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Monday, April 8, 2024
Contents
Introduction
TopWhen you start the journey into Bhagavata, you begin with a namaskara. "na" means absent. "ma" means ego. So by namaskara it is meant that we give up ego when wishing someone
We pray to the almighty who is responsible for creation, maintenance and destruction of the universe; is self-effulgent; gave Lord Brahma the vedas; encompasses the Devas; unlike the mirage is alway true; is not conceited.
Bhagavata is written by the sage Vyasa where he described the devotion of beings without any conceit or deception. Bhagavata will eliminate bondage and set a goal to life. It is ever truthful and auspicious. When there are other epics like Ramayana and Maha Bharata where is the need for a new epic? Bhagavata is the heart of the almighty. Those who listen to or read it with devotion will attain the paramatma.
In Bhagavata salvation is the central topic. Since the paramatma alone can offer salvation, it won't dwell into things that don't pertain to salvation. That means it is self-effacing. Therefore, the reader or listener will be free from conceit. Such people are humble and truthful.
Bhagavata takes away duality and destroys bonds. Those who read Bhagavata will attain salvation without rebirth.
Bhagavata gives us the knowledge about Brahman who is not a novel thing. Everything we see, touch, taste, hear, inhale is because of Brahman. If Brahman is not experienced by us, it is because of our ignorance. Without a clean conscience, it is impossible to realize Brahman. So Bhagavata introduced several devotional aspects that give us the ability to realize Brahman. When Bhagavata is there, where is the need for other epics?
Devotees! Bhagavata is the sacred fruit of vedas. It was narrated by the Suka maharshi. It is without death. One has to try again and again to imbibe it.
Being a fruit of vedas, there is nothing to reject in Bhagavata. It is as ripe as a fruit pecked by a parrot. It is not the amrit imbibed by the Devas. The sage Suka offered the Bhagavata elixir in exchange for the amrit which is far inferior. This is done as per the wish of Devas who can't get this elixir in heaven.
By imbibing the elixir of Bhagavata, king Pareekshit attained salvation. That's why Sage Vyasa advises us to read Bhagavata again and again so that we may attain salvation.
A number of devotees think Bhagavata itself is one of the forms of paramatma. Its origin is traced to a cave in Amarnath. In Kousika samhita, it was stated that in the Amarnath cave Lord Siva narrated Bhagavata to his consort Parvati Devi.
At the beginning of Bhagavata, Sage Vyasa paid homage to paramatma. Similarly he ends Bhagavata with a homage to Paramatma.
The Bhagavata ends with a prayer to Lord Vishnu as the destroyer of all travails and tribulations.
Bhagavata does not just pray to avoid unhappy things but to put an end to them because the fruits of all of our past karma need to be experienced in this life. When one reads an epic like Bhagavata, the degree of sadness felt when carrying out karma is diminished.
Stalwarts like Budha, Sankara, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Vivekananda, et al. were also subjected to unhappiness. But they never physically experienced its pain and were always in joy.
Once a devotee addressing Ramakrishna said "If you get surgery done, then you will return to a healthful state". To which Ramakrishna replied "I gave my mind to the mother of the universe. How can I think about surgery? How can I apply my mind to this body that is nothing but flesh and blood. I am happy the way I am".
It is not the unhappiness that troubles us. But the feeling that we are unhappy makes us miserable. Unhappiness is a phase in life that makes us resilient and prepared.
When we are happy we seldom pray to paramatma. If we are in the habit of praying to Paramatma everyday then even unhappiness is welcome. Lord Sri Krishna sticks with us through thick and thin, especially when suffering. When Pandavas were in difficult times, Lord Sri Krishna stuck with them. Similarly after leaving Vraja pura, where the Lord spent his childhood, Gopikas felt abandoned and the Lord gave them salvation. So a staunch devotee is never afraid of suffering and gladly welcomes it fully knowing that the paramatma will give enough strength to tide over it.
Once the mother of Pandavas, Kunti, was melancholic seeing her sons ending up in the forests while the Kauravas were ruling their kingdom. She prayed to Lord Sri Krishna and the Lord appeared before her.
The Lord asked her to seek a boon.
Kunti said "I am blessed by your appearance. Please make this suffering last for ever".
The Lord said: "O mother, your wish is very strange. Everyone asks for happiness. I don't understand why you seek suffering".
"O the King of Yadavas, is there anything you don't know? When I was living in the palace at Hastinapura I never thought about you. Ensconced in riches my mind didn't focus on you. Today, bereft of all riches, I am praying to you. I feel the riches that take me away from you are unwanted. Therefore, please grant me suffering that keeps my mind focused on you." said Kunti.
Auspicious Beginning
TopIn Naimisa forest Rishi Sounaka and other rishis gathered to perform a yagna for the pleasure of Sri Hari. Sage Vyasa's disciple Soota came to visit them.
It was early in the morning before the sun rose. Cool winds were blowing. Nightingales were singing. The air was fragrant. Peacocks and other birds were dancing and singing
All the sages gathered around Soota.
"O great rishi! You have learnt epics from your guru. You also teach about them. You are as enlightened as your guru Vyasa. Please teach us what you have learnt" said Sounaka and other rishis.
Only with the tutelage under a guru can the disciple learn the scripture. Lone efforts may not be fruitful. Soota has served his guru and attained enlightenment. He not only absorbed the teachings of guru, he was also spreading the knowledge.
The noble are those who not only attain enlightenment but also help others achieve enlightenment.They are free of sins and follow dharma. Merely listening to their preachings will cleanse souls.
A guru is one who has already cleansed his sin. A disciple tries to cleanse his sins. A real guru never commits sin. His disciple will be too afraid to commit sin.
A wretched one will be far removed from paramatma. He cannot have a clear conscience. Sometimes he weeps at his wretched life. A real sinner is one who never tries for salvation. Just as it is impossible to find anything in a dark room, it is impossible to find paramatma in the wretched person's heart. So effort has to be made to preach the Bhagavata thereby enhancing the devotion to the Lord. Some listeners are very attentive during preachings. But when it comes to action, they fail to follow them. It is because of their sins.
With sunlight, darkness is dispelled. Similarly in a guru-disciple tutelage, the sin is cleansed. A sin-free guru and a disciple who is too afraid to commit sin, create an idle atmosphere for learning. Hence their hermitage is free of sins. Such hermitages in turn become holy pilgrimage sites.
Some unfortunate people can't visit holy pilgrim sites. When they have money, they can seek entertainment. Only with fortune can one visit the holy sites.
Kali yuga is filled with short-lived, ill mannered, low lives. So it is imperative that they be enlightened. Sounaka and other rishis were seeking such enlightenment from Soota.
There are so many attainable objects in this world. God is also one such thing. But lazy ones have no such desire. They are very unfortunate. Bhagavata will help such lazy ones attain salvation by freeing their bonds and cleansing their conscience. It offers complete peace.
The tales of the Lord are as pleasure giving as a sweet. Whereas a sweet doesn't last long, the Lord's tales will be sweetening us forever. The more we imbibe the more we want to hear them. When a tree is watered at the roots, it will look healthy green. Similarly when the tales of the Lord enter our ears, we will be enlightened. We will be free from the dependence on the ephemeral body and will stay focused on the infinite god. Listening to Bhagavata will also free us from anger and lust. The conscience will be made clean. The obstacles to salvation will be removed. We will be kind to others and achieve great satisfaction.
The antagonistic feelings, emotions, actions won't stop without the exposure to the Lord's tales. The mind will be focused on the Lord when we listen to his tales.When we imagine the form of the Lord our heart rejoices and eyes water. Only listening to Lord's tales can generate such auspicious feelings. The devotion attained by the Lord's tales will help us tide over the worldly bonds.
"O the great rishi Soota! We have realized that Kali yuga has begun. That's why we gathered in the Naimisa forest to perform a yagna. It is the only way we figured to tide over the Kali's adverse effects. We are keen to listen to the stories of Sri Hari. No matter how many times we listen to such stories we are not satisfied. Our hearts seek more and more.
"Lord Vishnu has donned the Sri Krishna avatara to rescue his devotees. You know all about Sri Krishna avatar. We are prepared to listen to you attentively. It is by the grace of God that we have you in our midst."
The river Ganga is holy. But the story of Lord Krishna is holier. Ganga's water only cleanses the body by contact. Whereas by the mere sighting of a holy person one's mind and body are cleansed. Just as an able sailor can navigate the boat in bad weather, the tutelage of the holy people will help us maneuver over our lives.
Significance of Bhakti
Top"O holy Soota, the son of Roma Harsha, at the demise of Krishna avatara where did dharma go? Whom did it approach?"
To please the Sanaka and other rishis, Soota was about to deliver his lecture on Bhagavata. Before that he said a prayer to Suka maharshi as it was customary to pray to the gurus.
The Sage Suka, the son of Vyasa, when still in his mother's womb did not emerge for sixteen years. Vyasa asked him "O son, how long are you going to stay in the womb? Why aren't you coming out?"
Suka replied "I am not interested in the trappings of the world. It is full of ignorance. It is a vicious circle. The world is the making of maya. I am not ready to experience it. Hence I am reluctant to come out".
Who is a noble one? One who is afraid of committing sins. The real devotees are the ones who are afraid of sins and lead a pious life.
Some people perform a plethora of religious rites while committing sins. Paramatma won't help them because he is not fooled by the offerings but looks into the actions.
Being aware of Suka's dilemma, the Lord blessed him. The Lord told Suka his devotees cannot commit sins. Sri Suka, assured by the Lord, came out of his mother's womb.
Even before Suka was born his devotion to the Lord arose. So he went in search of the Lord soon after he was born. He selected a place to carry on his search by meditation and wandering into the forest.
Some people lead a sinful life till their death. Those who seek the answer to the question "Why am I born?" become noble souls.
Suka's trysts made his mother worry. She was unable to bear the separation from him. So she beseeched her husband Vyasa to stop Suka's wanderings.
"The ones we cherish the most, should be offered to the Lord. Suka is very dear to us. It is better to let him search for paramatma" said the omniscient Vyasa. This however did not end his wife's worrying.
One should have renunciation along with devotion. One who doesn't return to the Lord what he has received from him is committing sin. Some people are ardent devotees. But they are too afraid to renounce something. Such people are flowers sans fragrance. When a devotee has the spirit of renunciation, then he will be like a fragrant flower.
Suka's mother was very much worried. Even Vyasa was beginning to get worried after seeing his son wander. One day he went after Suka calling out "O son! O son!". The trees along his path also echoed him. Thus soota reminisced before beginning the Bhagavata thereby offering his obeisance to Suka.
The trees along the path of Vyasa echoed his calling to Suka. There are some important spiritual aspects to this.
Just as the dear son of Vyasa was leaving him, everyday the birds that dwell on the trees leave in search of food. Who can enjoy a world full of travail and strife? So the trees were consoling Vyasa.
Just as man and wife procreate, the trees generate fruits. The fruits are for the birds. The trees have no use for them. When we offer what is dearest to the Lord, we become noble.
The trees were saying to Vyasa, "We offer the fruits, which are like our offspring, to others. Similarly offer your son Suka for the welfare of others. Don't cry". Vyasa's heart filled with kindness, moved the hearts of the trees and made them echo "O son! O son!". Thus meditating over Suka, Soota began the Bhagavata.
"Bhagavata which is the essence of vedas, scripture and self experience is being told to dispel the ignorance of devotees upon their wish with the blessing of Sage Suka who is the guru for all the sages and son of the great Vyasa" said Soota in prayer to Suka.
"After praying to Lord, Goddess Saraswati, Sage Vyasa I am going to unfold Bhagavata that helps the listeners cross the ocean of life," said Soota.
"O sages! You have sought the knowledge that brings auspiciousness to the world. Dharma is very subtle. When the mind is rested on Lord Sri Krishna, such dharma is the most preferred. The open minded devotees are the perfect ones. By listening to the Bhagavata, the devotees attain purity in their hearts" said Soota.
When we hear the tales about the Lord, our interest in him grows manifold. One has to be very attentive while listening. Otherwise there is no focus. Those who put effort to gain one track mind while listening, will receive the grace of the Lord. They will be blessed with pure knowledge.
Soota said, "The devotion to Vasu Deva will make us renounce worldly things and seek true knowledge".
The one who is disinterested in Bhagavata, no matter how much dharma he adheres to cannot attain salvation. He will only obtain the fruit of his karma. Among dharma, wealth and desire, he will obtain one or all but not salvation. So no matter which dharma one adopts, one has to keep his mind focused on the Lord. The great sages attain salvation thus.
"One has to be steadfast in devotion to Paramatma. He has to give up worldly pleasures. Devotion will mitigate the desires and enhance the pleasure of thinking about the Lord. It will also lessen the involvement in extraneous things. Thus," said Soota, "one has to attain a focused mind full of devotion to the Lord."
One has to sever the bonds with the sword called Bhagavata. There is no need to renounce karma. It is ideal to give up desire. The memories from the past lives create cravings that need to be surmounted. When the meditation on the Lord is uninterrupted, then it means the desires are overcome. This leads to peace and perennial joy.
It is not a sin to eat food. But it is a sin when it is not offered to the Lord first. After it is offered to the Lord it is no longer ordinary food but a holy offering that rejuvenates the mind and body.
Pilgrimage, service to guru and devotees, listening to Bhagavata will mitigate the sin and eradicate the memories from past lives and those from the present life emanating from gunas. Devotion will clean the conscience and prepare the body and mind for enlightenment. Just as a building cannot stand without a foundation, there is no knowledge without devotion. Such knowledge is all from Vasu Deva's effulgence.
The real knowledge is about the Lord; the real penance is about the Lord; the real dharma is the one attributed to the Lord. Thus Soota informed the gathering of rishis about the devotion to the Lord in preparation for the description of his avataras.
The real form of the Lord is devoid of attributes. For the sake of devotees he assumes various forms. There are twenty four such forms that have descended on the earth.
Lord's Avataras
TopThe quintessence of Bhagavata is Sri Krishna's story. It appears in the tenth skanda. In this skanda Soota mentions briefly the various avataras.
When the unmanifest appears visible to us, then it is called an avatar. It literally means descending to the earth. The formless Lord appears with attributes and gunas when he arrives on earth as an avatar. Where will he be born? Where from he manifests? Won't the infinite Lord become finite when he is born? How can a finite avatara represent the vast formless unmanifest Lord? When the Lord is infinite everything is from him and because of him. In this non-dualistic mode of thinking, the avatara hasn't manifested. It is only our ignorance that is dispelled. The non-dualist sees everything as an avatara of the Lord.
There is a huge difference between our birth and the birth of the Lord. When we are born it is because of the accumulated karma from the past lives. We are attached to the yoke of life and don't have the freedom to digress from a set pattern of life in bondage. But an avatara has no accumulated karma. So it is free from bondage.
Lord dons an avatara to emancipate us with his maya. When an avatara appears people are confused about its significance. "What karma will the one who has no karma perform?" is one lingering doubt in our minds. The avatara is prompted in response to the sins committed by various people. Just as we attain our birth based on karma from previous lives, the Lord gives retribution to the wicked because of whom he had to assume an avatar.
The reason for Lord Rama avatara is not only Ravana's sinful ways but also Vibheeshana's nobility. For Lord Krishna avatara it is not just the Rukmini Devi's devotion but also Sisupala's wickedness. We reap our karma and experience its fruits. Devotees are inspired by the appearance of the avatar. The wicked are eliminated by the avatar. Thus the avataras maintain the balance of dharma and stabilize the earth.
Lord Krishna said in gnana yoga of Bhagavad Gita "Arjuna, the one who fully realizes my birth and karma, attains me after leaving his body".
Bhagavad Gita furthermore says the punishment of the wretched and the protection of the noble as the paramount reason for an avatar. How can punishing the wicked Ravana or the wretched Kamsa thousands of years ago, help us in the present times?
The wickedness is not external but within us. When we eliminate wicked thoughts, we see the world as the manifestation of the Lord. There are no demons outside but inside to torment us. The bad thoughts, haunting memories are the real asuras. An avatara helps us eliminate our negative thoughts and propel us toward positivity by increasing our good qualities. Therefore Lord dons an avatara inside our hearts when the time is ripe. The realization and reconciliation of the external avatara with the inner world is the real impetus. To light up the heart, there is a need for a stimulus from outside. With his maya Sri Hari dons uncountable or infinite avataras.
The details of various avataras are as old as the vedas. They appear in the puranas which are considered as Lord's exhalations by the Brihadaranyaka upanishad. So the real essence of puranas needs to be grasped. Purana literally means the one understood in a new light. Hence one has to apply the scientific knowledge to grasp puranas whose settings predate us by several thousands of years.
Soota was narrating the details of Lord's avataras. He told Sounaka and other rishis that the Lord appeared as Sanaka, Sananda et al.
The first avatara of Lord extolled celibacy. Without celibacy one can't experience the creator. A disciple should necessarily practice celibacy. The loss of vital life force brings us closer to death. The food we eat is digested and absorbed into the blood, flesh and eventually the vital force. So there is no one center in the body for the vital force. It is all over the body and creates an aura around it. Without the vital force, the body withers away.
It was said in Susruta's manual of medicine: "Just as butter is hidden in the milk, jaggery is within sugar cane, the vital force is all over the body." Because of celibacy Hanuman was able to fly over the ocean to reach Lanka; Bhishma was able to choose his time of death; Lord Rama and Lakshmana were able to kill Indrajit. The practitioners of spirituality must be celibate to receive the fruits of their hard work. With celibacy one could also control the senses.
There is another interpretation of celibacy. In Sanskrit the word for celibacy also means vedas. This gives the interpretation that one has to recite vedas. A celibate person has to control his senses and recite the scripture. The Lord's first avatara of Sanaka, Sananda et al. were naked and looked like young children. Their celibacy was unparalleled.
Lord's next avatara was a varaha or a boar. In Sanskrit "vara" means exalted and "ava" means day. Varaha means an auspicious day. So what is an auspicious day?
Whenever devotion overflows in our hearts that is an auspicious day. Varaha ends the covetousness associated with devotion. Varaha slayed a demon called Hiranyaksha to bring peace and tranquility on earth.
Hiranyaksha means one whose sight is on gold. It means acquisitiveness and possessiveness. Hiranyaksha ran away with earth. This shows his covetousness.
When devotion arises in our hearts, it makes us renounce unwanted things. Just as sun rise drives away darkness, renunciation eliminates covetousness. This is the essence of Varaha avatar. One has to be content with what one has and not clamor for more than necessary. Celibacy, sacrifice, satisfaction are the attributes of a devotee.
