{"id":2345,"date":"2013-07-13T01:41:01","date_gmt":"2013-07-13T01:41:01","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/localhost\/?p=2345"},"modified":"2013-07-13T01:41:01","modified_gmt":"2013-07-13T01:41:01","slug":"05-sabha-parva-or-book-of-the-assembly-hall-vol-05-translations","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/01-works-of-sri-aurobindo\/03-cwsa\/05-translations\/05-sabha-parva-or-book-of-the-assembly-hall-vol-05-translations","title":{"rendered":"-05_Sabha Parva or Book of the Assembly Hall.html"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n\n\n
\n <\/td>\n\n

\n
\nSection Two<\/font><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nThe Mahabharata<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

 <\/p>\n

\n

\n
\nSabha Parva<\/font><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n
\nor Book of the Assembly-Hall<\/font><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nCANTO I<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n
\nThe Building of the Hall<\/a><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nAnd before Krishna’s face to great Urjuun<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nMaia with clasped hands bending; mild and boon<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHis voice as gratitude’s: “Me the strong ire<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHad slain of Krishna or the hungry fire<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nConsumed: by thee I live, O Kuuntie’s son:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWhat shall I do for thy sake?” And Urjuun,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n“Paid is thy debt. Go thou and prosper: love<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nRepays the lover: this our friendship prove.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n“Noble thy word and like thyself;” returned<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe Titan, “yet in me a fire has burned<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSome deed to do for love’s sake. He am I,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe Titan architect and poet high,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe maker: something give me to create.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nUrjuun replied, “If from the grasp of Fate<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nRescued by me thou pray’st, then is the deed<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSufficient, Titan: I will take no meed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nYet will I not deny thee: for my friend<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nDo somewhat and thy debt to me shall end.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThen by the Titan questioned Vaasudave<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nPondered a while what boon were best to have.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAt length he answered: “Let a hall be raised<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nPeerless, thou great artificer high-praised, \u2014<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nIf
\nthou wilt needs do somewhat high designed, \u2014<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFor Yudishthere such hall as may thy mind<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nImagine. Wonderful the pile shall be,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nNo mortal man shall copy although he<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 33<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\nLabour to grasp it, nor on transient earth<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnother equal wonder shall have birth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nVast let it be. Let human and divine<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd the Titanic meet in one design.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nJoyful the builder took the word and high<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe Pandove’s hall he made imperially.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBut first the heroes to the King repair,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nJust Yudishthere, and all their story there<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTell out: the Titan also they present,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTheir living proof of great accomplishment.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nNobly he welcomed was by that just King.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThere in high ease, befriended, sojourning<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe life of elder gods dethroned of old<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe Titan to the Pandove princes told.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nShort space for rest took the creative mind<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd inly planned and mightily designed<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nA hall imperial for those mighty ones.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWith Krishna then consulting and the sons<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf Pritha on a day of sacred light<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAll fate-appeasing ceremonies right<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe ordered and with rice in sugared milk<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSated the priests, silver and herds and silk.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nIn energy of genius next he chose<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTen thousand cubits, mapped a mighty close,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nRegion delightful where divinely sweet<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe joy of all the seasons seemed to meet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFour were the sides, ten thousand cubits all.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThis was the measure of the Pandove’s hall.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBut in the Khandav plain abode in ease<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nJunnardun mid the reverent ministries<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf the great five: their loves his home renew.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBut for his father’s sight a yearning grew<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd drew him thence. He of the monarch just<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd Pritha craved departure. In the dust<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHis head he lowered at her worshipped feet,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe for the whole world’s homage only meet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHim she embraced and kissed his head. Next he<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 34<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\nHis sister dear encountered lovingly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWet were his eyes as with low words and few<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nPregnant and happy, admirably true<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe greeted that divine fair girl and heard<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf her sweet eloquence many a tender word<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThat to her kin should travel; reverent<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nShe bowed her lovely head. And Krishna went<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo Draupadie and Dhaum and took of these<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nVarious farewell,
\n\u2014 soft words her heart to ease,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBut to the priest yielded the man divine<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nObeisance just and customary sign.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThereafter with Urjuun the hero wise<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHis brothers met and in celestial guise,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nLike Indra with the great immortals round,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAll rites that to safe journeying redound<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nPerforming, bath and pure ablution made<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd worship due with salutation paid,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nGarlanded, praying, in rich gems arrayed,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAll incenses that breathe beneath the sun<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo gods and Brahmans offered. These things done<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nDeparture now was next. Stately he came<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOutward and all of venerable name<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWho bore the sacred office, had delight<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf fruit and grain yet in the husk and white<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

