goeth
+staining himself with dust thinking, "Lest otherwise I steal the hearts of
+the ladies that may look at me." And Draupadi goeth, attired in one piece
+of stained cloth, her hair dishevelled, and weeping, signifying--"The
+wives of those for whom I have been reduced to such a plight, shall on the
+fourteenth year hence be deprived of husbands, sons and relatives and dear
+ones and smeared all over with blood, with hair dishevelled and all in
+their feminine seasons enter Hastinapore having offered oblations of water
+(unto the manes of those they will have lost)." And O Bharata, the learned
+Dhaumya with passions under full control, holding the kusa grass in his
+hand and pointing the same towards the south-west, walketh before, singing
+the mantras of the Sama Veda that relate to Yama. And, O monarch, that
+learned Brahamana goeth, also signifying, "When the Bharatas shall be
+slain in battle, the priests of the Kurus will thus sing the Soma mantras
+(for the benefit of the deceased)." And the citizens, afflicted with great
+grief, are repeatedly crying out, "Alas, alas, behold our masters are
+going away! O fie on the Kuru elders that have acted like foolish children
+in thus banishing heirs of Pandu from covetousness alone. Alas, separated
+from the son of Pandu we all shall become masterless. What love can we
+bear to the wicked and avaricious Kurus?" Thus O king, have the sons of
+Kunti, endued with great energy of mind, gone away,--indicating, by manner
+and signs, the resolutions that are in their hearts. And as those foremost
+of men had gone away from Hastinapore, flashes of lightning appeared in
+the sky though without clouds and the earth itself began to tremble. And
+Rahu came to devour the Sun, although it was not the day of conjunction.
+And meteors began to fall, keeping the city to their right. And jackals
+and vultures and ravens and other carnivorous beasts and birds began to
+shriek and cry aloud from the temples of the gods and the tops of sacred
+trees and walls and house-tops. And these extraordinary calamitous
+portents, O king, were seen and heard, indicating the destruction of the
+Bharatas as the consequence of thy evil counsels.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"And, O monarch, while king Dhritarashtra and the
+wise Vidura were thus talking with each other, there appeared in that
+assembly of the Kauravas and before the eyes of all, the best of the
+celestial Rishis. And appearing before them all, he uttered these terrible
+words, On the fourteenth year hence, the Kauravas, in consequence of
+Duryodhana's fault, will all be destroyed by the might of Bhima and
+Arjuna. And having said this, that best of celestial Rishis, adorned with
+surpassing Vedic grace, passing through the skies, disappeared from the
+scene. Then Duryodhana and Karna and Sakuni, the son of Suvala regarding
+Drona as their sole refuge, offered the kingdom to him. Drona then,
+addressing the envious and wrathful Duryodhana and Dussasana and Karna and
+all the Bharata, said, 'The Brahamanas have said that the Pandavas being
+of celestial origin are incapable of being slain. The sons of
+Dhritarashtra, however, having, with all the kings, heartily and with
+reverence sought my protection, I shall look after them to the best of my
+power. Destiny is supreme, I cannot abandon them. The sons of Pandu,
+defeated at dice, are going into exile in pursuance of their promise. They
+will live in the woods for twelve years. Practising the Brahmacharyya mode
+of life for this period, they will return in anger and to our great grief
+take the amplest vengeance on their foes. I had formerly deprived Drupada
+of his kingdom in a friendly dispute. Robbed of his kingdom by me, O
+Bharata, the king performed a sacrifice for obtaining a son (that should
+slay me). Aided by the ascetic power of Yaja and Upayaja, Drupada obtained
+from the (sacrificial) fire a son named Dhrishtadyumna and a daughter,
+viz., the faultless Krishna, both risen from the sacrificial platform.
+That Dhrishtadyumna is the brother-in-law of the sons of Pandu by
+marriage, and dear unto them. It is for him, therefore that I have much
+fear. Of celestial origin and resplendent as the fire, he was born with
+bow, arrows, and encased in mail. I am a being that is mortal. Therefore
+it is for him that I have great fear. That slayer of all foes, the son of
+Parshatta, hath taken the side of the Pandavas. I shall have to lose my
+life, if he and I ever encounter each other in battle. What grief can be
+greater to me in this world than this, ye Kauravas that Dhrishtadyumna is
+the destined slayer of Drona--this belief is general. That he hath been
+born for slaying me hath been heard by me and is widely known also in the
+world. For thy sake, O Duryodhana, that terrible season of destruction is
+almost come. Do without loss of time, what may be beneficial unto thee.
+Think not that everything hath been accomplished by sending the Pandavas
+into exile. This thy happiness will last for but a moment, even as in
+winter the shadow of the top of the palm tree resteth (for a short time)
+at its base. Perform various kinds of sacrifices, and enjoy, and give O
+Bharata, everything thou likest. On the fourteenth year hence, a great
+calamity will overwhelm thee.'"
+
+Vaisampayana continued,--"Hearing these words of Drona, Dhritarashtra
+said,--'O Kshatta, the preceptor hath uttered what is true. Go thou and
+bring back the Pandavas. If they do not come back, let them go treated
+with respect and affection. Let those my sons go with weapons, and cars,
+and infantry, and enjoying every other good thing.'"