The next avatara is Narada which literally means someone who imparts knowledge. Blind belief is not wanted. Devotion with knowledge is more stable. With devotion it is possible to attain salvation. The goal of devotion is to merge in paramatma.
The fourth avatara is Nara-Narayana. They were born to Dharma and his wife Moorthy and did great penance. Paramatma can only be known through meditation and penance. People clamor for money but not everyone shows the same interest in paramatma. It is not possible to love God without first renouncing the desire for ephemeral things. Without renunciation, devotion will be weak.
The fifth avatara is called Kapila. In this avatara penance with renunciation, devotion and knowledge are demonstrated. Kapila preaches to his mother, Devahuti, about the spiritual matters. It is famously called "Kapila Gita".
The sixth avatara of the Lord is Dattatreya who was born to Atri and Anasuya. Anasuya means one without jealosy. He wrote Avadhoota Gita and Jeevanmukta Gita. He also gave a sermon to Prahlada.
Lord Krishna said to Arjuna in Gita, "You being without jealousy, I tell you secret knowledge that elevates you and takes you away from inauspiciousness" So paramatma is biased against jealous people.
After attaining knowledge one assumes the form of yagna. Lord was born to Ruchi and Akuti in the form of yagna. This is the seventh avatar.
Knowledge and yagna symbolize sacrifice. So together they imply sanyasa. Lord was born as Rushabha Deva to teach the duties of a paramahamsa.
Some people are born to serve others. They see the happiness in others and feel it as their own. They always aspire for good things to happen in the world. This is the essence of King Prudhu's avatar. After hearing appeals from rishis, the Lord in this avatara extracted medicinal plants from the earth. Soota said this is a very beautiful avatar.
In Matsyavatara or fish avatar, the Lord killed the demon Hayagriva thereby saving his devotee Satyavrata. He also recovered vedas stolen from Brahma Deva. Thus he restored dharma on earth.
In Koormavatara or tortoise avatar, Lord bore the weight of Mount Mandara that was used to churn the milky ocean by the Devas and Asuras. This avatara means devotion to the Lord protects the devotee from sinking with his memories retained from the past lives. This is the eleventh avatara of the Lord.
The next avatara of the Lord is Dhanvantari who emerged from the milky ocean as Devas and Asuras were churning it holding in his hands eixir (amrit). He represents the outcome of a devotee's unflinching dedication to the Lord.
The thirteenth avatara is Mohini who distributes elixir among Devas, denying the Asuras. It is a beautiful avatara that tells us to renounce negative feelings and enhance positivity of mind.
The fourteenth avatara is Nrusimha. He slayed the demon Hiranyakasipu who was granted a boon by Brahma Deva. As per the boon he could not be killed at night or in day; inside or outside; by animals or men. Lord assumed the form of half-lion and half-man to annihilate Hiranyakasipu and save his devotee Prahlada, the son of Hiranyakasipu, who was being tortured by his father. The avatara emphasizes that ego cannot be killed easily where Hiranyakasipu represents the ego.
The fifteenth avatara is Vamana. In this avatara the Lord hoodwinks the King Bali to part with his kingdom and save the Devas. There was no blood shed in this avatar.
The fourteenth avatara is Parasurama. He was also called Bhargavaram. At the beginning of treta yuga Parasurama went about killing the kings. He attacked the royals who hated Devas and brahmins twenty one times.
The seventeenth avatara is Veda Vyasa who was born to Parasara and Satyavati. He edited vedas, wrote eighteen puranas, gave us Bharata, Bhagavata, Brahma Sutras among others. Sanatana dharma would not have existed without his contribution.
Sri Rama is the eighteenth avatar. Lord Rama is epitome of dharma. He was an ideal son, king, husband, friend, disciple, guru, brother, enemy and so on. He is the role model to many to this day.
In nineteenth and twentieth avataras the Lord was born as Balararama and Sri Krishna. Together they rid the earth of demons and wicked people. Sri Krishna was also called Poorna avatara meaning he is the most exalted being.
Budha is the twenty-first avatar. At the time of writing the Bhagavata, this avatara didn't exist. Soota predicted that this avatara would grace the earth. Budha sacrificed his kingdom and became a role model with his kindness and compassion.
The twenty second avatara is Kalki. This will appear at the end of the Kali yuga, when dharma will be completely eradicated. It was predicted that the Lord would be born to a brahmin called Vishnuyasu in a place called Sambala. Thus there are innumerable avataras of the Lord. By knowing about these important avataras one will be cleansed of sin.
The non-believers limit the infinite Lord to a body. Like the clouds in the sky, dust in the air, they see the Lord confined to a body. The quest is to see the Lord in all manifestations.
Like those who can't discern an actor from his real self, the omnipresent Lord is not felt by the ignorant ones. Those who see the existence of the Lord in all manifestations are exalted beings. Those devotees who worship the Lord with pure hearts attain the Lord.
Soota continued his discourse. Veda Vyasa wrote the Bhagavata. After Sri Krishna renounced his avatara at the beginning of Kali yuga, the earthlings were run over by ignorance. To emancipate such souls, the auspicious Bhagavata emerged. It is like the sun that dispels darkness.
Vyasa churned the vedas and ithasasa and extracted the butter called Bhagavata. He passed it on to his son Suka.
Suka, surrounded by other rishis, gave the Bhagavata discourse to the King Pareekshit who was about to kill himself by drowning in river Ganga. Soota was one of the rishis who listened to the discourse.
Soota said "Sounaka and other rishis, I listened to the discourse on Bhagavata given by Sri Suka. Because of his kindness I absorbed some of it. I will lecture on it as per your wish."
The rishis said "Soota, in which yuga was this auspicious Bhagavata written? Where else was it discussed? Why did Vyasa write this? We heard about Vyasa's son Suka yogi. He is a genius and capable of non-duality."
When Suka was going to the forest, a group of apsarasas were frolicking in a lake. At the time, Suka shone with youthful vigor. Apsarasas saw him but ignored him.
Sometime later Vyasa came there searching for his son. As soon as the apsarasa saw him, they ran and got dressed.
Vyasa was puzzled by the apsarasas' action. He asked "You did not feel abashed when my youthful son passed by. But now as I pass by you are abashed. Why?"
The apsarasas replied "Even though your son is a youth, he never questioned us. He is an elderly person in our view. That's why we were not abashed. But you saw us and asked us several questions".
Suka didn't discriminate. There was no feeling in him for women. He only saw divinity in one and all.
Sounaka et al asked "Soota, how did Suka reach the banks of river Ganga? He is not known to linger in households for more than a few moments. How did such a noble person stay on the banks of Ganga for seven days? Please tell us about King Pareekshit to whom Soota preached Bhagavata".
In response to Sounaka and rishis, Soota was revealing the motivation for Bhagavata and the aim it purports to achieve.
Vyasa's Melancholy
TopAs the Dwapara yuga was ending, the son of Satyvati, Vyasa carried out ablutions in the river Saraswati and sat in meditation in his Badarika ashram.
Vyasa reorganized vedas, wrote eighteen puranas, Brahma Sutras, etc. He was well known as Veda Vyasa.
At the time Sage Narada was passing by and noticed the forlorn face of Vyasa. He asked "O Son of Parasara, why is your face so long? How can melancholy creep into your mind?"
Vyasa replied "O Sage Narada, even I don't understand. You travel in the three lokas. You are omniscient. You move like air in all lokas. You are born from Brahma. You praise Lord Vishnu. You stepped auspiciously in all directions. You are the most learned".
"O King among the ascetics, you know all about dharma. You have experienced all situations. You surely will know the reason for my melancholy. Kindly reveal it to me", said Vyasa.
Narada replied, "O great sage, you wrote about dharma, wealth and desire in Bharata and puranas. You have not written about the eclectic deeds of Lord Vishnu that are worthy of great praise and lead to salvation."
"O great sage! you have written about the esoteric aspects of vedas but forgot to write about devotion. No matter how much knowledge one has, without devotion there will be no salvation. Your melancholy is because you have not praised the amazing qualities of the Lord. So write Bhagavata in praise of Lord Vishnu and get rid of your melancholy", said Narada.
"One cannot obtain knowledge that transcends physical dimensions without devotion toward Lord Vishnu. An act done without offering its fruits to Eswara won't endear Eswara. Devotion-less karma and knowledge are useless. So write about the escapades of Vasudeva that releases the listeners from the material bonds. A devotee won't be caught in the material bonds when he is subservient to the Lord."
Thus Narada spoke and started revealing his previous life.
Narada's Past Lives
TopAll auspicious karma is to praise the Lord Sri Hari. Penance, reading Vedas, performing yagna, offering alms are meant to praise the positive attributes of Sri Hari.
In his previous life, Narada was born to a maid who was serving a pious brahmin woman. Once during the rainy season, the brahmin family was performing a vedic ritual. Narada was serving the family.
Narada refrained from childhood games. He gained control over his senses. He spoke very little. The brahmin family liked his behavior and looked after him with loving care. Sometimes they gave him the leftover food. Narada accepted it as a holy offering. As a result he attained purity of heart. He developed a deep interest in the Lord's tales.
During the fire rituals, the brahmins praised Lord Krishna everyday. Narada used to listen to the songs praising the Lord. Gradually a deep devotion for the Lord began in Narada. His intellect had stabilized and the shortcomings of gunas were nullified. At the end of the fire ritual, the brahmins gave advice to Narada.
"From that moment on, I decided to serve the Lord. I vowed to dedicate myself to his service. Actions are no longer obstacles to me"
"O Vyasa, just as food that causes illness and exacerbates disease isn't helpful, the ignorant acts won't liberate a person from bondage. The food that causes illness when mixed with healthy food, cannot exacerbate disease with the same vigor when taken alone. Similarly karma causes bondage that traps us. When we perform karma and offer its fruits to Eswara, it purifies our mind and paves the way for salvation"
"O great sage, thus I was serving Lord Krishna who bestowed me with the wealth of knowledge", said Narada. Vyasa wanted to know the rest of the story.
One day Narada's mother was walking toward a cow to milk it. On the way she was bitten by a poisonous snake resulting in her death. Narada accepted it as divine will. Later Narada went northward. He was meditating under a tree. Lord Sri Hari appeared in his mind. Narada was amazed at the feeling. His eyes were watering. Then Sri Hari disappeared.
Narada felt sad. Seeking another vision of the Lord, he was crying. Then he heard the disembodied voice of Sri Hari say "Dear child, you cannot see me in this birth. The mind full of past memories cannot visualize me. To encourage devotion toward me, I appeared in your mind's eye. By offering service to noble people your mind is purified. You will be my servant after renouncing your body and attaining devotion"
From then on Narada unabashedly started praising the Lord and reminiscing about the Lord's stories. He gave up ego and broke his bonds. He got rid of desires and got disembodied. Then he became Lord Vishnu's servant.
"O Vyasa, I told you the cause of your melancholy. I have also described my karma in previous lives and the significance of my present birth" said Naarada and left the place singing praises to the Lord. Soota said to Sounaka et al Narada was very fortunate.
Aswathama's Rage
TopSoon after Narada left, Vyasa wrote Bhagavata in Samyaprasa ashram situated on the banks of river Saraswati. He then bequeathed Bhagavata to his son Suka.
The war between Kauravas and Pandavas in Kurukshetra ended. Bheema destroyed Dhuryodhana by hitting on his thighs. To please his master Duryodhana, Aswathama decapitated Droupadi's children. He thought his master would be pleased. To the contrary, Duryodhana condemned Aswathama's murders. Everyone blamed Aswathama.
Droupadi was crying at the decapitated bodies of her sons. Arjuna consoled her.
Arjuna said "O auspicious one, please don't cry. The dead ones can't be seen again. By crying you can't make them alive. The low life who killed your sons will be meted with the same fate. I will bring his decapitated head as a gift to you". He then went after Aswathama in his chariot.
In a state of delirium one commits sin. The sin won't end soon after the act. The sin constantly chases the person. Some people garner wealth by cheating others. But they can't sleep in peace.
Aswathama saw Arjuna's chariot and started running. Seeing Arjuna was gaining on him, he fired Brahma Astra even though he didn't know how to recall it. The Brahma Astra released great fire and started devouring the world. Arjuna didn't know what to do. He prayed for Lord Krishna's help.
Situations will not be in our control all the time. At any time events can go topsy turvy. There is no need to fear during such times, if one prays to the Lord. It is essential to chant the names of the Lord who will grant us the strength to face tough situations. Lord Krishna's devotee, Arjuna seeing the calamity created by the Brahma Astra feared his death and prayed to the Lord.
"O Lord Krishna, the one with strong arms, this wild fire is spreading all over. Its origin is unknown. No one but you can protect us" prayed Arjuna.
Lord Krishna said "Arjuna, Aswathama fired Brahma Astra. He knows how to fire it but not recall it. You know how to recall it. So you be on that task".
Arjuna obeyed Sri Krishna's command. He decided to fire his Brahma Astra and took Lord's blessing.
Arjuna can easily destroy Aswathama's Brahma Astra. But he sought Lord Krishna's blessing. This kind of humility made him great. So we have to pray to the Lord before carrying out actions, even though we are very strong. We should not forget that it is the Lord's blessing that makes us successful.
With Lord's help, Arjuna recalled Brahma Astra. He then captured Aswatham.
The enraged Lord Krishna said "Arjuna, this Aswatham committed grave sin. He killed innocent children in the darkness of the night. He is a wicked person without remorse. This low life needs to be killed. He is not eligible for your pardon."
Lord Krishna said "This low life cannot be in the company of those seeking pardon. It is better to kill him. I heard you say to Droupadi that you will bring his decapitated head with you. Even Duryodhana did not approve of this wicked man's action. It is not correct to let him go. He is eligible for capital punishment".
Arjuna listened to Sri Krishna. But he did not want to kill Aswathama who was the son of his guru Drona. Killing a brahmin, that to guru's son, could land him in even more trouble. One has to assess if an act will cause more harm than good. An act causing more harm has to be abandoned. When a devotee hesitates to commit an act because of the sin it is a positive sign. This reflects the character of the devotee.
Arjuna tied up Aswathama and brought him to Droupadi. Aswathama bent his head in shame. He was repentant for the sin he committed by killing innocent children. One should not commit acts that make him hang his head in shame. Sin takes away the vital force of a person. A much revered person who is condemned for a sinful act prefers death over the shame.
Droupadi couldn't face Aswathama tied up like an animal. She said "My husband, free him. Think it over. Your guru Drona taught you all that you know in warfare and now he is in the form of Aswathama. Killing him is akin to killing your guru. He may have committed a sin. Will you commit another sin by killing him?"
"Arjuna think again. I am crying for the demise of my children. If Aswathama is killed by you his mother will cry like me", said Droupadi.
Here Droupadi is teaching a valuable lesson. Even to the enemy she was showing sympathy. Any one can be enraged with anger. But the noble ones are those who can control their anger.
When we suffer, we should hope that others don't suffer for the same reason. One should refrain from committing sin no matter how dire the situation is.
Droupadi said "I don't have children but have husbands. Aswathama's mother Krupi lost her husband. All her hopes are now on her son. It is not moral to let her suffer even more by killing her son." Everyone agreed with Droupadi.
Droupadi turning to Aswathama said "Does this act behoove you? My husbands, Pandavas, learnt all the skills of warfare from your father. Your dead father is living with you. Disciples are like children. Their children are your grandchildren. How could you kill my innocent children?"
"O son of guru. My children aren't strong. They were not carrying weapons. They didn't face you in the battle. They were only sleeping. What harm did they cause you? You killed my sons like you decapitate your enemy in the battlefield. How could your conscience permit it? How could your arms do the dirty deed?"
"O brahmin, when your mother comes to know that Arjuna captured you, she will cry. I am thinking about her agony. Didn't you have the foresight that if you kill innocent children, their mother will cry?" said Droupadi.
Everyone but Bheema agreed with Droupadi.
"We should not set this wicked one free. Droupadi is talking rubbish. Is this killer a brahmin anymore? This murderer needs to be killed. Droupadi doesn't make sense. Anyone of you could kill him. Otherwise, I will break his head into a thousand pieces with my bare hands" said Bheema.
Lord Krishna pacified Bheema. He said "O Arjuna, this Aswathama who killed your innocent sons is up for capital punishment. But as Droupadi said, the life of the son of a guru needs to be spared. So don't kill him. Yet don't set him free without punishment."
Arjuna understood the message from Lord Krishna. He took his sword and cut the hair on Aswathama's head. He then took away the jewel that was shining on his forehead. This made Aswathama lose the vital force.
Everyone agreed that Aswathama was meted with proper punishment. Aswathama felt death was preferable over the shame he was meted with.
Kunti Devi's Praise To The Lord
TopPandavas performed rituals for the departed souls. Dharma Raja, Pandavas, Gandhari, Dhrutarashtra, Kunti, Droupadi were seated near river Ganga. Everyone was feeling sad for the destruction of near and dear ones in the Kurukshetra war. Sri Krishna and the ascetics there consoled them. The Lord said no one could overcome the wheel of time.
Time will not show any remorse. Everyone will have to wither away with the passage of time. Knowing this one has to act in haste. Time will not stop for us. We have to make the best use of time to progress in the spiritual discipline.
The kingdom Sri Krishna received from Duryodhana was handed over to Dharma Raja. The Lord helped Dharma Raja perform three horse sacrifices. Dharma Raja's fame was spreading all over the world.
Sri Krishna decided to go to Dwaraka. He was about to leave with Satyaki and Uddhava. Abhimanyu's wife Uttara came running in fear. She asked for Lord's protection.
"O Lord of Lords, great Yogi, please protect me. In this world it seems everyone is out to kill everyone else. There is no one but you who can protect me" said Uttara.
"An arrow spitting fire is coming towards me. It seems to be targeting my womb. Please protect me from this arrow" said Uttara.
Sri Krishna realized that the embarrassed Aswathama decided to kill the last Pandava to be born by firing Brahma Astra. Meanwhile, five arrows targeting the Pandavas were arriving. The Lord destroyed them all with his Sudharsana chakra.
Uttara was worried about the Brahma Astra. Yet she did not seek help from her relatives. She prayed to the Lord for help. She knew that only the Lord could save her.
The Lord entered the womb of Uttara with his maya and saved the growing fetus.
The Lord without birth or death entered Uttara's womb. Devaki and Vasudeva thought they gave birth to Lord Krishna. In reality Lord Krishna never entered Devaki's womb nor was he born like mortals. How can the omnipresent be embodied? After entering Uttara's womb, the Lord protected the Pareekshit in fetus form.