 <\/p>\n

\nApproved curds, much wealth; and last the ground<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe trod and traced the gyre of blessing round.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSo with a fortunate day and fortunate star<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd moment in his chariot built for war,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nGolden, swift-rushing, with the Bird for sign<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd banner, sword and discus, bow divine<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd mace round hung, and horses twin of stride,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSugreve and Shaibya, went the lotus-eyed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd in his love the monarch Yudishthere<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nMounted, Daaruik, the great charioteer,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nPut quite aside. Himself he grasped the rein,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHimself he drove the chariot o’er the plain.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd great Urjuuna mounted, seized the white<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 35<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\nWind-bringer with the golden staff and bright<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd called with his strong arm the circling wind:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd Bhema and the princes twin behind<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFollowed, and citizen and holy priest:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWith the horizon the procession ceased.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAll these with the far-conquering Krishna wend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAs a high Sage whom his disciples tend,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSo for a league they journeyed; then no more<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe suffered but Yudishthere’s will o’erbore<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd forced return; then grappled to his breast<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nUrjuun beloved. Greeting well the rest<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nReligiously the monarch’s feet embraced<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nGovinda, but the Pandove raised and kissed<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe head of Krishna beautiful-eyed. “Go then”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe murmured; yet even so the word was vain<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nUntil reunion promised. Hardly at length<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe stayed them with entreaty’s utmost strength<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFrom following him on foot; so glad has gone<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nLike Indra thundering to the immortals’ town.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBut they stood following with the eyes their light<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nUntil he vanished from the paths of sight.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nEv’n then their hearts, though distance now conceals,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nRun yet behind his far invisible wheels.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBut the swift chariot takes their joy and pride,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nToo swift, alas! from eyes unsatisfied<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWith that dear vision, and reluctant, slow,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nIn thoughts that still with Krishna’s horsehooves go,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nCeasing at last to their own town again<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSilent they wend, the lion lords of men.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSo entered the immortal Yudishthere<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nGirt round with friends his glorious city; here<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe left them and in bowers for pleasure made<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWith Draupadie the godlike hero played.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBut Krishna, glad of soul, in whirling car<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nCame speeding to his noble town afar<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWith Daaruik and the hero Saatyakie. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSwift as the great God’s winged favourite he<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 36<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\nEntered, and all the Yadove lords renowned<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nCame honouring him, with one the chief and crowned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd Krishna stayed his father old to greet<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd Ahuik and his glorious mother’s feet<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd Bullaraam, his brother. His own sons<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe next embraced and all their little ones.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nLast of his elders leave he took and went<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo Rookminnie’s fair house in glad content.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nIn Dwarca he; but the great Titan Mai<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nStill pondered and imagined cunningly<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nA jewelled brightness in his thought begun,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAn audience-hall supreme for Hades’ son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSo with the conqueror unparalleled,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nUrjuun, the Titan now this discourse held.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n“To the great hill I go and soon return,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWhose northern peaks from Coilas upward burn.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThere when the Titans sacrifice of yore<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nIntended by the water Windusor,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nRich waste of fine material was left,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWondrous, of stone a variegated weft<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThat for the mighty audience-hall was stored<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf Vrishapurvun, the truth-speaking lord.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThither I wend and make, if yet endure<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAll that divine material bright and pure,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe Pandove’s hall, a glory to behold,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAdmirable, set with jewelry and gold<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTaking the heart to pleasure. These besides<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nA cruel mace in Windusor abides,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nMassive endurance, studded aureate,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nPonderous, a death of foes, commensurate<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWith many thousand more in murderous will.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThere after slaughter huge of foes it still<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nLies by a king relinquished. This believe<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFor Bheme created as for thee Gandeve.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThere too the mighty conch Varunian lies:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThunders God-given swell its Ocean voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nExpect these from my hand infallibly.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