+
+
+SECTION LXXX
+
+Vaisampayana said,--"defeated at dice, after the Pandavas had gone to the
+woods, Dhritarashtra, O king, was overcome with anxiety. And while he was
+seated restless with anxiety and sighing in grief, Sanjaya approaching him
+said, 'O lord of the earth having now obtained the whole earth with all
+its wealth and sent away the sons of Pandu into exile, why is it, O king,
+that thou grievest so?'
+
+"Dhritarashtra said,--'What have they not to grieve for who will have to
+encounter in battle those bulls among warriors--the sons of Pandu--
+fighting on great cars and aided by allies?'
+
+"Sanjaya said,--'O king, all this great hostility is inevitable on account
+of thy mistaken action, and this will assuredly bring about the wholesale
+destruction of the whole world. Forbidden by Bhishma, by Drona, and by
+Vidura, thy wicked-minded and shameless son Duryodhana sent his Suta
+messenger commanding him to bring into court the beloved and virtuous wife
+of the Pandavas. The gods first deprive that man of his reason unto whom
+they send defeat and disgrace. It is for this that such a person seeth
+things in a strange light. When destruction is at hand, evil appeareth as
+good unto the understanding polluted by sin, and the man adhereth to it
+firmly. That which is improper appeareth as proper, and that which is
+proper appeareth as improper unto the man about to be overwhelmed by
+destruction, and evil and impropriety are what he liketh. The time that
+bringeth on destruction doth not come with upraised club and smash one's
+head. On the other hand the peculiarity of such a time is that it maketh a
+man behold evil in good and good in evil. The wretches have brought on
+themselves this terrible, wholesale, and horrible destruction by dragging
+the helpless princess of Panchala into the court. Who else than
+Duryodhana--that false player of dice could bring into the assembly, with
+insults, the daughter of Drupada, endued with beauty and intelligence, and
+conversant with every rule of morality and duty, and sprung not from any
+woman's womb but from the sacred fire? The handsome Krishna, then in her
+season, attired in one piece of stained cloth when brought into the court
+cast her eyes upon the Pandavas. She beheld them, however, robbed of their
+wealth, of their kingdom, of even their attire, of their beauty, of every
+enjoyment, and plunged into a state of bondage. Bound by the tie of
+virtue, they were then unable to exert their prowess. And before all the
+assembled kings Duryodhana and Karna spake cruel and harsh words unto the
+distressed and enraged Krishna undeserving of such treatment. O monarch,
+all this appeareth to me as foreboding fearful consequences.'
+
+"Dhritarashtra said,--'O Sanjaya, the glances of the distressed daughter
+of Drupada might consume the whole earth. Can it be possible that even a
+single son of mine will live? The wives of the Bharatas, uniting with
+Gandhari upon beholding virtuous Krishna, the wedded wife of the Pandavas,
+endued with beauty and youth, dragged into the court, set up frightful
+wail. Even now, along with all my subjects, they weep every day. Enraged
+at the ill treatment of Draupadi, the Brahmanas in a body did not perform
+that evening their Agnihotra ceremony. The winds blew mightily as they did
+at the time of the universal dissolution. There was a terrible thunder-
+storm also. Meteors fell from the sky, and Rahu by swallowing the Sun
+unseasonably alarmed the people terribly. Our war-chariots were suddenly
+ablaze, and all their flagstaffs fell down foreboding evil unto the
+Bharatas. Jackals began to cry frightfully from within the sacred fire-
+chamber of Duryodhana, and asses from all directions began to bray in
+response. Then Bhishma and Drona, and Kripa, and Somadatta and the high-
+souled Vahlika, all left the assembly. It was then that at the advice of
+Vidura I addressed Krishna and said, "I will grant thee boons, O Krishna,
+indeed, whatever thou wouldst ask?" The princess of the Panchala there
+begged of me the liberation of the Pandavas. Out of my own motion I then
+set free the Pandavas, commanding them to return (to their capital) on
+their cars and with their bows and arrows. It was then that Vidura told
+me, "Even this will prove the destruction of the Bharata race, viz., this
+dragging of Krishna into the court. This daughter of the King of Panchala
+is the faultless Sree herself. Of celestial origin, she is the wedded wife
+of the Pandavas. The wrathful sons of Pandu will never forgive this insult
+offered unto her. Nor will the mighty bowmen of the Vrishni race, nor the
+mighty warriors amongst the Panchalas suffer this in silence. Supported by
+Vasudeva of unbaffled prowess, Arjuna will assuredly come back, surrounded
+by the Panchala host. And that mighty warrior amongst them, Bhimasena
+endued with surpassing strength, will also come back, whirling his mace
+like Yama himself with his club. These kings will scarcely be able to bear
+the force of Bhima's mace. Therefore, O king, not hostility but peace for
+ever with the sons of Pandu is what seemeth to me to be the best. The sons
+of Pandu are always stronger than the Kurus. Thou knowest, O king, that
+the illustrious and mighty king Jarasandha was slain in battle by Bhima
+with his bare arms alone. Therefore, O bull of the Bharata race, it
+behoveth thee to make peace with the sons of Pandu. Without scruples of
+any kind, unite the two parties, O king. And if thou actest in this way,
+thou art sure to obtain good luck, O king." It was thus, O son of
+Gavalgani, that Vidura addressed me in words of both virtue and profit.
+And I did not accept this counsel, moved by affection for my son.'"
+
+The End of Sabha Parva
+
+
+
+
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK, THE MAHABHARATA OF KRISHNA-DWAIPAYANA VYASA, PART 2 ***
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