Not only Pareekshit, the Lord is protecting every fetus in the womb. He also protects after delivering the fetus. As the child grows to adult and the adult turns old, and ultimately dies, the Lord is taking care. He protects us while living and after death.
Sri Krishna was finally ready to go to Dwaraka. Kunti Devi accompanied by her children approached the Lord
She did namaskara to Sri Krishna. Every day it was Sri Krishna that did the namaskara to Kunti Devi. Sri Krishna said "I am younger than you. I have to do namaskara to you. Not you".
Kunti said "Until now I thought you are a younger relation. In fact you are the paramatma and worthy of worship. You transcend senses and are everlasting"
"Namaskara to the one who has lotus in the navel. Namaskara to the one wearing a garland of lotuses around his neck. Namaskara to the one whose eyes are like lotuses. Namaskara to the one whose feet are like lotuses" said Kunti.
Kunti said "Lord, your parents were tortured by Kamsa for a long time. You have given them salvation. Because of your grace, I am living with my children"
The Lord does good things to his devotees. But ordinary people don't show their gratitude. We have to be ardent devotees of the Lord for having been given everything we have by him. Situations may change, but devotion should be unwavering.
Arjuna was inconsolable in Kurukshetra. He surrendered to the Lord. At the moment, Kunti didn't have any difficulties. Her son Dharma Raja was the king. Even then she was praying to Lord Krishna. Bhishma prayed to the Lord with a thousand names as he was resting on a bed of arrows. These examples prove the point that in difficulties, in happy moments or in the throes of death the Lord should be prayed.
Kunti Devi was inviting obstacles. Because, when living comfortably we forget to meditate on the Lord. Whereas, the Lord is remembered during difficult periods in life.
Kunti said "Krishna, I visited gokula when you were a child. I saw a strange thing. Yasoda tried to tie you up as you broke a pot containing butter. You started crying. The tears ran down your beautiful cheeks. You bowed your head down in fear"
Those who reminisce about the Lord's escapades and meditate over the names of the Lord, are in a state of bliss. Like Kunti, ardent devotees should brood over the divine acts and their transcendental meaning. In between acts, when there is an idle moment, we should think about the Lord. From name, we should progress to form and from there sublime into the formless vital force.
"Krishna, those who listen to your history, praise you, talk about you, meditate about you, experience infinite happiness, break free from the bonds, and reach your abode," said Kunti.
"Krishna, you are our savior. You are our destination. We are living with your support. Now you are leaving us behind. Pandavas will be lifeless. This kingdom is made auspicious with your footsteps. If you leave it will lose its lustre. Lord, dissipate my love for Pandavas. Like the river that flows into the vast ocean, my mind, free from desires, is racing towards you and resting in you" said Kunti.
With the pleasantries Kunti Devi praised the Lord. She reminisced over his escapades. Sri Krishna with a smile endeared her. Kunti offered namaskara to Sri Krishna.
Dharma Raja requested Sri Krishna to stay for some more time.
Dharma Raja was in melancholy. He was crying over the dead relatives. Vyasa and other rishis tried to console him. But it didn't help mitigate his sadness. He was experiencing deep depression.
"I am such a fool and selfish person. Ignorance has spread all over my heart. This body will wither away after I die. For its sake I killed thousands of soldiers, brahmins, friends, cousins and gurus. There is no way to atone for these sins. No matter how many millions of times I will be reborn these sins can't be washed away" said Dharma Raj.
"Even though the scripture says in a war enemies can be killed, my mind is still not at peace. I don't think performing yagnas will take away the sin of separating the warriors from their wives", said Dharma Raj.
"We can't wash our body with unclean water. We can't clean a pot used to store toddy with toddy. Similarly the sin of killing a person cannot be atoned by performing yagna" said Dharma Raj.
While Dharma Raja was asking "Why did I kill?" after the war, Arjuna with foresight had asked "Why should I kill?" before the war. A forethought will make a person perfect. Moping over the past won't help anyone.
After hearing about the sadness felt by Dharma Raj, Sri Krishna returned to Hastinapura.
"Heeding to my prayers, Sri Krishna returned to Hastina" thought Kunti and felt elated.
"Krishna listened to my pleadings and returned to Hastina" thought Dharma Raja.
"Krishna is my friend. It is not easy to part with friends. I am very fortunate" thought Arjuna.
"Krishna is my brother. My love for him has drawn him back" thought Subhadra. Droupadi thought "He likes my devotion to him."
Why Sri Krishna returned was unknown except to him. Everyone thought he returned for their sake. How many know that he returned to offer salvation to Bhishma who was resting on the bed of arrows?
Bhishma's Passing Away
TopThe outcome of the war stirred Yudhishtara. Bhishma was lying on the bed of arrows. Sri Krishna felt learning the intricacies of Dharma from Bhishma would uplift Dharma Raja's mood.
Dharma Raja approached Bhishma. Pandavas, Vyasa, Dhoumya, Sri Krishna went along with him. To see Bhishma, several rishis including Narada assembled near him.
The birth of great people looks ordinary. But their death is celebratory. As the river flows, it widens. In life a great person gains wisdom.
Bhishma offered namaskara to all the visitors. On seeing the all pervading Sri Krishna, he raised his hands in namaskara.
With happy tears Bhishma saw the Pandavas. The son of Ganga felt the tug of bonds by the obedient and loving Pandavas.
"Pandavas, you lived with Dharma. You followed brahmins and the Lord. Even then obstacles to your happiness came. This is a strange thing." said Bhishma.
"Pandavas, your father Pandu died when you were very young. To raise you my daughter-in-law Kunti persevered. She experienced great difficulties" said Bhishma.
"Dear ones, just as clouds move along with the wind, this world is controlled by time. The difficulties created by time have to be experienced. The escapades of the Lord are unimaginable to common people. At what point in time, what turn the life takes is unknown. People watching his maya have been blinded by it" said Bhishma.
"Pandavas, since this is divine ordained there is no reason to feel sad. Dharma Raja you are very fortunate. The omniscient Lord stood behind you. The Lord's kindness can't be expressed in words. To bless this poor soul he came to see me on the throes of death. He came to make my death a memorable experience" said Bhishma.
The noble Bhishma saw the Lord at the death's door. His death was made auspicious by the grace of the Lord. Bhishma decided to let go of his prana in the presence of the Lord.
When life is free from travail, even death will be auspicious. Those who pray to paramatma all their lives will meet him at the time of death. We should pray "O Lord, stay in my eyes when I die".
"Let the Lord stay near me until my body withers away" thought Bhishma.
Soota said "Sounaka and rishis, at that time Dharma Raja asked Bhishma several questions about Dharma. He learnt various intricacies of Dharma from him. He learnt the duties of householders and kings. Dharma Raja asked what is the most important Dharma. Bhishma said reciting the thousand names of Lord Vishnu is the most important dharma. With the recital of the thousand names of Lord Vishnu one's obstacles will be removed resulting in all round happiness.
Just as the interaction between Sri Krishna and Arjuna gave us Bhagavad Gita, the discussion between Dharma Raja and Bhishma gave us Vishnu Sahasra Nama. Both Arjuna and Dharma Raja are qualified to receive the wisdom from Sri Krishna and Bhishma. A life led with Dharma, patience and perseverance is the necessity.
As the solstice approached Bhishm decided to let his prana go. He turned his senses inward, freed his mind from external distractions and focused mind on Lord Krishna. He praised Sri Krishna.
"The creator of various worlds, the most exalted Yadava, the most handsome in all the world, one with dark blue skin, one who wears silk robes, one who is the friend of Arjuna, one who is covered with the dust raised by the running horses in the battle field, one whose sweat flowed down his beautiful curls, one who is struck by my arrows, let him stay in my mind forever" said Bhishma.
Sri Krishna vowed not to use any weapons during the Maha Bharata war. Arjuna was worried about Bhishma's arrows. Once he fell unconscious. Sri Krishna jumped to the ground from the chariot. He held the chariot wheel and lunged toward Bhishma like a lion that attacks an elephant. Bhishma was impressed by the sight. He felt his life's purpose had been served. The Lord didn't hesitate to take back his vow to protect his ardent devotee Arjuna. Even if he faces defeat, his devotees should always win was his motto. Watching this love of the Lord, Bhishma was elated.
"By whose words, laughter, footsteps the Gopikas attained salvation by breaking the earthly bonds, such Sri Krishna should remain in my heart forever" thought Bhishma.
Bhishma focused his mind on Sri Krishna, stopped his breath and let his prana go. He merged with paramatma who is disembodied. All those gathered to watch the spectacle, remained silent. Devas rained down flowers in celebration.
Dharma Raja performed the last rites to Bhishma. He started crying like a child. Along with Sri Krishna he returned to Hastina. He consoled Gandhari and Dhrutarashtra who felt sad at the demise of Bhishma. With the acceptance of Dhrutarashtra and blessing of Sri Krishna, Dharma Raja became the king of Hastina.
Bhishma is a great devotee of the Lord. His story is forever green. His life is worthy of emulation. It is full of inspiration.
The following conversation between Bhishma and Sri Krishna was not to be found in the scripture.
As Bhishma lay on the bed of arrows, Sri Krishna asked, "Bhishma, you follow dharma. Why did you fight alongside kauravas who left dharma?"
Bhishma replied, "Lord, even though I was fighting alongside Kauravas, my mind was with Pandavas. You are the charioteer for Arjuna. Unless I stand with Kauravas, how can I see you face to face? Such good fortune is not possible if I fought with Pandavas."
Sri Krishna's Entry In Dwaraka
TopDharma Raja became the king. He was still repenting his actions that led to the deaths of relations and friends. As a result, he had no interest in the luxuries. Dharma was upheld in his rule.
"Rains came on time. Cows gave plentiful milk. Agriculture was abundant. Trees bore juicy fruit. Sri Krishna after consoling Pandavas was headed to Dwaraka. All the citizens of Hastinapura wailed at the departure of Sri Krishna. It is not possible to leave the company of those devotees who worship the Lord. Is it possible to leave the Lord himself by his coevals?" said Soota.
Pandavas didn't want to cry as it was inauspicious to do so at the time of Sri Krishna's departure. The drums and musical instruments were employed. Ladies showered flowers on the Lord from their palace perches. Arjuna brought an umbrella studded with diamonds and held it above Lord's head. On the chariot, Satyaki and Udhava held fans. All along the way citizens showered the Lord with flowers. Pandavas followed Sri Krishna's chariot for some distance and then returned to Hastinapura.
By evening the Lord reached Dwaraka. The sun was about to set. Lord went to a lake and offered Surya Namaskara. Is it necessary for a Lord who offers fruits of everyone's karma to do Surya Namaskara? He was doing it as a role model for others to emulate.
Lord said in the Karma Yoga chapter of Gita "The noble person is emulated by other people. The standards of noble people are adopted by others".
Sri Krishna entered Dwaraka and blew his shell Pancha Janya. Hearing it, the Dwaraka's citizens came running to welcome the Lord.
The recital of Lord's names brings us closer to him. The sound of Pancha Janya brought the Dwaraka citizens to the feet of the Lord.
It was said in Vaisampayana Samhita that "Even a wretched one who doesn't follow dharma, a wicked one who commits innumerable sins can attain salvation by praising the Lord."
By blowing Pancha Janya the Lord is indicating that the sound emanating from reciting his names will break the earthly bonds and help us attain salvation.
Soota said "The sound of Pancha Janya drowned the fears of the Dwaraka citizens who were stuck with worldly bonds"
The citizens of Dwaraka gathered around Sri Krishna. They offered salutations and enquired about his well being. Like children conversing with parents, they were rejoicing.
"Sri Krishna, the most auspicious! You are our father, mother, relation, master, guru and god. By following your footsteps our lives are enriched. Your handsome face is not to be found even in heaven. You stayed in Hastinapura for the sake of your relations. Without you we felt darkness in day."
Pareekshit's Birth
TopSounaka et al in the Naimisa forest asked Soota "Mahatma! Please tell us the history of the wise Pareekshit. Also about the wisdom he gained from Suka."
Soota told Sounaka and others "Dharma Raja ruled his kingdom where the subjects were treated like his own children. Because of Sri Krishna's nurture he didn't show any interest in luxuries. When one is hungry one desires food but not luxuries. He didn't evince interest in anything but Lord's vision"
"The Brahma Astra released by Aswathama entered Uttara's womb where Pareekshit was in fetus form. The Lord protected Pareekshit with his Sudarshana chakra. Pareekshit saw the resplendant form of the Lord. He saw a divine person fighting the Brahma Astra with a mace. Pareekshit is fortunate for seeing the Lord even before he was born" said Soota.
"Pareekshit was finally delivered. The astrologists reckoned he was born at an auspicious time" said Soota.
"Dharma Raja gave alms to people to celebrate the birth of Pareekshit. We should accept anything in life as a gift from the Lord. One should not enjoy the gift alone. It should be shared with all deserving people. Dharma Raja asked the astrologers to predict Pareekshit's future", said Soota.
"Brahmins said the child's future will be amazing and unparalleled".
"Pareekshit will protect his subjects like Ikshvakas. Like Lord Rama he will be truthful. Like Sibi he will give alms to people. He will be as ferocious as fire. And as stable as an ocean. His valor will be that of a lion. He will be patient like the earth. Like Lord Siva he will be favorable to all. Like Lord Sri Hari he will be revered. He will be courageous like Bali. His devotion to the Lord will be like that of Prahlada. He will perform yagnas. He will respect elders" said the astrologers.
"Why was he named Pareekshit? As he lay in his mother's womb, he was meditating over the Lord who appeared to him. After leaving the womb he was in search of the Lord"
"The world has names and forms. Paramatma is sat-chit-ananda. The one who is in search of the Lord in the names and forms is called Pareekshit. Everyone should seek Paramatma in this world"
"Pareekshit grew into a child. Even then he followed dharma. He was a Krishna devotee. He respected all life. His character was flawless"
Vidura's Arrival - Dhrutarashtra and Gandhari's Passing Away
Top"Vidura completed his pilgrimage and arrived at Hastinapura. He learnt about the demise of Kauravas from Udhava when they met at Prabhasa Kshetra. Later he gained wisdom from Maitreya"
"Vidura didn't come to see relations but break their bonds. He didn't expect lavish food parties, but wanted to enlighten Dhrutarashtra."
Dharma Raja and Pandavas welcomed Vidura. They cried about not seeing him in a long while.
After supper Dharma Raja approached Vidura and said "O great one, in the past we faced several obstacles. Kauravas tried to kill us by poisoning our food and burning down our abode made of lac. We were saved because of you. Like the birdlings that live without their parents we were raised by your patronage"
"Please tell us about your experiences during pilgrimage" said Dharma Raja.
Pilgrimage is a sacred act. Pilgrimage should not be about sight seeing and novelty. It should be done to lead a noble life. Householders cannot perform all rituals at home. They have to go on pilgrimage and perform the rituals at holy sites. Without that there is no use to pilgrimage.
Vidura was on pilgrimage for several years. In spite of that he was humble. He didn't like self-praise.
We should hide our good deeds and talk about bad deeds. We should remember our sinful acts. And forget noble acts.
Some days passed. One night Vidura approached Dhrutarashtra. He told him about time and the birth-death cycle of life. "O king, your brothers, children and relations are dead. Even your body has withered. Your death is fast approaching. Still you are hiding your head in Pandava kingdom"
"O brother, under your watch Pandavas' house was set on fire; poisonous food was served to Pandavas; their wife Droupadi was insulted. You stole their wealth and kingdom. Now you are living under their mercy. Does it look fine with you?" said Vidura.
"On one hand you are miserable and on the other you think yourself to be very lucky. Your body has withered."
"The desire to live is so pernicious. Living under the mercy of Pandavas you get a few morsels of food like a dog"
Dhrutarashtra said "Vidura, what do you want me to do as it is already night?"
"O king, night and day are for the one who can see but not you. In daylight Dharma Raja won't let you leave Hastina. So start now and go northward"
Dhrutarashtra agreed with Vidura. He along with his wife Gandhari and Vidura went towards Himalayas and arrived at Sapta Srota.
At Sapta Srota the river Ganga split several ways to please celestial seven rishis. Dhrutarashtra performed ablutions thrice a day and only consumed water.
Next day Dharma Raja came to offer his namaskara to Dhrutarashtra and Gandhari. But he could not find them, including Vidura. He accosted Sanjaya.
He asked "Sanjaya, where is my old and blind father? Where is my mother Gandhari? Where is my uncle Vidura? Did they end their lives by drowning in river Ganga fearing me who killed all their relations?"
"Sanjaya! my mind is in turmoil. My father died when I was young. Dhrutarashtra and Gandhari raised me" said the grieving Dharma Raja.
Sanjaya felt sad and said "Dharma Raja, Dhrutarashtra usually seeks my counsel on everything. But not this time"
Sage Narada arrived at that juncture.
"O Deva, great Sage, you are like the navigator for those drowning with wordly bonds. My parents have left without telling me. I don't know where they are now. I weep for Gandhari who lost all of her sons" said Dharma Raja.
Narada said "O Pandava, this world is subservient to Eswara. He is the one who unites and separates people".
"People play with dice. Sometimes dice meet and at other times they separate. This is not in the control of the players. Attachment is the root for all sadness. You are crying about your parents. Is your body permanent?"
"The naked animals are being eaten by clothed men. The grass without feet is being eaten by quadrupeds. Small fish are being eaten by big fish. One specie is the food for another"
"O king, your parents and Vidura are living in Sapta Srota. They are in meditation. Please don't interrupt their penance. Five days from today Dhrutarashtra will die. Along with him Gandhari will die on his pyre. Vidura will once again go on pilgrimage" said Narada. Dharma Raja recovered from his sadness.
No one will live for ever. Instead of thinking about the dead, it is better to think about who will die next. We can't die together because we were not born together. Everyone is alone when it comes to death.
Relations and friends come upto the cemetary in a funeral procession. The symbolic meaning is we will be the next ones to go to the cemetery for cremation.
Until death a person will be planning about his children's employment, daughters' marriages, helping relations, amassing wealth and fame. They will all be put to rest when death strikes.
Narada said in six months the Kali yuga would begin. People would indulge in bad acts and pollute the land. It was also spelling doom for Pandavas.
Bad Omens
TopArjuna went to Dwaraka. Some months passed. Dharma Raja was seeing bad omens. He saw squalor. Time didn't seem normal. He was troubled by the events in his Kingdom.
Dharma Raja said "Bheema, it is seven months since Arjuna went to Dwaraka. He hasn't returned till now. Narada told me that Sri Krishna is going to end his avatar. My mind is disturbed. Because of the Lord, we are able to lead a royal life. Of late I am seeing many bad omens"
"I saw a fox wailing in front of the rising sun. One dog cried on seeing me. Horses were crying. Owls and crows were crying out loudly. The sun is less radiant. Calves are not drinking milk from udders. Cows are not giving milk. Cows are sad. The deities in the temples are less radiant" said Dharma Raja.
"Bheema, I went for a walk yesterday. I saw a smith holding a strange object in his hand. I asked him about it. He said it is a key. Do you see people are now afraid of thieves and locking up their homes?" said Dharma Raja.
"People are lying and easy to anger. Covetousness increased. Friends are cheating one another. Forests are not as green as before. Villages lost their lustre" said Dharma Raja.
"Six months ago a trader sold his house to a brahmin. After some time as the brahmin was repairing his house he found gold. He took the gold to the trader and wanted to return it to him because he bought only the house but not gold from him. But the trader refused to take the gold and asked the brahmin to keep it forever. My kingdom was replete with such people in the past" said Dharma Raj.
"So much change took place in just six months.Yesterday the trader and the brahmin came to me claiming the gold as their own. The minds of the people have changed in a short time" said Dharma Raja.
Arjuna returned from Dwaraka. He looked forlorn and bereft of aura. On seeing him Dharma Raja was troubled.
"Arjuna, are our relations safe in Dwaraka? Are you keeping good health? You look less radiant. You spent an excess amount of time with relations. Did they insult you? Did you not protect those who sought your protection? Did you eat food without feeding the guests? Did you perform actions violating dharma? Is Lord Krishna safe?" enquired Dharma Raja.
Arjuna cried out loud and fell on the feet of his brother.
"Brother, Sri Krishna left. My aura diminished because of his departure. This world is looking to me like a corpse. My strength and valor are vaning without Sri Krishna. All the things I have accomplished so far are because of Lord Krishna. I have run out of will. Even Gopas defeated me as I stood in protection of the ladies" said Arjuna.
"O king, because of the curse of a sage, all our relations perished. Only a handful of them remained" said Arjuna.
Sri Krishna's encouraging words were reverberating in Arjuna's mind. All of his sins were washed away by the servitude to the Lord. The Gita Lord told him, came to memory. By focusing his mind on the Lord, he gave up desire and sadness.
Kunti Devi on hearing about the demise of the Lord perished. Dharma Raja felt without Sri Krishna it was too hard to live.
On the day Sri Krishna left, Kali entered. Kali means disagreement. Where the Lord dwells there would be no Kali. Those reciting the Lord's name won't experience Kali.
Dharma Raja abdicated his throne to Pareekshit, the son of Uttara. He donned torn clothes, with his hair unkempt he wandered like a mad man in northerly direction. All of his brothers followed him meditating on Lord Krishna.
Vidura focused his mind on Sri Krishna and died in Prabhasa. Droupadi after hearing about her husbands' plight attained salvation.
Pandavas eventually attained salvation. Pareekshit was ruling the world following the advice of wise people. Dharma was standing on its four legs.
Pareekshit's Rule
TopPareekshit married Niravati. He had four sons. With his Guru Krupacharya's help, he performed three Aswamedhas.
Aswa means a horse. The yagna performed with the sacrifice of a horse is called Aswamedha. Horse is a finicky animal. That's why the riders cover its eyes with blind folds. Such finickiness is found in our senses. One who restricts the flight of senses and mind can attain steadfastness. So for self realization senses, mind and heart have to be controlled. Pareekshit by performing three Aswamedha yagnas attained self-realization.
Pareekshit went on a victory tour. He saw Kali at one place kicking a calf with his leg. Kali was thinking if Pareekshit performed a sinful act, he could enter him. He thought if the king could be conquered, then it would be easy to conquer the kingdom. But Pareekshit was free from sin.
In his victory tour, Pareekshit saw a cow and an ox. The ox was standing on one leg and the cow without calves was crying. The ox was dharma and the cow was earth.
Dharma is essential for the balance in the world. In Kali the dharma is standing only on one of the four legs.
The ox said to the cow "Are you healthy? I am worried about your decrepit status. Something is bothering you. Are you sad that I am standing on one leg? Or is the king's bad rule bothering you? Or you are sad about the people caught in the famine?"
"O earth, there is a change in time. Husbands are not protecting their wives. Parents are not taking care of their offspring. They are acting like demons. Knowledge is coveted by unworthy people. Incompetent people are being served by knowledgeable people. Are you sad because of all these?" said the ox.
The earth in the form of a cow said "O Dharma, you know the reason for my sadness. In the past you used to stand on all four legs. Now you only use one leg. The Lord Sri Krishna, the epitome of dharma, has ended his avatar. The sinful Kali is pestering the people. I am crying for them."
Kali Restrained
TopPareekshit saw a man wearing royal insignia hitting an ox with a stick. He also saw a cow beaten by him.
Pareekshit said "Who are you? Why are you pretending to be a king? You look like a low life. Why are you hitting the voiceless cattle?"
Pareekshit said to the ox "Who are you standing on one leg? I am feeling sympathetic towards you. I don't see anyone crying in my kingdom but you. Don't cry. I can reform the cruel man."
When subjects are being tortured by wicked people, the ruler's longevity, wealth and salvation will be destroyed.
The Dharma in ox form said "O king, you are the most exalted in the Pandava dynasty protected by Lord Krishna. You are capable of protecting me. I don't know who disabled my three legs. Some say it is the time, karma or behavior. Please let me know the reason for my sadness."
Pareekshit said to the ox "You are not revealing the name of your torturer. I think you are the dharma Devata. It is apparent to me that Kali is torturing you."
"In Krita yuga you stood on four legs. Penance, Kindness, Purity and Truth are these legs. Because of ego, penance was destroyed. With bad company, purity was gone. Because of alcohol, kindness was destroyed. The only remaining leg is that of truth. You are living with the strength of truth. Kali is trying to disable even this last leg you are standing on. Please don't feel sad. I will protect you" said Pareekshit. He immediately drew his sword and attacked the man wearing royal insignia. Kali was frightened and dropped his insignia. He fell on the feet of Pareekshit seeking mercy.
Pareekshit said, "In Arjuna's dynasty refugees need not fear. But you are performing wicked acts. So you don't have a place in my kingdom".
"O king, I will obey your order. But wherever I go I fear your arrow. Please tell me where I can stay".
Pareekshit said, "You can stay in gambling, alcohol, prostitution and torture."
When Kali begged for another place he gave gold as the fifth place.
Thus Pareekshit restored Penance, Kindness, Purity in Dharma.
Pareekshit's Trying Time
TopKali thought the king gave five places to stay and he could enter the king through one of them.
One day Pareekshit had a strange thought. He wanted to know what his grandfather Arjuna left for him. As he searched, he found a golden crown. Pareekshit wore it on his head. That crown belongs to Jarasandha. Bheema stole it from Jarasandha who wanted to bequeath it to his son. Thus it was associated with immorality. That's why even Pandavas were not wearing it. Pareekshit unbeknowst of its history wore it on his head. Kali, seeing the opportunity, immediately got inside Pareekshit. Pareekshit went for a hunt wearing the crown.
Soota said to Sounaka et al "Pareekshit is a noble man. He was on the receiving end of the Brahma Astra fired by Aswathama but did not die due to the grace of Lord Krishna. Even though he was cursed by Srungi, he did not fear death. He received Bhagavata knowledge from Suka and transcended death."
Sounaka and other rishes said "O great one, let all auspiciousness come to you. You are telling us the everlasting story about Sri Krishna's life. The company of devotees is always preferable. It is more superior than heaven and salvation. Please tell us more about Bhagavata."
Soota said "O rishis, you know vedas. You are the embodiment of knowledge. You are seeking knowledge about Sri Krishna. I will tell you as much as I can. Just as a bird flies as high as it can, I will follow my memory and mind".
One day Pareekshit went hunting in the forest. He was tired after the hunt. He was thirsty. Whereever he searched, there was no water to be found. As he was searching he entered an ashram. It is the ashram of rishi Sameeka. At that time, the rishi was in deep meditation. His mind was totally turned inward.
Pareekshit requested the rishi to give water to quench his thirst. The rishi was in samadhi and didn't hear anything Pareekshit said. Pareekshit was offended by the lack of response. He felt insulted by the rishi. His mind lost its cool due to thirst.
Pareekshit was enraged by the rishi. He found a dead serpent nearby. He immediately picked it up and placed it around Sameeka's neck.
Sameeka was not aware that there was a dead serpent around his neck. He did not react as he was in deep meditation. This amazed the king. He thought he could awaken the rishi by his act, instead he found out that the rishi was really in deep meditation. This saddened him. Feeling repentance he left the ashram.
Some bachelors in the ashram saw the incident and ran to tell Srungi, the son of Sameeka, who was at the banks of a river.
Srungi was very disturbed. He was enraged by the unjust act on his father who was a hermit and deeply spiritual. He felt the king violated the dharma. He considered it as an unforgivable transgression.
"My father is a divine person. He will never hurt anyone. He is not pompous. He wears the names of the Lord and never takes offence. He crossed all mortal planes and is always in Lord Vishnu's prayer. He never expects alms and doesn't covet wealth. How can anyone insult him by placing a dead serpent in the middle of a forest? This is unpardonable" said Srungi while preparing to curse Pareekshit.
"Nowadays kings are getting as fat as crows feeding on leftovers and committing grave sins. Even though they are our servants, they are rejecting their masters. They are not fit for pardon. Takshaka will bite seven days from today the king Pareekshit who committed a grave sin on my father" said Srungi.
Thus the curse was placed on the king. A momentary transgression ended the life of an otherwise promising king.
Srungi returned to the ashram from the river still seething with anger.
When Sameeka came out of samadhi he saw his son in rage and a dead serpent nearby. He realized what had happened. He felt very sad for the curse his son placed on the king.
Sameeka said "Son, what a grave mistake you have committed. After Sri Krishna's exit, like thieves stealing sheep, dharma started waning on the earth. Pareekshit is our only hope to make the dharma stand on its four legs. You put a grave curse upon him for a minor offence. He is a follower of dharma. The ones violating dharma are used to wicked acts. A follower of dharma occasionally loses the rectitude. Later on they repent and feel sad. You ignored the thousand morally upright acts the king carries out and focused on one minor offence to curse him. Will a morally upright king replace Pareekshit? Instead of welcoming him as a guest you cursed. Is it fair?"
Sameeka said "Son, without Pareekshit to rule us, thieves will multiply manifold. Violence will raise its ugly head. Cattle, women and the wealth will be usurped. Then dharma will wither away. Without dharma men will behave like simians and canines following their gut instincts. Do you see the malevolent consequences of your curse?" He prayed to Sri Krishna to forgive his son.
Sameeka asked the bachelors in the ashram to inform Pareekshit about Srungi's curse. The repentant king upon hearing about the curse felt relieved because in seven days he would be released from his sin.
Pareekshit is like a wanderer seeking peace on earth. For many, quenching their desires is impossible. There is no end to the desires. They are never satisfied.
In search of peace Pareekshit found Sameeka's ashram. Sama means control of mind. One who controlled his mind is Sameeka. He is the ideal guru. An ideal guru has his senses turned inward. A disciple cannot enter the innards of a guru. That's the reason Pareekshit's words didn't enter Sameeka's inner world.
A disciple at the beginning of tutelage under a guru is subject to nervousness. He can't understand the inner world of the guru. Moreover he may misunderstand guru's way of life. It is not a surprise if the nervousness causes him to disrespect the guru.
A guru may not be offended by a disciple's actions and words. But an immoral life will be embarrassing. For every karma there is fruit. Upon coming to know of Pareekshit's shameful act, Srungi was shaken. Srunga means horn. A horn grows out of the body. Even though karma may end, the fruit will be still forming and make one experience it. In other words, Srungi is the fruit of karma. There is no escape from experiencing the fruit of karma.
The fruit of karma is decided by the Lord. No one can escape it. There is no way to retract an arrow shot from a bow. Once karma is done, its fruit is unavoidable. Such is the curse of Srungi.
To err is human. If one repents and vows to not repeat the error, he will become noble. Then he seeks the company of the wise. Eventually he becomes a rishi.
A guru is kind, loving and always nurturing his disciples.
A guru forgives even the most vile disciple. That's why Sameeka sent the message to Pareekshit about his son's curse.
A guru will not abandon a disciple who has gone crooked. He will continue to shape his character.
Pareekshit after coming to know about the curse decided to renounce all physical comforts. He focused his mind on the Lord Sri Krishna. He went to the banks of river Ganga to cleanse his sins.
Word spread that King Pareekshit was ending his life in the river Ganga. Great sages and rishis came from all over the land and gathered near Pareekshit.
Pareekshit was disinterested in the mortal plane. He was in search of self realization.
Pareekshit saluted the sages and washed their feet. He said with folded hands "O great ones, by placing a dead serpent around the rishi's neck I invited the inauspiciousness. Please give me advice on how to overcome that sin. Who can question Eswara's will? Who can fight against Paramatma's decisions? I am ready to offer my body to Takshaka. But how do I ensure that in the coming births I will remain a true devotee of Sri Hari?"
Pareekshit bequeathed his throne to his son Janamejaya. As sages were discussing amongst them on how to reply to Pareekshit, at that juncture, the rishi Suka arrived at the gathering.
Upon the arrival of Suka everyone was relieved. Like sun's rays that make lotuses bloom, the radiant Suka made the sages rejoice.
Pareekshit washed the feet of Suka and invited him. He realized that out of his sheer luck, Suka arrived. Devotion will never go to waste.
Pareekshit prayed to Suka and praised his qualities. He wanted to know from Suka what steps he could take as he was certain to die in seven days.
Saturday, April 6, 2024
Vidura Neeti Part 7
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వేదాలు పురుషుని ఆయుఃప్రమాణాన్ని నూరు సంవత్సరాలని నిర్ణయించాయి. అయినా మానవుడు అకాలంలో ఎందుకు మరణిస్తాడు- అన్నాడు ధృత రాష్ట్రుడు.
"Vedas say man lives to be hundred. But some die before. What is the reason" asked Dhrutarashtra.
ప్రభూ! మీకు మేలుకలుగుగాక ! అధికప్రసంగాలూ, క్రోధమూ, అపారమైన అభిమానమూ, త్యాగశూన్యత్వమూ, ఉదరపోషణచింతా, మిత్రద్రోహమూ, అనే ఆరుకరవాలాలు మానవుని ఆయుఃప్రమాణాన్ని తెగనరుకుతూంటాయి. ఇవే వానిని వధిస్తాయి. కావి మృత్యువుకాదు. తనను విశ్వసించినవాని
King, let auspiciousness come to you. Talkativeness, anger, egotism, unable to sacrifice, indulgence in food, betrayal of friends curtail longevity, not death itself.
పత్నితో సంగమించేవాడూ, గురుభార్యతో కామవ్యవహారం సాగించేవాడూ, విప్రుడై శూద్ర స్త్రీని పరిణయ మాడేవాడూ, సురాపానప్రమత్తుడూ, అన్యకులజుడై విప్రులను ఆదేశించేవాడూ, విప్రజీవికను నాశనం చేసేవాడూ, వారిని తన సేవలో నియోగి౦చుకొనే వాడూ, శరణాగతులను హింసించేవాడూ, వీరందరూ బ్రహ్మహత్యాపాతకులు. వీరి సాంగత్యం ప్రాయశ్చిత్తంతో కాని తీరదు. నీతివేత్త, దాత, యజ్ఞ శేషాన్నభోక్త, ఆహింసారతుడు, గురు వృద్ద జనాదేశ పరాయణుడు, అనర్థకార్యదూరుడు, సత్యవాది, కృతజ్ఞుడు, మృదుస్వభావుడు అయిన విద్వాంసుడు స్వర్గం చేరుతాడు.
One who romances with the wife of a friend or his guru; one who is a brahmin marrying a soodra, alcoholic, despite from a different varna commanding brahmins, destroying the lives of brahmins; using brahmins for servitude; torturing those seeking refuge become the sinners on par with the murderer of Brahma Deva. Their sin could not be atoned easily. A wise one, a donor; one who eats after everyone ate during yagna; one who respects guru, elders, subjects; one who doesn't perform meaningless karma; one who always speaks the truth; one who is grateful; one who is soft spoken will attain heaven.
మనకు ప్రియం చెప్పేవారు అనేకులు అయాచితంగా లభిస్తారు. కాని హితవు చెప్పే వక్త దొరకడు. ఆ వక్తకూ శ్రోతలు లభించరు. ధర్మాశయుడై స్వామికి ప్రియాప్రియాలు ఆలోచించి హితవు పలికేవాడు ప్రభు సేవకులలో ఉత్తముడు.
Everyone likes to praise. But few come forward to share wisdom. Such people don't get an audience. One following dharma, thinks of pros and cons while sharing his wisdom with the king, is the best among King's advisers.
కులరక్షణార్ధం వ్యక్తినీ, గ్రామరక్షణార్ధం కులాన్ని, దేశరక్షణకోసం గ్రామాన్నీ, ఆత్మసౌభాగ్యంకోసం పృధివినీ విడిచిపెట్టాలి. ఆపదలనుండి ధనాన్ని రక్షించుకోవాలి. ధనంతో స్త్రీనీ, స్త్రీ ధనాలతో ఆత్మనూ రక్షించుకోవాలి. ద్యూతం (జూదం) కలహహేతువని పూర్వమెందరో ఘోషించారు, కనక ధీమంతుడు కాలక్షేపానికి కూడా ద్యూతప్రసంగాన్ని రానివ్వకూడదు.
To protect varna one can be sacrificed. To protect a village varna may be renounced. To protect the country a village can be sacrificed. To enrich self, one has to renounce the earth. In dangerous times, wealth has to be protected. With wealth one has to protect women. With women and wealth, self has to be protected. It has been said from time immemorial that gambling leads to quarrels. Hence a virtuous one should not dwell on it.
ఈ విషయం ద్యూతారంభవేళ మీకు నేను చెప్పాను. రోగికి పత్యమూ ఔషధమూ రుచించనట్లే నాడు నామాటలు మీకు రుచించలేదు. కాకపక్షాలుగల మీ కుమారులు నెమలిరెక్కలుగల పాండవులను జయించడానికి ప్రయత్నిస్తున్నారు. మీరు మృగేంద్రాలను విడిచి సృగాలాలను (నక్కలను)
I told you about this at the beginning of the current crisis. Like one suffering from illness doesn't like the taste of medicine and food, you disregarded my advice. Your sons like crow wings are going after Pandavas like peacock wings. You have taken the side of wolves disregarding lions. Unless death arrives, you won't repent. A king who doesn't show anger at an adviser sharing his wisdom, will be trusted by the subordinates. They won't abandon the king no matter the danger.
రక్షిద్దామనుకుంటున్నారు. కాలమాసన్నమైతేగానీ మీకు పశ్చాత్తాపం రాదు. తన హితాన్ని కోరే సేవకుని యందు క్రోధం చూపని ప్రభువును భృత్యులు విశ్వసిస్తారు. ఎన్ని ఆపదలు వచ్చినా వారు ప్రభువును విడువరు.
సేవకుల జీవితభారాన్ని లక్ష్యం చెయ్యకుండా యితరుల రాజ్యధనాలను అపహరించే ప్రయత్నం చేయకూడదు. భోగవంచితులైన మంత్రులు జీవితం నిర్వహించలేక విద్వేషులతో కలుస్తారు. తమ (పభువును
Kings should not steal the wealth and kingdom of others without taking care of their subordinates first. The ministers deceived by the king and not paid what is due to them, join their hands with enemies of the king. A king has to keep track of income and expenses, must pay appropriate salaries and hire qualified people as subordinates. This way any difficult situation can be overcome. One who understands the mind of the king and completes the tasks in time; one who always tells what is good for the king; a faithful devotee of his king; a man of good character, one who knows the strength and power of the king is equivalent to the king. The king should get rid of one who doesn't finish the tasks assigned by him, one who is arrogant; one who talks in opposition to him.
విడిచిపెడతారు. ఆదాయవ్యయాల ననుసరి౦చి ఉచితరీతిని వేతనాలు యిస్తూ యోగ్యులను సహాయకులుగా గ్రహించాలి. అందువల్ల ఎంతటి క్లిష్టకార్యాలైనా సాధించవచ్చు. ప్రభువుయొక్క అభిమతం గ్రహించి సకాలంలో సర్వకార్యాలు నిర్వర్తించేవాడూ, హితవునే చెప్పేవాడూ, స్వామి భక్తుడూ, సజ్జనుడూ, రాజశక్తిని ఎరిగినవాడూ, ప్రభువుతో సమానుడు. రాజుయొక్క ఆదేశాన్ని పాలించకుండా ఇతర కార్యమగ్నుడై అహంకారంతో ప్రభువును ప్రతికూలిస్తూ ప్రసంగించే సేవకుని ఉత్తరక్షణంలో పరిత్యజించాలి.
అహంకారశూన్యుడూ, శీఘ్రకార్యరహితుడూ, దయాళువూ, పరిశుద్ధ చిత్తుడూ, ఇతరుల ఎరలకులొంగనివాడూ, ఆరోగ్యవంతుడూ, ఉదారవచనుడూ, అయిన వానిని దూతగా గ్రహించాలి. సావధానచిత్తంతో మెలిగే
One humble, not in haste, kind, pure at heart, steadfast without yielding to enticements, healthy, speaks softly should be used as a mediator and a messenger.
వాడు సమయాసమయాలు గుర్తించకూండా కేవల౦ విశ్వాసంతో పరగృహాలకు పోకూడదు. రాత్రివేళల శృ౦గాట కాలలో నిలబడకూడదు. ప్రభువువాంఛించే స్త్రీని అభిలషించకూడదు. దుష్టులైన మంత్రులతో పరివేష్టుతుడై రాజు కొలువులో ఉన్నప్పుడు వానిమాటను ఖండించకూడదు. తన అవిశ్వాసాన్ని ప్రకటించకూడదు. ఆ సభలో ఆసీనుడై ఉండడమే శ్వేయస్కరం కాదు.
One who is alert should not go to others' houses at any time he wishes by believing they can be trusted. One should not bother others at night when they are romancing with their consorts. One should not seek the woman sought by the king. When a king is surrounded by evil ministers, one should not condemn them and reveal his lack of faith. It is better to not even attend such a court. If not, by making an excuse one should leave.
ఏదో యుక్తితో సభనుండి నిష్క్రమించాలి. దయాహృదయుడైన రాజుతో, వ్యభిచరించే స్త్రీతో, పుత్రులతో, సోదరులతో, రాజోద్యోగులతో, పసిపిల్లలు గల విధవతో, సైనికులతో, అధికారం కోల్పోయినవారితో, ఇచ్చిపుచ్చు కొనే వ్యాపారాలు సాగించకూడదు. ఉత్తమకులము, శాస్త్రజ్ఞానమూ, ఇంద్రియనిగ్రహమూ, పరాక్రమమూ, దానశీలమూ, కృతజ్ఞతా స్వభావమూ, మితభాషిత్వమూ గల పురుషులు ప్రపంచంలో కీర్తి పొందుతారు.
One should not do give and take transactions with a kind hearted king, a woman, sons, brothers, servants of the king, a widow with small children, soldiers, ones who lost their power.
నిత్యస్నాతుడి కివన్నీ లభిస్తాయి: బలరూపాలూ, ఉజ్జ్వల దేహకాంతీ, కోమలస్వభావము, మధురకంఠమూ, సుగంధదేహమూ, పవిత్రాచారమూ, సౌకుమార్యమూ, శోభా, సుందర స్త్రీ జన పరిచయమూ, నిత్యస్నాతునికి చేరుతాయి. మితంగా భుజించేవానికి బలంతోపాటు సుఖమూ, ఉత్తమసంతానమూ, ఆరోగ్యమూ, ఆయుర్దాయమూ లభిస్తాయి.
One who follows hygiene and takes a bath every day will have strength, aura, soft spokenness, sweet voice, fragrant body, good conduct, tenderness, resplendence, acquaintance with women. One who eats moderately will not only be strong, but also will have good progeny, health and longevity.
సోమరి, అమితభక్షకుడు, సర్వజనవిరోధి, మాయావిదుడు, క్రూరుడు, దేశకాల జ్ఞానశూన్యుడు, నిందిత వేషాలు ధరి౦చేవాడు వీరిని మన ఇండ్లలో ఉండనివ్వరాదు. దుఃఖంలొ ఉన్నా కృపణుడూ, మూర్ఖుడూ, నిందస్వభావడూ, ధూర్తుడూ, అరణ్యవాసీ, నీచసేవకుడూ, దయారహితుడూ, కృతఘ్నుడూ, వైరీ అయినవారి సహయం కోరకూడదు.
One who is lazy, a glutton, an enemy of all; one who relies on maya, is cruel, doesn't know about time and space, is censured should not be invited to stay in our houses. Even when in sorrow, we should not seek the help of one who is a fool, is covetous; blames without a reason; wicked; is a denizen of a forest; is a low life; has no kindness; is ungrateful.
ప్రమాదపరిస్టితులు కల్పించేవాడూ, క్లేశ కరుడూ, అసత్యవాదీ, స్నేహితుడూ, అస్థిరభక్తుడూ, స్వాభిమానీ అయినవానిని సేవించరాదు.
One who creates dangerous situations and problems, speaks lies, a friend, a fickle minded devotee, indulging in self praise should not be served.
ధనం సంపాదించడానికి సహాయమవసరం. సహాయకుడు ధనాన్ని వాంఛిస్తాడు. ఈ విధంగా వీరిమధ్య ఒక అనుబంధం ఉన్నది.
To earn money one needs a helper who expects money. Thus there is a relationship between them.
పుత్రులను కని వారిని బుణముక్తులను చేసి వారి జీవితానికి ఉచితమైన ఏర్పాట్లు చేయాలి. తన కుమార్తెలకు యోగ్యులైన వరులతో పెండ్లిండ్లు చేసి మునివృత్తిని గ్రహించి జీవించాలి. సర్యప్రాణి హితకరమై ఆత్మసుఖదాయకమై ఉండే పనిని
When one has sons, they should be made debt-free and provide what is necessary to succeed in their lives. As for daughters, the parent has to marry them to a suitable groom. Once all the children are settled in life, he should become a renouncer. The basis for all yogic powers is doing karma that benefits all lives, pleases the self, is done unselfishly, is surrendered to Eswara.
నిష్కామద్రుష్ట్యా ఈశ్వరార్పణ బుద్ధితో చెయ్యడమే సర్వసిద్ధులకూ మూలము. ఎవని పరాక్రమ ప్రభావ ఉద్యోగ తేజశ్శక్తులు ప్రవృద్ధ మవుతూంటాయో
Those who are valorous, strong and powerful are not afraid of conduct in life. Now you are in a mood to go to war with Pandavas who can't be defeated even by Indra and Devas.
వానికి జీవితనిర్వహణమీద భయం కలగదు. మీరిప్పుడు పాండవులతో యుద్దం చేసే దృష్టితో ఉన్నారు. ఒక్కసారి ఆలోచించండి, పాండవులతో సంగ్రామం ఇంద్రాదులకు కూడా ప్రమాదమే,
ఉద్వేగపూర్ణమైన జీవితం కీర్తిని నశింపచేస్తుంది. పుత్రసదృశులతో వైరం శత్రుకోటికి బలాన్ని కూరుస్తుంది. ఆకాశంలో వక్రంగా ఉదయించే ధూమకేతువు ఉపద్రవాలకు హేతువు. అదేరీతిగా భీష్మ, ద్రోణ, ధర్మరాజాదుల క్రోధం నాశనానికే వస్తుంది. నీ నూరుగురు బిడ్డలూ, కర్ణుడూ, పంచపాండవులూ కలిసి ఉంటే ఈ సముద్రపర్యంతభూమండలాన్నీ శాసించగలరు.
An agitated mind destroys fame. Enmity with children like people will make the enemies stronger. A comet is a portender of disaster. Similarly the anger of Bheeshma, Drona, Dharma Raja et al. will lead to cataclysm. If your hundred sons, Karna and the five Pandavas are united, they will be undefeated kings of the land.
దుర్యోధనాదులు అరణ్య మైతే పాండవులు వనవ్యాఘ్రాలు. అరణ్యంనుండి శార్ధూలాలను (పులులను) పారదోలి వనాన్ని నశింపచెయ్యకండి. పాపైక చిత్తులూ, పరదోషపరాయణులూ పోయేదారిని పోవద్దు. స్వర్గం నుండి అమృతం చితం కానట్లు ధర్మంనుండి అర్ధం వేరుకాదు. పాపదూరుడై కల్యాణ
If Duryodhana et al. are forest, Pandavas are like lions. Don't drive away tigers from the forest and destroy it. Don't traverse the path of sinners and evil people. Just as one can't think of a heaven without elixir of life, one can't separate wealth from dharma. One who stays away from sin, has a clean conscience, understands the nature of the world, follows a path of rectitude for dharma, wealth and fulfilling desires attains a superior after life. One who is not perturbed by censure or praise, not infatuated despite the dangerous consequences will achieve kingdom.
లగ్నవిత్తుడై చరించేవాడు ప్రపంచ స్వభావాన్ని గ్రహించి ధర్మార్థ కామాలు సేవిస్తూ ఇహపరాలలో ఉత్తమస్థితి పొందుతాడు. హర్ష క్రోధ సంజనితమైన ఆవేశాలను లొంగదీస్తూ ఆపదలు వచ్చిపడ్డా వ్యామోహం పొందనివాడు రాజ్యలక్ష్మిని పొందుతాడు.
మహారాజా! మనుష్యుడు నాలుగు బలాలతో ఉంటాడు. మొదటిది బాహుబలము. అది నికృష్టమైనది. రెండవది మంచి మంత్రి. ధనసంపదలు మూడోబలం. పితృపైతామహ సంపన్నమైన దున్నదే అది సహజాతబలము. ఈ బలాలన్నిటికీ మించినది బుద్దిబలము.
King, a man has four strengths: one is the strength of physical body which is the lowest; second one is an able minister; third is wealth; fourth is the inheritance from forefathers. Transcending all of them is the strength of intellect.
మనకు విపరీతమైన ప్రమాదాలు కలిగించే పురుషునికి దూరంగా ఉండి వానివల్ల మనకు ఏ ప్రమాదమూ లేదని విశ్వసించరాదు. ప్రభువు మీద శత్రువులమీద నారీ, భోగ, సామర్థ్య, సర్ప, ఆయుర్దాయుల మీద, అధ్యయనంమీద కేవల విశ్వాసము౦చేవాడుండడు. బుద్ధిశరము వేధిస్తే వానికి వైద్యుడు ఏపనీ చేయలేడు. హోమమంత్రసూత్ర ప్రయోగా లేమీ పనిచెయ్యవు. అగ్ని, సింహ,
We should expect trouble even when we keep a dangerous man at a distance. One doesn't fully trust the king, enemy, women, riches, comforts, skill, snakes, longevity, acquired knowledge. A doctor can't cure one who is tormented by his intellect. The performance of fire rituals won't help. Danger awaits one who neglects fire, lions, snakes; who insults people of the same varna. There is no object with more resplendence than fire. It resides in firewood. Until one lights it won't burn. Once it starts burning it is capable of burning an entire forest. Similarly your own progeny Pandavas are as bright as the fire, benevolent, devoid of evil. They are dormant like the fire in wood. If they are huge trees, your children are like creepers on them. They are lions and your sons are the forest. The forest without lions and lions outside the forest can't survive.
సర్పాలను అలక్ష్యం చేసినా, స్వకులసంజాతులను అనాదరి౦చినా ప్రమాదమే. అగ్నికంటె తేజస్సు కలది లేదు. ఇది కాష్ఠంలో ఉంటుంది. ఒకరు వచ్చి మధనం చేసేవరకూ ఆది ఆకట్టెను మండించదు. అంటుకు౦టే ఆ అరణ్యంతోపాటు సర్వాన్నీ దగ్ధం చేస్తుంది. ఇదే రీతిగా ఆత్మవంశీయులైన పాండవులు అగ్నిసదృశ తేజో మయులు, క్షమాహృదయులు, వికారశూన్యులు. కాష్ఠంలో వారు అగ్నిలా దాగి ఉన్నారు. అంతే. వారు వృక్షాలు. నీ కొడుకులు లతలు. వారు సింహాలు. నీ కొడుకులొక అరణ్యం. సింహంలేని అడవీ, అడవిలేని సింహమూ నశించక తప్పుదు. అని ఇంకా యిలా కొనసాగిస్తున్నాడు.
Saturday, March 30, 2024
Vidura Neeti Part 5
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గోపాలకులవలె ఆందరినీ దేవతలు అనుక్షణం రక్షిస్తూ ఉండరు, వా రెవరిని రక్షించగోరుతారో వారిని సక్రమమార్ధాన నడుపుతారంతే. మానవుడు తన మనస్సును కళ్యాణమార్గాన నడిపితే వాని అభీష్టాలు సిద్దిస్తాయి. కపటవ్యవహారం, మాయోపాయం పాపహేతువులే అవుతాయి.
Like cow herders protecting cows, Devas won't be protecting one at all times. They will only be guiding in morally upright path. When one makes mind traverse on a path of rectitude all of his wishes will be fulfilled. Wickedness, evil acts engender sin.
రెక్కలు రాగానే పక్షులు గూళ్ళు విడిచేటట్లు అంతిమకాలంలో వేదాలు కూడా మనిషిని విడుస్తాయి. సురాపానమూ, కలహమూ, భార్యాభర్తల మధ్య ద్వేషాలు పెంచడమూ, సాంఘిక వైరమూ, కుటుంబజనులలో విభేదాలు పెంచటమూ, స్త్రీ పురుపులమధ్య వివాదమూ, రాజుతో వైరమూ ఉచితంకాదు.
Just as chicks fly away from the nest, vedas leave a man in the throes of death. Intoxicants, bickering, enmity with society and family members, argument between men and women, dispute with the king are not recommended.
సాముద్రికుడూ, చోరుడై వ్యాపారంచేసేవాడూ, జూదరీ, వైద్యుడూ శత్రువూ, మిత్రుడూ, నటకుడూ సాక్షులుగా పనికి రారు. స్వాధ్యాయమూ, మౌనమూ, అగ్నిహో త్రమూ , యాగానుష్టానమూ భయవిదూరకాలు.
A navigator of seas, one doing business like a thief, a gambler, a physician, an enemy, a friend, an actor should not be used as witnesses. Self study, silence, fire ritual, practice of yoga will remove all fears.
ఇళ్ళకు నిప్పుపెట్టేవాడు, విషం త్రాగించేవాడూ, జారులవల్ల కలిగిన సంతానధనం తినేవాడూ, సోమరసం విక్రయించేవాడూ, శస్త్రాలు నిర్మించే వాడూ, మోసగాడూ, మిత్రద్రోహీ, పరస్త్రీ ల౦ప
An arsonist, one who makes others drink poison, one who enjoys the wealth of children from an adulterer, one who sells the fruit of a yagna, a cheater, a betrayer should not be befriended.
సత్పురుష సాంగత్యంవల్ల యీ గుణనంపదలు లభిస్తాయి. తపో, యజ్ఞ, దానాధ్యయనాదులు సజ్జన సాంగత్యంవల్లనే కలుగుతాయి. సజ్జనులు సత్య వ్రతంతో మృదుస్వభావంతో కోమలహృదయులై ఇందియనిగ్రహంతో చరిస్తారు. దంభాచారి తపో, దాన, యజ్ఞాధ్యయనాలను భేషజానికి సేవిస్తాడు. దయ, క్షమ, నిర్లోభము, సత్యము ఉత్తములనుష్టిస్తారు.
Penance, yagna, giving alms, are possible by befriending men of good character who don't lie, are soft spoken, and are pure in their hearts. A pompous person does penance, conducts yagna, gives alms to enhance his fame. Kindness, forgiveness, free of covetousness, honesty are the attributes of persons with good character.
ప్రభూ! వృద్దులూ గురువులూ లేనిది సభ కాదు. ధర్మం చెప్పలేనివాడు గురువూ, వృద్ధుడూ కాడు. సత్యబద్దంకానిది ధర్మంకాదు. కపటమైనది సత్యంకాదు. సత్య, వినయ, శాస్త్రజ్ఞాన, కులీన శీల, బల, ధన, శూరత్వ, విద్యా మృదుభాషిత్వాలు స్వర్గహేతువులు.
King, a king's court must have elders and gurus. A person who can't teach dharma is unfit to be considered as a guru or an elder. A thing of lie can't be dharma. An evil thing can't be the truth. Truth, humbleness, knowledge about scripture, good character, strength, valor, soft spokenness are means to attain heaven.
నిందితుడెప్పుడూ పాపకర్మలే చేస్తూ తత్ఫలమే పొందుతాడు. పుణ్యాత్ముడు సత్కర్మలే చేస్తూ స్వర్గం చేరుతాడు. పాపకర్మలు బుద్దిని నశింపచేస్తాయి. బుద్ధిశూన్యుడు పాపాచార పరాయణుడే అవుతాడు. అందుచేత థీమంతుడు సత్కర్మలే ఆచరిస్తూ ఏకాగ్రచిత్తుడై పుణ్యకర్మ రతుడౌతాడు, సద్గుణాలను దోషంగా భావించే వాడూ, మర్మస్థానాలను వేధించేవాడూ. దయారహితుడూ, క్రూరుడూ, శఠడూ కష్టభాజనులవుతారు.
One who is censured always performs sins and receives their fruit. A man of good character performs good karma and attains heaven. Sinful behavior destroys intellect. Hence a learned man performing good acts will be an enjoyer of auspiciousness. One who thinks good attributes are a fault, is devoid of kindness, is always sexually inclined, is cruel experiences difficulties.
ధీమంతుడే పండితుడు. ధర్మార్థాలు వానినే పొందు తాయి. పగలంతా పనిచేసినవాడు రాత్రి సుఖంగా నిద్ర పోగలడు, ఎనిమిదిమాసాలూ కష్టపడినవాడు వర్షాకాలం నాలుగునెలలూ సుఖిస్తాడు, వృద్ధాప్యం వచ్చేలోగా తగిన జాగ్రత్తలు తీసుకోవాలి. పచన మైన అన్నాన్నీ యవ్వనవతియైన స్త్రీని, విజేతయైన శూరునీ, సంసారసాగరం తరించిన తపస్వినీ ధీరులు గ్రహిస్తారు.
A learned man can only be called a pundit. Dharma and wealth accrue to him. One working hard all day can rest well at night. One who works for eight months, will enjoy the rainy season. One has to plan for old age ahead of time. Cooked food, a youthful woman, a victor in a valorous event, an ascetic who discharged his duties as a house holder are beholden by learned men.
అధర్మదోషంవల్ల లభించే సంపదులు నిలబడవు. మరికొన్ని దోషాలుకూడా దాన్ని చేరు తాయి. ఇంద్రియాలను వశపరచుకుని శాసించగల వాడే గురువు. దుష్టులను దండించగలవా డే రాజు. చాటుమాటున పాపాలను చేసినవారిని శిక్షించేవాడే యముడు.
The money earned by not following dharma will not stay for long. A guru is one who controls his senses. One who punishes evil men is a real king. One who performs sinful acts without getting caught will be punished by the lord of death Yama.
బుషుల, నరుల, మహాత్ముల, స్త్రీ దుశ్చరితుల ఉత్పత్తిస్థానాలు మనకు తెలియవు. బ్రాహ్మణ సేవానిరతుడూ, దానశీలుడూ, మృదు స్వబావుడూ, శీలాచారనపంన్నుడూ అయిన ప్రభువు చిరకాలం పృధివిని పాలిస్తాడు. విద్వాంసుడూ శూరుడూ, సేవాధర్మవిదుడూ అయిన వ్యక్తి పృధ్వీ లతనుండి సువర్ణపుష్పం గ్రహించగలడు. ధీశక్తితో చేసే కర్మశ్రేష్ఠమైనది. బాహుబలంతో జరిగేకర్మ మధ్యమమైనది. జఘనకర్మలు అధమాలు. భార వాహకర్మ అధమాధమము.
We don't know about the reproductive organs of rishis, mahatmas, women and immoral people. A king who worships brahmins, gives many alms, is soft spoken, is of good character will rule for a long time A pundit, a valorous person, one interested in servitude will attain golden flowers from the creeper called earth. Karma done with intellect and understanding is the best. Karma done with strength and hard work is second best. Karma done with lust is the worst. Karma done by carrying heavy loads is the worst of the worst.
ప్రభూ! మీరు దుర్యోధన, దుస్సాసన, కర్ణ, శకుని ప్రభృతులపై రాజ్యభార ముంచి ఉన్నతిని శాంతినీ కోరుకున్నారు. గుణసంపన్నులైన పాండవులపై ద్వేషభావం విడిచి పుత్రవాత్సల్యంతో చరించడమే మీకు ఉచితమైన మార్గం అన్నాడు విదురుడు.
King, you are expecting peace and prosperity by giving authority to Duryodhana, Dussasana, Karna, Sakuni and others. Please give up your malice towards Pandavas and treat them like your own children.
మహారాజా! ఈ విషయంలో ప్రాచీనమైన ఐతిహ్యం ఒకటి ఉన్నది. అది దత్తాత్రేయు సాత్య దేవత సంవాదరూపంగా చెబుతారు. అది వినండి.
King, in this regard there is an old teaching based on the conversation between Dattatreya and Saatya Devas.
దత్తాత్రేయమహర్షి ఉత్తమవ్రతంతో పరమ హంసరూపంలో విహరిస్తున్నాడు. అప్పుడు సాత్య దేవతలు వానిని సమీపించి తమను పరిచయం చేసుకుని. మహర్షీ! మేము మిమ్ము శాస్త్రజ్ఞానులుగా ధీమంతులుగా భావిస్తున్నాము. మాకు ఈ సంపూర్ణశక్తియుతమైన సందేశం వినిపించండి-అని అర్థించారు.
Once Dattatreya, a great ascetic, was approached by Saatya Devas and requested him to give them advice.
సాత్యులారా! మనోనిగ్రహమూ, సత్యపరాయణత్వమూ, ధర్మపాలననిరతీ, జీవితాని కవశ్యమైన వని నేను విన్నాను. ధైర్యంతో పురుషుడు హృదయ కవాటం తెరచి ప్రియాప్రియాలను సమదృష్టితో చూడగలగాలి. ఇతరులు నిందించినా తిరిగి నిందించ కూడదు, అందువల్ల ఎదుటివాని క్రోధం వానినే హరిస్తుంది ఆ క్రోధం వారి పుణ్యాన్ని కూడా నశింపచేస్తుంది. పరులను అవమానించరాదు. దురాచారికారాదు, దురభిమానము ఉండకూడదు. మిత్ర ద్రోహము, నీచసంసేవనము ఉచితమైనవికావు.
Dattatreya said "Control of mind, always conducting in truth, ruling with dharma are necessary in life. A bold man should be equanimous about love and hate. One should not reply in kind when blamed. The opponent's hatred will eventually destroy him. It even exhausts his merit. One should not insult others, perform sinful acts, be an egotist. Betraying friends, serving wicked people are to be avoided.
వ్యర్థక్రోధంతో పరుషంగా భాషించకూడదు. కటు వచనాలు మర్మస్టానాలను వేధిస్తాయి. అందుచేత ఎపుడూ పరుషంగా మాట్లాడకూడదు. పరుషంగా భాషిస్తూ పరులను పీడించేవానికంటె దరిద్రుడు లేడు. నిరంతరం దుర్భాషలాడుతూ జీవించేవాని ముఖంలోనే దరిద్రమూ, మృత్యువూ నివశిస్తాయి. మననుగురించి ఎవరైనా పరుషంగా భాషిస్తూంటే, అకారణంగా మననునిందిన్తూంటే వాడు మన పుణ్య ఫలాన్ని పెంపొందిస్తున్నాడని స౦తోషించాలి. వస్త్ర౦ ఏరంగునీటిలో ముంచబడితే అది ఆ రంగునే పొందుతుంది. అదేవిధంగా సజ్జను డైనవానిని దుర్జ నుడు సేవించి సజ్జనుడవుతాడు. మహాతపస్వియై చోరునీ మూర్టుని సేవిస్తే ఆ తపస్వికూడా మూర్థుడూ చోరుడూ అవకతప్పదు. పరిసరాలూ పరిజనులూ తమ ప్రభావాన్ని ప్రసరిస్తూనే ఉంటారు.
One should not talk harshly with rage. Harsh words weaken reproductive organs. There is no one inferior to one who talks harshly. One who speaks harshly, indulges in inauspicious talk is disgusting and is an embodiment of death itself. One who speaks demeaningly about us, blames us without reason, should be considered as increasing our worth and happiness. A cloth receives the color of the liquid it is dipped in. Similarly a bad person serving a man of good character will turn out to be good. An ascetic serving a fool or a thief will become a fool or a thief himself. Surroundings, servants will influence us.
ఇతరుల విషయంలో పరుష ప్రసంగాలు చెయ్యనివాడు, చేయించనివాడు ఇతరులచేత అవ మానితుడైకూడా ప్రతీకారాన్ని తల పెట్టనివాడూ ఏ అవమానమూ పొందకుండా ఇతరులపై ప్రతీకార చర్యలకు పాహసించనివాడూ స్వర్గానికి వస్తూన్నప్పుడు దేవతలు వానికి స్వాగతం పలుకుతారు. మౌనం భాషణంకంటె ఉత్తమమైనది. సత్య వాక్పాలనం మౌనంకంటె లాభప్రదమైనది. ప్రియ భాషణం ద్వితీయస్థానమే ఆక్రమిన్తుంది. సత్యంతో పాటు అది ప్రియంగా ఉంటే, ధర్మసమ్మతం కూడా అయితే ఆ వాక్కు సర్వవిధాలా ఉత్తమ మైనది
Devas welcome to heaven one who doesn't talk harshly; won't seek revenge despite being insulted; won't avenge without being insulted. Silence is better than talk. Honesty is more meritorious than silence. Speaking good is the next best thing. Speech that is honest, meritorious and dharma is the best.
Saturday, March 23, 2024
Vidura Neeti Part 6
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మానవుడు తాను ఎవరిని సేవిస్తాడో ఎవరినరాలలో మెలుగుతూంటాడో ఎటువంటి పరిణామం వాంఛిస్తాడో అది పొందుతాడు. ఏవిషయాలు మనస్సు నుండి తొలగించాలనుకుంటాడో వాటినుండి విముక్తి పొందుతాడు. ఇందువల్ల వానికి దుఃఖం లేదు. ఒకరిని జయించాలని కాని బాధించాలని
A man gets what he desires depending on whom he serves and what he expects. He will be free from unwanted desires if he exercises free will. One who doesn't wish to conquer others, won't try to blame or praise others will be free from sorrow and happiness. One who wishes the best for others, never wants others to suffer, always speaks the truth, conquers his senses, always is soft-spoken is the best among the men.
కాని ఎవడు భావించడో, ఒకరిని నిందించడానికి ప్రశంసించడానికి ఎవడు ప్రయత్నించడో వాడు విచారసంతోషాలకు దూరంగా ఉంటాడు. అందరి సౌఖ్యాన్నీ కోరేవాడూ, ఎవరికీ అనిష్టం జరగాలని తలంచనివాడూ, సర్వకాలాలయందు సత్యమే పలికే వాడూ, జితేంద్రియుడూ, కోమలస్వభావుడూ,
One who keeps his word, shows empathy without impure thoughts, knows the faults of others is the next best among the men.
ఉత్తమ పురుషుడు. వాగ్దానంచేసి తదనుసారం ప్రవర్తించేవాడూ, నిష్కల్మషంగా సానుభూతిని ప్రదర్శించేవాడూ, ఇతరులదోషాల నెరిగినవాడూ మధ్యముడు. కఠోరశాసనాలతో క్రోధవశుడై సర్వజనులకూ అపకారం తలపెడుతూ, మిత్ర రహితుడై కళంకజీవితం గడిపేవాడు అథముడు.
One who promulgates draconian laws with cruelty, causes harm to others, lives without friends and leads a terrible life is lowest among the men.
తనను తనే శంకించుకుంటూ ఇతరుల వల్ల ఏ ప్రయోజనము జరగదని నిశ్చయి౦చుకొని స్నేహితులకు దూరంగా ఉండేవాడు అధమాధముడు.
One who doubts himself, thinks nothing good will come out of befriending others is the lowest of the lowest among men.
మన ఐశ్వర్యం వృద్ధిపొందాలంటే ఉత్తమ పురుషులతో సాంగత్యంకావాలి. అవసరానుసార౦ అధమజన సంసేవనంకూడా అవసరమే, కాని ఈ అధమపురుషులతో అధికకాలం ఉండరాదు.
To multiply our wealth we have to befriend the best among the men. Depending on the circumstance befriending other kinds of men is alright. But such friendship should not last forever.
మానవుడు దుర్జనసాంగత్య బల౦ వల నిరంతర ప్రయత్నంవల్ల పురుషార్థ ప్రయోగంతో ధనార్జన చెయ్యవచ్చు. కాని తన్మూలంగా వాడు ఉత్తమ పురుషులవల్ల సన్మానం పొందలేడు.
One by befriending the wicked and evil men may become wealthy. But he can't earn the praise of noble men.
ధృతరాష్ట్రుడు:- ధర్మార్థాలను అనుష్ఠించే దేవతలుకూడా ఉత్తమకులంలో జన్మించిన పురుషులనే సమ్మానిస్తారు, ఈ మహాకులీనులనగా ఎవరు?"
Dhrutarashtra asked "The Devas who pursue dharma and wealth will felicitate the best among the men. Who are the men in good lineage?"
విదురుడు:- ప్రభూ! జితేంద్రియుడై యజ్ఞము తపస్సు అన్నదానము సదాచారంతో సాగిస్తూ, మనస్పును వశంలో ఉంచుకొని, వివాహబంధాన్ని పవిత్రంగా నడిపేవాడు, ఉత్తమకులీనుడు, భ్రష్ట్రం కాని సదాచారాలతో తల్లిదండ్రులకు ఏమాత్ర౦ నష్టం కలగకుండా ప్రసన్న చిత్తంతో ధర్మాచార పరాయణుడై, అనృతమాడకుండా వంశాభ్యుదయాన్ని కోరేవాడు మహాకులీనుడు.
Vidra replied "King, one who conquers senses; performs yagnas, penance and alms; controls his mind; discharges household duties with pure heart is a person of good lineage. One who serves his parents with dedication, follows dharma, never lies, strives for the enrichment of his family is a person of the best lineage.
యజ్ఞకర్మ నిర్వర్తించకపోయినా దోషభూయిష్ట వంశంనుండి కన్యను పరిగ్రహించినా, వేదాన్ని త్యజించినా ధర్మాన్ని ఉల్ల౦ఘించినా అధమకులమే ప్రాప్తిస్తుంది. దేవ బ్రాహ్మణ మాన్యాలు హరించినా, విప్ర మర్యాదలు ఉల్లంఘించినా, సుకులీనుడు అధముడౌతాడు.
One who doesn't perform yagna, marries a woman from a family with infamy, rejects vedas, confiscates the land belonging to brahmins and Devas, fails to honor brahmins, even if he is of good lineage will turn into the lowest among the men.
విప్రులను అనాదరించినా, అందరినీ నిందించినా, దాచబెట్టిన వస్తువులను దొంగిలించినా పై స్థితియే మానవునకు కలుగుతుంది. గో, ధన, జన, సంపత్తులున్నా సదాచారం లేకపోతే వాడు మహి కులీనుడు కాడు. ఆచారసంఫత్తి సక్రమంగా సాగితే కులీనత సిద్ధిస్తుంది. అందుచేతనే సదాచారాలను ప్రయత్న పూర్వకంగా రక్షించుకోవాలి.
One who insults brahmins, blames everyone, steals will become the lowest among the men. Despite having cows, wealth, servants, if one doesn't have good conduct he can't be the best in the varna. After performing good acts regularly he may reverse the course. Hence we have to strive to perform good acts.
ఈ సంపదలున్నవే యివి వస్తూ పోతూ ఉంటాయి, కాని సదాచారం అటువంటిదికాదు. సంపద క్షీణించినంతలో సదాచారం క్షీణించదు. ఆచార భ్రష్టుడు మృతకల్పుడు. అచారహీనుడు సర్వైశ్వరాలతో ఉన్నా ఔన్నత్యం పాందలేడు. పరధనాపహరణకు ప్రయత్నించేవాడూ, స్వకులంలో ముసలం పెట్టే వాడూ, మిత్రద్రోహి, కపటస్వభావుడూ, అసత్యవాది, ఉత్తములు కారు. అదేరీతిగా మాతాపితరులకు, దేవతలకు ఆహారమివ్వకు౦డా ఆరగించేవాడూ, బ్రహ్మహంతకుడూ, బ్రహ్మద్వేషి, పితృతర్పణ రహితుడూ, మన నభలోకిరాకూడదు.
Wealth comes and goes. But good conduct is not like that. Even when wealth shrinks, good conduct won't disappear. One who violates customs and doesn't have good conduct is dead for all practical purposes. Without good conduct, even if one is rich, he can't gain fame. One who tries to steal others' wealth, creates conflict in his varna, betrays his friends, wicked, a liar is not the best among men. One who ingests food without first offering to Devas and parents, abuses Brahma, doesn't propitiate ancestors, should not be entertained in King's court.
మధురమైన వాక్కూ , ఆస్వాదయోగ్యమైన జలమూ, అవసరమైన స్థలమూ, దర్భాసనమూ ఈ నాల్గింటికి సజ్జన గృహాలలో లోటురాదు. ఈ నాలుగూ ధర్మపురుష గృహాలలో శ్రద్దతో చూపబడుతుంటాయి.
There is no dearth of soft spokenness, drinkable water, needed land, a seat made of dry grass in the houses of men with good conduct. These four will be available in the homes of men of good conduct.
రథం చిన్నదైనా ఎంతో బరువు మొయ్య గలుగుతుంది. కాని ఎంత పెద్దదైనా కర్రకు బరువు మోసే శక్తి లేదు. అదేరీతిగా ఉత్తమకులంలో ఉన్న వారు ఎంతటి భారమైనా భరించగలరు.
A chariot can carry many times its weight. The same can't be done by a stick no matter how big it is. Similarly men born in higher varnas can carry any burden easily.
ఎదుటి వారి కోపానికి భయపడి వారివల్ల ప్రమాదాన్ని శంకించి చరించేవాడు మిత్రుడుకాడు. పితృతుల్యంగా విశ్వసించ తగినవాడే మిత్రుడు. మిగిలిన వారు సహచరులు మాత్రమే. ఇతఃపూర్వము ఏ సంబంధమూ లేకపోయినా మైత్రిని ప్రకటిస్తూ సహాయకుడై, అశ్రయుడై, అచంచల చిత్తుడై, వృద్దసంసేవకుడై ఉండేవాడే మిత్రుడు.
One who fears others' anger and behaves expecting danger from others is not a friend. One who can be trusted like a father is the real friend. The rest are only acquaintances. Without prior relationship, one who declares friendship, offers help unconditionally, seeks refuge, behaves with a steady mind, serves old people is the real friend.
ఎండిన కొలనుచుట్టూ హంనలు తిరగవచ్చు. కాని అందులోప్రవేశించవు. అదేరీతిగా చంచలుడూ, అజ్ఞానీ, ఇంద్రియలోలుడూ అయినవానిని, లక్ష్మి వరించదు. మెరుపువలె అతి చంచలమైనది దుష్టస్వభావము. వారికి అకస్మాత్తుగా ఆగ్రహమూ అనుగ్రహమూ కూడా కలుగుతాయి. కృతఘ్నుల మాంసము జంతువులు కూడా ముట్టవు.
Swans might go around dried lakes, but they won't enter them. Similarly wealth won't stay with a fickle minded, ignorant, and one subservient to his senses. The conduct of evil men is unstable like lightning. They feel rage and benevolence suddenly. The betrayer's flesh won't be touched even by animals.
సిరిసంపదలున్నా పోయినా, మిత్ర సత్కారం జరుగుతూనే ఉండాలి. మిత్రుల శక్తియుక్తులను పరీక్షిస్తూ కూర్చోకూడదు. సంతాపం వల్ల బలమూ, రూపమూ, జ్ఞానమూ నశిస్తాయి. అంతేకాని అభీష్ట వస్తువులు సిద్ధించవు.
Regardless of wealth, one has to honor his friends. One should not keep on testing his friends' strength and wisdom. With sorrow, strength, beauty and knowledge will shrivel and one won't be able to fulfill desires.
మహారాజా! అందుచేత మీరు సంతాపం విడిచి పెట్టి ప్రసన్నచిత్తంతో ఉండండి. జనన మరణాలు జీవికి ఎన్నోసార్లు కలుగుతూంటాయి. సుఖదుఃఖాలు, లాభనష్టాలు ప్రతిప్రాణికి నహజమే. అందుచేతనే ధీరుడు వీటివిషయంలో హర్షశోకాలు పెంచుకోడు. ఈ ఇంద్రియాలున్నవే అవి మిక్కిలి చంచలమైనవి. ఏ ఇంద్రియం విషయాసక్తమౌతుందో అటువైవు బుద్ది క్షీణీస్తూంటుంది. కుండకు ఏవైపున రంధ్రమేర్చడితే అటునుండే కదా నీరు పోతుంది!
King, hence give up sorrow and remain calm. A jiva will experience birth and death several times. Happiness-sorrow, profit-loss are natural to every jiva. Hence one who is strong minded won't be dejected or elated. The senses are the most fickle. Like water leaking in whichever location a pot has a hole, the intellect will drain depending on which sense organ is in bondage with worldly matters.
ధృతరాష్ట్రుడు: . సూక్ష్మధర్మబంధితుడూ శిఖాసంశోభితుడూ అయిన ధర్మరాజుతో నేను కపట వ్యవహారం సాగించాను. పర్యవసానంగా వారు యుద్ధం చేసి నాకుమారులను సంహరిస్తారు. ఇది నా హృదయాన్ని వేధిస్తోంది, దీనిని వదులు కొనే శాంతిమార్ధం చెప్పు,
Dhrutarashtra said "I behaved wickedly with Dharma Raja who is an embodiment of good qualities and dharma. So he and Pandavas will kill my sons in the battle field. This has been tormenting me. Please advise me how to overcome it."
తపస్సూ ఇంద్రియ నిగ్రహమూ, విద్య తప్ప శాంతిసాధనా లేమి లేవు, లోభరహిత బుద్దితో చరించిన వానికి ఏ హానీ ఉండదు. మన బుద్ధితో మన భయాలను దూరం చేసుకుని తపస్సుతో ఉత్తమ పదం పొందగలం. గురుశుశ్రూషతో జ్ఞానం సిద్ధి స్తుంది. యోగంవల్ల శాంతి కలుగుతుంది. మోక్ష వాంఛ కలవాడు వేద దాన సంజనితమైన పుణ్యాన్ని ఆశించక నిష్కామదృష్టితో చరిస్తూంటాడు. సక్రమ విధానంగా చేసిన వేదాధ్యయన ఫలమూ, న్యాయంగా చేసిన యుద్ధఫలమూ, పుణ్యకర్మల ఫలమూ, తపః ఫలమూ అంతమందే సౌఖ్యమిస్తాయి.
Penance, control of senses, knowledge acquisition are the only ways to attain peace. One who doesn't covet will not meet with harm. With a good mind, one can overcome fears. With penance one can attain a better after life. By serving a guru, knowledge is acquired. By the practice of yoga peace will be attained. One who is interested in salvation, will not desire the fruit of karma and acts dispassionately. The fruit of reciting vedas, battles fought for just reasons, good karma and penance will give pleasure in the end.
విద్వేషం కలవారు హంసతూలికా తల్పంమాద శయనించినా సుఖంగా నిదురపోలేరు. పరిసరాలలో వంది మాగధ నారీజనులు సంకీర్తనలు చేస్తున్నా సంతోషించలేరు. ధర్మమార్గాన చరించలేరు. గౌరవ సుఖాలను అనుభవించలేరు. శాంతిమార్గమూ, హితవాక్యమూ వారికి నచ్చవు. వారికి క్షేమం కలుగదు. వినాశనమే గత్యంతరం.
Those harboring hatred can't sleep well even on a bed made of feathers of swans. Even when great devotees praise the god, they can't remain happy. They can't follow dharma. They can't enjoy honor and comfort. They don't appreciate peace and wise advice. They can't get an auspicious outcome. Their only recourse is self destruction.
బ్రాహ్మణుని తపస్సూ, యువతులయందు చపలత్వమూ, ఆవు దగ్గరపాలవలె ఉంటాయి. అదే రీతిగా స్వజాతి వైరం విసర్గమైన యంవల్ల ఏర్పడడంలో అసంభవం లేదు. అనుదినము నీటితో తడుపబడి పెరిగే లతలు గాలితరంగాలను సహి౦చగలుగుతాయి. అదే రీతిగా సజ్జనులు సా౦గత్యబలంవల్ల క్లేశాలను సహించగలము. కట్టెలు విడివిడిగా పడి ఉంటే పొగలు మాత్రమే వస్తాయి. కలిసినప్పుడు మండుతాయి, అదేరీతిగా బంధుకోటి భేదభావంతో చరిస్తే దుఃఖమే వస్తుంది.
The penance of a brahmin, the infatuation with young women are like cow's milk. Similarly fighting with people of one's own varna will invite trouble from the god of death, Yama. Like lotuses that are tossed by water currents can tolerate wind, the friendship with people of good conduct will overcome obstacles. When firewood is not tied together it will cause smoke but not fire. Similarly one who differs from relationships experiences sorrow.
గో, నారీ, విప్ర స్వజాతిజనులమీద తమ శౌర్యం ప్రకటించేవారు మిగుల ముగ్గిన పండువలె నేలకూలుతారు. చెట్టు తానొక్కటీ పెరిగినట్టయితే బలంగానూ, గట్టి వేళ్ళతోనూ ఉండవచ్చు, కానీ గాలివాన ఒక్క కణంలో దాన్ని ఊడ్చివేస్తుంది. కాని వృక్షసమూహం పరస్పర సహకారంతో ప్రచండానిలాలను సహించగలవు. అదే రీతిగా సద్గుణ సంపన్నుడు ఏకాకిగా ఉంటే శత్రువులు వానిని చెప్పినట్లు ఆ వృక్షంలానే చూస్తారు. కాని కలయికవల్త సరోవరంలోని కమలాలవలె ప్రజలు వర్థిల్లుతారు.
One who shows valor on cows, women, brahmins, men of the same varna will fall like a ripe fruit. A tree may grow tall but by a storm it can be uprooted. Whereas a group of trees, abetting each other, can withstand a cyclone. Similarly a man of good attributes when alone, enemies will overcome him. But when he is not alone and in the company of others, like lotuses in the pond his subjects will prosper.
గోవులు, విప్రులు, కుటుంబ జనులు, స్త్రీలు, బాలురు, శరణాగతులు, అన్నదాతలు, అవధ్యులని విదులు ఘోషిస్తున్నారు. మనుష్యునిలో ఆరోగ్యమూ సంపదా రెండూ తప్ప మరే గుణమూ లేదు. రోగి శవకల్పుడు. రోగరహితంగా పుట్టి శిరోవేదనతో వేధిస్తూ పాపకర్మలకు సహకరించే క్రోధాన్ని దిగమింగి మీరు శాంతి పొందాలి.
Vedas forbid killing cows, brahmins, family members, women, children, those surrendered, those serving food. There is no higher attribute than health and wealth. A diseased is almost dead. You, having been born without an illness, have to attain peace by giving up hatred and not abetting evil acts.
రోగి నోటికి మధురపదార్థాలు రుచించవు. ఏ విష యమూ సుఖాన్నివ్వదు. దుఃఖమే వారిని వేధిస్తు౦టూంది. భోగాలు సుఖాలు దూరంగానే ఉంటాయి. మహారాజా ! ద్యూతసమయంలో వీరు ద్రౌపతినికుడా జయించినప్పుడు ఈ ప్రయత్నం నుండి వీరిని విరమింపజెయ్యమని మీతో చెప్పాను, విద్వాంసులు దీనిని మెచ్చడంలేదని చెప్పాను. కానీ నామాట మీకు చెవిని బెట్టలేదు.
A diseased person can't enjoy food. Nothing gives him pleasure. He feels only sorrow. When Droupadi was being ill treated, I advised you to stop the Kauravas. I told you scholars didn't appreciate it. Despite my warnings, you ignored me.
పైకి మృదువుగా కన్పిన్తూ విరోధభావంతో చరించడం ఎవరికీ మంచిది కాదు. ధర్మసూక్ష్మాలను గ్రహించి, ఆచరించాలి. క్రౌర్యంతో సాధించిన పంపదలు నశిస్తాయి. మృదువ్యవహారమే సంపదలకు శాశ్వతత్వం చేకూరుస్తుంది. కురుపాండవులుభయులూ వైరభావం విడిచిపెట్టి సఖ్యంతో సాగాలి. ఉభయులూ సర్వ సమృద్దితో జీవించాలి.
It is not good for anyone, when one outwardly is friendly but in heart has enmity. One has to understand and follow dharma. Wealth garnered by cruelty will be destroyed. Only good karma engenders permanent happiness and wealth. Both Kauravas and Pandavas should give up enmity and live like friends. Both should enjoy prosperity.
ఈ కురువంశం మీ ఆధీన౦లో ఉంది. కాంతేయులు యింకా బాలురు. వారు ఎన్నో వనవాసక్షేశాలు అనుభవించి వచ్చారు. వారిని రక్షించి మీ కీర్తిని దిగంతవ్యాప్తం చేసుకోండి. అప్పుడు మీ శత్రువులు మీకు భయపడతారు. సత్యప్రియులైన పాండవులతో సంగ్రామం సాగించడం ఉచితం కాదని చెప్పి దుర్యోధనుని వారించండి.
The Kuru dynasty is in your control. The Pandavas are still young. They suffered by staying in the forest. By protecting them, you will attain name and fame in all lokas. Then your enemies will fear you. Advise Duryodhana that it is not proper to battle with Pandavas who follow dharma and truth.
మహారాజా ! స్వాయంభువమనువు మనుష్యులను కొన్ని తరగతులుగా విభజించాడు. వారి వివరాలు వినండి. ఆకాశాన్ని తమ గుప్పిడితో వేధించ పృయత్నించేవారూ, ఇంద్రధనస్సును వంచడానికి యత్నించేవారూ, సూర్యకిరణాలను పట్టుకోవడానికి (పయత్నించేవారూ ఉన్నారు. వీరినందరినీ యమ దూతలు నరకానికి తీసుకొని వెడతారు. శత్రువును
King, Swaayambhu Manu classified men into various categories. Those who try to capture sky in their fists, bend the rainbows, catch the rays of sun, will be taken to hell by the soldiers of Yama. Those who serve enemies, treat scholars as servants, rescue a woman who doesn't deserve help, beg the unqualified men, perform despicable acts even when born in a superior varna, develop enmity with stronger people, advise one who has no stable mind, desire for things that should not be desired, seek company of daughters-in-law, lust for women, forget the favors done by others, give alms and advertise before others, assert lies as truth will meet with self destruction.
సేవించేవారు, యోగ్యులను శాసించేవారు, అనర్హ స్త్రీని రక్షించేవారు, అమె ద్వారా అత్మకళ్యాణ౦ కోరేవారు, అయోగ్యులను యాచించేవాడు కులీనుడై జన్మించి నీచకర్మలు చేసేవాడు, దుర్బలుడై బలిష్టు లతో వైరం పెంచుకొనేవాడు, శ్రద్ద లేనివానికి ఉపదేశమిచ్చేవాడు, కోరరాని వస్తువులను కోరేవాడు, కోడలితో పరిహాసాలాడేవాడు, ఏకాంత౦లోఆమెతో చరించి ప్రతిష్ఠను నిలబెట్టుకో ప్రయత్నించేవాడు, పరస్త్రీ సంగమం చేసేవాడు, మహిళామణులను నిందించేవాడు, యితరులనుండి గ్రహించినదానిని విస్మరించేవాడు, దానంచేసి ఆవిషయాన్ని పదిమంది ముందు ప్రకటించుకొనేవాడు, అసత్వాన్ని సత్యంగా ప్రతిపాదించేవాడు, అని మనువు మానవుల పతన తరగతులను విభజించాడు,
మహారాజా ! ఎదుటిప్రాణి తనతో ఎలా వ్యవహరిసే తానుకూడా వారితో ఆలానే వర్తించాలి. కపట వ్యవహారానికి కపటపువృత్తియే ఉచితవ్యాపారం. సక్రమ వ్యవహారానకి సన్మార్గమే ఆధారము. వార్ధక్యం రూపాన్నీ, ఆశ ధైర్యాన్నీ, మృత్యువు (పాణాన్నీ, దోషదృష్టి ధర్మాన్నీ, కామం సిగ్గునూ, నీచపురుషసంసేవనం సదాచారాన్నీ, క్రోధం సంపదలనూ, అభిమానం సర్వస్వాన్నీ నశింపజేస్తాయి అని విదురుడు చెప్పగా ధృతరాష్ట్రుడు తన సందేహాలను నివారించుకొనేందుకు తిరిగి ప్రశ్నిస్తున్నాడు.
King, we should do to others what we want others to do unto us. Evil conduct has to be countered with evil. A good act is based on good conduct. Old age destroys youth, greed overrides courage, death robs life, wicked acts violate dharma, lust overcomes shame, service to low lives destroys good conduct, hatred removes wealth and ego destroys everything.
Saturday, March 16, 2024
Vidura Neeti Part 4
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జితేంద్రియుడు శుక్లపక్ష చంద్రునివలె వృద్ధిపొందుతాడు. ఇంద్రియాలనూ మనస్సునూ జయించ కుండా, మంత్రులను స్వాధీనంలో ఉంచుకోగోరేవాడూ, మంత్రులను వశపరుచుకోకుండా శత్రువులను జయించగోరేవాడూ, ప్రజాభిమానం పొందలేరు. మనశత్రువును ముందు జయించాలి. మనస్సును జయించి అపరాధులను శిక్షిస్తూ కార్యాలను పరిశీలిస్తూ ఉండేవారిని లక్ష్మి వరిస్తుంది.
One who conquered senses would grow like a waxing moon. One trying to keep his ministers in one's control, without conquering senses and mind; one trying to win over the enemies without controlling his ministers can't attain popularity among the subjects. A king should conquer his enemies. Goddess Lakshmi will favor those conquering their senses, punishing criminals and monitoring the subordinates.
ఈ మానవశరీరమొక రథం. దానికి బుద్ధి సారధి. ఇంద్రియాలు అశ్వాలు. వీనిని వశంలో ఉంచుకొనేవాడు మహారధికుని వలె సంసార సంగ్రామంలో జయం పొందుతాడు. అశిక్షితాలై పట్టు తప్పిన గుఱ్ఱాలు మధ్య మార్గ౦లో సారధిని పడగొట్టేటట్టు వశంలోని ఇంద్రియాలు పురుషుని అర్థానర్దజ్ఞానాన్ని నశింపజేసి దుఃఖభాగుని జేస్తాయి. ధర్మార్థాలను విడిచి విషయలోలుడై చరించేవాడు అచిరకాలంలో ఐశ్వర్య ప్రాణ స్త్రీ ధనాలను పోగొట్టు గుంటాడు, ఆత్మజ్ఞాని గ్రహించడానికి నిరంతరం కృషి చెయ్యాలి. ఆత్మకు మి౦చిన మిత్రుడూ శత్రువూ లేరు. దాన్ని జయించినవారికి అదే మిత్రము. లేకపోతే అదే పరమశత్రువు. సూక్ష్మరంధ్రాలు కల వలలోపడ్డ రెండు పెద్దచేపలు దానిని కొరికి వేసేటట్టు కామక్రోధాలనే మీనాలు వివేకాన్ని నశింవ చేస్తాయి.
A man's body is the chariot. Intellect is the charioteer. Senses are the horses. Like the able charioteer holding the reins, one will win in the battle of life by controlling the body, intellect and senses. Just as untamed wild horses will displace the rider midway, uncontrolled senses will bring infamy and sorrow. One who flouts dharma will lose wealth, wife, riches, even life. A self-realized must exert everyday. There is no bigger friend or enemy than the self. To those conquering the self, it is the best friend; otherwise it is the worst enemy. Like the fish that can gnaw away the net, lust and hatred destroy the intellect.
ధర్మార్థాలను పరిశీలించుకొని విజయం కోసం కృషిచేసేవాడు సులభంగా వానిని సాధిస్తాడు. చిత్తవికారానికి హేతుభూతాలైన పంచే౦ద్రియాలను శత్రువులుగా భావించి వానిని జయిస్తేనే శత్రు విజయం సాధ్యమవుతుంది. సాధువులు సత్కర్మల వల్ల, రాజు రాజ్య భోగాలవల్ల సుఖులవుతారు. పాపాత్ములతో సాంగత్యంగల సజ్జనులు కూడా దండనార్హులే అవుతారు, ఎండిన కట్టెతో కలిసే పచ్చికర్రకు కూడా అగ్నిబాధ తప్పదుకదా!
The one trying for victory by analyzing his dharma and wealth will attain them easily. One who considers the five senses as responsible for the different mental states, and tries to conquer them will eventually win over his enemies. Ascetics by good karma, kings with palatial luxuries will enjoy life. The chaste ones making friendship with the wicked also become eligible for punishment, like wet wood burning with tinder.
అందుచేతనే దుర్జనసాంగత్యం ఉచితం కాదు. ఇంద్రియలోలుని ఆ ఇంద్రియాలే ఆరగిస్తాయి. గుణగ్రహణమూ, సరళ స్వభావమూ, పవిత్రహృదయమూ, సంతోషభావమూ, మృదువచనమూ, సత్య వ్రతమూ, ఇంద్రియ సంయమనమూ దుష్టుల దరిజేరవు. అత్మజ్ఞానమూ, క్రోధరాహిత్యమూ, సహన శీలమూ, వాగ్దానరక్షణా, దానశీలమూ, ధర్మపరాయణతా అధములకు పట్టవు. విద్వాంసులను నిందిస్తూ మూర్ఖులు సంతోషిస్తారు. ఎదుటవానిని నిందించడమే స్వభావంగా కలవాడు మహాపాపి. నిందలను సహిస్తూ వారిని క్షమించేవాడు పుణ్యాత్ముడు. హింస దుష్టులకు బలం. దండనీతి రాజులకు బలం. సేవ స్రీలకు బల౦. క్షమ గుణశీలికి బలం.
Hence befriending the wicked is not recommended. One who is submissive to senses will be destroyed by them. Good attributes, pleasing personality, soft spokenness, pure heart, optimistic outlook, pursuit of truth, moderation with senses will not be endearing to the wicked. Self realization, free from rage, patience, keeping one's word, giving alms, implementation of dharma will not appeal to the low lives. Fools rejoice by insulting scholars. A sinner blames other people. A noble person forgives one who is blaming him. Violence and cruelty are the strengths of the wicked. Penal code is the strength for the king. Service is the forte of women. Forgiveness is the power of the noble.
వాక్కును స్వాధీనంలో ఉంచుకోవడంకంటె కష్టమైనది లేదు. చమత్కారయుక్తులతో విశేషార్థాలను ప్రతిపాదించగల వాణి మితంగానే ఉంటుంది. మధు శబ్ధయుతమైన విషయం కళ్యాణప్రదమే అవుతుంది. అదే విషయం కటూక్తలతో నిండితే అనర్ధదాయక మవుతుంది. గొడ్డలి దెబ్బలు తిన్న అరణ్యం చిగిరంచవచ్చు. కాని కటువచనాలతో దెబ్బతిన్న హృదయం కోలుకోదు. శరీరంలో నాటిన తీవ్ర శరాలను పెరిక పారవేయవచ్చు. కాని పరుష భాషనాలుమాత్ర౦ గు౦డెలోనుండి పైకి తియ్య లేము. అందుచేతనే విద్వాంసులు కటువుగా భాషి౦చరు. దేవతలు ఎవని పరాజయం కోరుతారో వాని బుద్ధినే ముందుగా హరిస్తారు. ఆంతతో వాడు దుష్కర్మరతుడవుతాడు. వినాశకాలం సమీపించినపుడే బుద్ది నశిస్తుంది. అన్యాయం ప్రవేశిస్తుంది.
Nothing is as difficult as controlling the speech. The speech interspersed with skilful phrases and humor is limited. Sonorous speech with sweet sounding words is auspicious. The speech composed of harsh sounding words causes evil. A forest of trees felled by an axe can be replenished but not the heart hurt by harsh words. It is possible to remove arrows struck on the body, but not the harsh words striking the heart. That's why pundits don't speak harshly. When a person's downfall is desired, his intellect should be dulled thereby making him a wicked person. Before the downfall intellect will retreat and injustice will enter.
మహారాజా! నీ కొడుకులు పాండవులను విరోధ దృష్షితో చూస్తున్నారని మరచిపోకు. సర్వసద్గుణ సంపన్నుడైన ధర్మరాజు త్రిలోకాధీశుడు కాగలడు. థర్మార్థవిదుడూ తేజస్సంపన్నుడూ థీమంతుడూ భాగ్యశాలి అయిన ధర్మజుడు మీయందు గల గౌరవ భావంచేత ఎన్ని కష్టాలైనా సహించాడు. అది మరువకండి అన్నాడు విదురుడు.
Vidura said "King, don't forget that your sons are considering Pandavas as their enemies. The embodiment of good attributes, Dharma Raja, could become the ruler of the world. Being a follower of dharma, having great scholarship; possessing great aura and fortune Dharma Raja tolerated many setbacks out of his enormous respect for you. Please don't forget that".
ధీవిశాలుడైన విదురుడు ప్రసంగిస్తూంటే ధృతరాష్ట్రుని మనస్సు కొంతకొంత కలకదేరుతూంది. మరికొంత సేపు విదురుని ముఖాన నీతిశాస్త్రం వినా లని కుతూహలపడి దృతరాష్టుడర్ధించాడు. ధీశాలి విదురుడు ప్రసంగిస్తున్నాడు.
As the intellectual Vidra was discoursing, Dhrutarashtra's heart lightened. He wanted more of the discourse.
ప్రభూ! సర్వతీర్థస్నానమూ, భూతదయా సమానమైనవి. ఒక్కొక్కప్పుడు తీర్థస్నానంకంటె మృదువ్యవహారమే ఘనమై నది. అందుచేత మీరు మీ బిడ్డలైన దుర్యోధనాదులయందూ, ధర్మ రాజాదుల యందూ సమభావంతో సౌమ్యంగా వ్యవహరిస్తే మీ కీర్తిప్రతిష్టలు యినుమడిస్తాయి. మానవుని కీర్తి యీభూమండలంలో ఎంతవరకూ గానం చెయ్యబడుతూంటుందో అంతవరకూ స్వర్గంలో స్థిరనివాసం లభిస్తుంది. ఈవిషయమై సుధన్వ విరోచనులమధ్య జరిగిన సంవాదమొకటి వినిపిస్తాను.
"King, bathing at all the holy rivers is the same as being kind to all life forms. At times, soft spokenness is superior to a dip in a holy river. If you are equanimous with your sons and Pandavas, then your fame will spread all over the world. Accordingly your sojourn in heaven will last for ever. In this regard I will tell you about a conversation between Sudhanva and Virochana"
పూర్వకాలంలో కేశిని అనే పేరుగలసౌందర్య రాశి ఉండేది. ఆమె సర్వోత్తముడైన వ్యక్తిని భర్తగా వరించాలని స్వయంవరం ప్రకటించింది. ఆ స్వయం వరానికి కుతూహలంతో విరోచనుడు వచ్చాడు. అప్పుడామె వానితో “విప్రా! దైత్యులలో శ్రేష్ఠు డెవడు? విప్రుడే శ్రేష్ఠుడైతే భూసురుడైన సుధన్వుడు నా శయ్యను అలంకరించడానికి అర్హుడు కాడా”. అని ప్రశ్నించింది. విరోచనుడు సమాధాన మిస్తూ కేశినీ! ప్రజాపతి సంతానంలో మేము శ్రేష్ఠులము. మా ఎదుట దేవతలే అల్పులై నప్పుడు భూదేవతల విషయం చర్చకేరాదు అన్నాడు.
Once upon a time there was a beautiful woman called Kesini. She sought public choosing of a husband who would be an embodiment of great attributes. Virochana, the son of Prahlada and the king of asuras, arrived for the occasion. She said "Who is the best among the asuras? If a brahmin king is the best among all, isn't Sudhanva eligible to marry me?". Virochana said "Kesini, among prajapati's progeny we are the best. When suras are weak before us, is there anything to be said about the brahmin kings on the earth"
విరోచనా! అయితే మనమిక్కడ యిలానే ఉండి సుధన్వుడు వచ్చేవరకూ నిరీక్షిద్దాం. వాని ఆగమనానంతరం నిర్ణయించుకుందా౦- అంది కేశిని. రాత్రిగడిచింది. తెల్లవారింది.
Kesini said "Virochana, then we will wait here until Sudhanva arrives. We will decide after that".
కేశిని విరోచనులున్నచోటకు సుధన్వుడు వచ్చాడు. కేశిని లేచి నిలబడి అర్ఘ్య పాద్యాదులిచ్చి ఆసనం చూపింది. అప్పుడు సుధన్వుడు విరోచనుని వైపు తిరిగి ప్రహ్లాదనందనా! నేను యీ సుందర స్వర్ణ సింహాసనాన్ని మర్యాదగా స్పృశిస్తున్నాను; అంతే నేను దీనిపై కూర్చోను. ఈ ఆసనాన్ని నేను అలంకరించినట్లయితే నీతో సమానుడనే అవుతాను.
The next day Sudhanva came. Kesini got up and offered him a seat after due worship. Then Sudhanva turned to Virochana and said "The son of Prahlada, I am sitting on this ornate throne out of respect. But not as your equal"
అనగా విరోచనుడు.. ఓ బ్రాహ్మణుడా ! దర్భాసనమూ, దారుపీఠమూ యోగ్యమైనవికాని స్వర్ణ సింహాసనాలు నీ కర్హమెనవికావు- అన్నాడు.
Virochana retorted "Brahmin, you are suited to sit on dry grass and wooden seats but not the golden throne"
విరోచనా! తండ్రీకొడుకులు ఒకే ఆసనంమీద ఆసీనులు కావచ్చు. ఇద్దరు విపృలూ, ఇద్దరు క్షత్రి యులూ, ఇద్దరు వైశ్యులూ, శూద్రులూ, ఇద్దరు వృద్ధలూ, ఏకాసనాసీనులుకావచ్చు. అంతే. నీతండ్రియైన ప్రహ్లాదుడుకూడా నాకు ఉన్నతాసనమిచ్చి గౌరవంగా చూసాడు. నువ్వు పసివాడవు. సుకుమారంగా పెరుగుతున్న నీకు లౌకికజ్ఞానం పట్టలేదు. అని సుధన్వుడనగా విరోచనుడు- సుధన్వా! మా దైత్యనగరంలో ఉ౦డే ధనకాంచనాలనూ, గోవులనూ, ఆశ్వాలనూ పణంగా పెడుతున్నాను. మన యిద్దరిలో ఎవడు శ్రేష్ఠుడో నిర్ణయించుకుందాం - అనగా సుధన్వుడు - ప్రహ్లాదనందనా ! అవన్నీ ఆలానే వుంచు, మనము మన ప్రాణాలను ఒడ్డి ఈ విషయం నిర్ణయించుకుందాం. ఈ నిర్ణయం ఒక జ్ఞానివల్ల జరగాలి అన్నాడు, విరోచనుడందుకంగీకరిన్తూ బ్రాహ్మణా ! నేను దేవతలదగ్గరకు రాను. ఈ విషయమై మానవుల నిర్ణయం నాకు పొసగదు. అనగా సుధన్వుడు- ఓ దైత్యా! మనము నీతండ్రియైన ప్రహ్లాదుని దగ్గరకు పోయి ఈ విషయయమై నిర్ణయం చెయ్యమందాము. ప్రహ్లాదుడు ఏస్టితిలోనూ అబద్దమాడడని నా నమ్మకము- అన్నాడు.
"Virochana, a father and his son can sit together. Two brahmins, a couple of warriors, two traders, sudras, couple of old people can cohabit the same seat. Your father Prahlada offered me a superior throne and showed his respect. You are an adolescent. Growing in a cloistered environment you are unable to grasp the transactional world" said Sudhanva.
"Sudhanva, I am betting all the wealth, cows and horses in our asura country to decide who is the better suitor" said Virochana.
"Son of Prahlada, keep the trivialities aside. Let us bet our lives. The winner should be decided by a scholar" said Sudhanva.
Virochana acquiesced saying "Brahmin, I won't come to suras. Nor humans"
Sudhanva said, "Asura, let us ask your father Prahlaada. I believe he will never lie"
వారుభయులూ బయలుదేరి ప్రహ్లాదుని సమీపించారు. ఎన్నడూ కలియని విరోచన సుధన్వులు కుపితభుజంగాలవలె రావడం చూసి ప్రహ్లాదుడు నాయనా! సుధన్వునికీ నీకూ సఖ్యంకలిగిందా ? ఇదివరలో ఎన్నడూ కలిసి మెలసి తిరుగని మీరు ఈనాడు ఇలా రావడం ఆశ్చర్యంగా ఉంది అనగా విరోచనుడు సమాధాన మిస్తున్నాడు. మహారాజా! మా ఉభయులమధ్యా మైత్రి లేదు. ఒక విషయమై పోటీపడి ప్రాణాలుఒడ్డి నీదగ్గరకు వచ్చాము. ఇప్పుడు యదార్థంచెప్పండి అన్నాడు. ప్రహ్లాదుడు సేవకులను పిలిచి సుధన్వునుకి అర్ఘ్యపాద్యాలూ మధుపర్కాలూ తెప్పించి- అర్చించి బ్రాహ్మణోత్తమా! నీవు అతిథివి, నాకు పూజనీయుడవు. నీకు దానమివ్వడానికి తెల్లని ఆవులను సిద్ధంగా ఉంచాను. అనగా సుధన్వుడు ప్రహ్లాదా! నా కివన్నీ దారిలోనే లభించాయి, ఇప్పడు నువ్వు నా ప్రశ్నకు సమాధానమివ్వాలి. విపృ, దైత్యులలో శ్రేష్ఠుడెవడు ?- అని ప్రశ్నించాడు.
They both went to Prahlada. When he saw the mutually hating Virochana-Sudhanva together approach him like angry snakes, Prahalada said "Did you and Sudhanva patch up? I have never seen you together. I am surprised by your visit".
Virochana said "King, there is no friendship between us. We are competing for a prize and bet our lives. Please tell us the truth."
Prahlada said to Sudhanva "Brahmin, you are my guest worthy of worship. I have holy cows as alms to you"
Sudhanva said "Prahlada, I could get them on the way. Now you should answer my question: between brahmins and asuras, who is superior?"
భూసురోత్తమా! నాకు విరోచనుడొక్క డే కొడుకు, నువ్వు స్వయంగా ఇక్కడకు వచ్చి ఈ వివాదం నా ముందుంచితే నేనెలా నిర్ణయించగలను అని పుహ్లాదుడు ప్రశ్నించగా_ మహారాజా! నీ ధన ధాన్యసంపదలన్నీ నీ కుమారునకే ఇయ్యి, కాని ఈ వివాదంలోమాత్రం సత్య నిర్ణయం చెయ్యి- అని అడుగగా ప్రహ్లాదుడు- సుధన్వా! సత్యం భాషించకుండా అసత్యాన్ని పలికే వక్తికి కలిగే స్ధితి ఏమిటో నాకు చెప్పు_ అన్నాడు.
"Brahmin, Virochana is my only son. If you ask me about the best man, how can I answer it?" said Prahlada.
"King, you can give all of your wealth to your son. But you must decided on the best man" said Sudhanva.
సవతులుగల స్రీకి, ద్యూతంలో ఓడిన జూదరికీ, భారవాహకుడికీ రాత్రివేళల ఏస్థితి కలుగుతుందో అన్యాయ నిర్ణయాలు చేసేవారికి అదేస్థితి కలుగు తుంది. అసత్యనిర్ణయం చేసే రాజు బంధితుడై క్షుద్భాధ ననుభవిస్తూ శత్రువుల సంతోషం చూడవలసిన స ్థితిలో పడతాడు. గోవుకొరకు, పశువు కొరకు, అశ్వముకొరకు, మనుష్యునికొరకు అనృత మాడేవాడు (అబద్ధం చెప్పేవాడు) క్రమంగా ఐదు, పది, నూరు, వేయి తరాలవరకూ నరకంలో ఉంటాడు. స్వర్ణంకోస౦ అసత్యం పలికేవాడు భూతభవిష్యత్ఫలాలను కోల్పోతాడు. భూమికోనం స్త్రీ కోసం అనృతమాడే వాడు సర్వనాశనం చేసుకుంటాడు. అని సుధన్వుడు చెప్పగా ప్రహ్లాదుడు తన కుమారుని వైవు తిరిగి. నాయనా! సుధన్వుని తండ్రియైన అంగిరసుడు నాకంటె శ్రేష్ఠుడు. వీనితల్లి నీతల్లికంటె శ్రేష్ఠురాలు. అందుచేత నువ్వ సుధన్వునికంటె గొప్పవాడవు కాదు. ఇప్పుడు నువ్వు సుధన్వుని చేతులలో ఉన్నావు_ అని పలికి సుధన్వునివైవు తరిగి - బ్రాహ్మణ దేవతా! నువ్వనుగ్రహిస్తే నా కుమారుడు నాకు దక్కుతాడు- అన్నాడు.
"A man making an unjust decision will attain the same state at night as that of a woman sharing her husband with many women; a gambler losing his bet; a man carrying heavy loads all day. A lying king will be captured by the enemy and subjected to hunger by watching his enemy rejoice. A man lying for the sake of a cow, ox, horse and another man, will have the progeny suffer in hell for a long time. A man lying for gold will lose the fruits of past and future karma. One lying for land and a woman will be totally annihilated" said Sudhanva.
Prahlada turned to Virochana and said "Sudhanva's father Angirasa is better than me. His mother is superior to yours. Hence you are not more eminent than him. Now you are in the hands of Sudhanva".
Then Prahlada turned to Sudhanva and said "Brahmin, if you are considerate I will get my son back".
ప్రహ్లాదా! నువ్వు ధర్మాన్నిస్వీకరించి సత్యం భాషించావు. కనక నీకుమారుని నీ కిస్తున్నాను. కాని వీడు కేశిని సమక్షంలో నా కాళ్ళు కడగాలి అన్నాడు
"Prahlada, you accepted dharma and spoke the truth. So I am giving your son back. But he should wash my feet before Kesini" said Sudhanva.
అని విదురుడు ఆ గాధను ముగించి. మహారాజా! ఈ ఉపాఖ్యానం విన్నారుకదా ! అందుచేత మీరు మీ కుమారులకోసం స్వార్ధవశీభూతహృదయ౦తో అసత్యమాడకండి. అసత్యమాడి సర్వనాశనానికి దారి తియ్యకండి.
Thus ending the story Vidura said "King, like in the story narrated, you should not lie for the sake of your sons out of selfishness and for gaining an upper hand. Don't lie and cause total destruction"
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Prologue/పూర్వ పీఠిక (English/Telugu) 1000 Names/సహస్ర నామములు (English/Telugu) Epilogue/ఉత్తర పీఠిక (ఫ...
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Eknath Gita Book 1 అర్జున విషాద యోగము 1.1 1.2-1.11 1.12-1.14 1.15-1.19 1.20-1.29 1.30-1.32 1.33-1.41 1.42 1.43-1...