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\n

\n

\nThus saying went the Titan hastily<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo the north-eastern edge of heaven where high<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSoars Mainaac hill into the northward sky<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFrom Coilas. Golden soar its ridges large<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd noble gems it stores and bright the marge<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf Windusor. The high conceiving Lord,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nKing of all creatures and by worlds adored,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHere grandiose offerings gave and sacrifice<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBy hundreds, and with excellent device,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFor beauty not to old tradition, made<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nPillars of sacrifice with gems inlaid<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd monumental temples massed with gold.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nLong here enduring Bhogiruth the bold<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThrough tedious seasons dwelt, yearning to see<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nGanges, his self-named river Bhaagirothie.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nNor these alone but he, the Argus-eyed<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nLord of imperial Sachi, to his side<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nVictory by sacrifice compelled. Creating<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWorld systems, energy irradiating<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe sits here whom the awful ghosts attend,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nShiva, who no beginning has nor end.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nNur and Naraian there and Brahma there<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd Hades and the Immoveable repair, \u2014<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nRevolving when a thousand ages wend,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo absolve with sacrifice the cycle’s end.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHere now ambitious of religion gave<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nLong years his mighty offerings Vaasudave,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nDevoutly, and bright temples raised their head,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nMemorial columns golden-garlanded,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nUnnumbered, multitudinous, immense.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThither went Maia and recovered thence<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nConch-shell and mace and for the audience-hall<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe old Titanic stone marmoreal.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAll mighty wealth the servile giants guard,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe Titan genius gathered and prepared<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHis famous hall unparalleled, divine,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWhere all the jewels of the world combine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

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\n

\n

\nTo Bheme he gave that mighty mace, the shell<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nGod-given called, whose cry unutterable<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWhen from the great conch’s ocean mouth ’tis hurled<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFar borne, trembling of creatures fills the world,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo great Urjuuna. But immense the hall<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTen thousand cubits spread its bulk and all<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nIts sides ten thousand, upon mighty boles<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nColumnar elevate: nor either rolls<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe sun through heaven, moon nor vast fire so bright.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSlaying the sunshine with superior light<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nIt blazed as if aflame, most luminous, white,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nCelestial, large, raised like a cloud to soar<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAgainst the heavens whose lustre it o’erbore.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nNor weariness nor sorrow enter might<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThat wide and noble palace of delight.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf fair material was it made, the walls<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd arches jewelled were of those rich halls.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSuch wonder of creative genius won<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe World’s Designer to comparison.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFor neither Brahma’s roof nor Vishnu’s high<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nMight equal this for glorious symmetry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nNo, not Sudhurma, Indra’s council hall,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWith Maia’s cunning strove. At Maia’s call<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nEight thousand Helots of the Giant blood<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nUpbore the pile and dreadful sentries stood<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTravellers on wind, huge-bodied, horrible,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nShell-eared, far-strikers, with bloodshot eyes and fell.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd in the middle a lotus-lake he made<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nUnparalleled, white lotuses displayed,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd birds innumerable and all the stems<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf that fair blossom were of beauteous gems<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd all the leaves were sapphires: through them rolled<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nGold tortoises and wondrous fish of gold.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nMarble mosaic was the stair: the wave<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTranslucent ran its edges fine to lave,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWrinkled with soft cool winds that over it sped.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nA rain of pearl drops on the floor was shed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 39<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\nAnd seats from slabs of precious stone combined<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe marble banks of that fair water lined.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd all around it ever-flowering trees<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf various race hung dark and huge with ease<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf cool delightful shade, sweet-smelling woods<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd quiet waters where the white swan broods<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd ducks and waders of the ripples. Sweet<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe wind came from them, fragrance in its feet<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe lotus gave and lily of the land,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd with its booty the great brothers fanned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFull fourteen months he laboured: the fifteenth<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSaw ready jewelled arch and luminous plinth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThen only came the Titan and declared<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo the just King his mighty hall prepared.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nCeremony of entrance Yudishthere<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThen held. Thousands of Brahmins luscious cheer<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf rice with sugared milk enjoyed wherein<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHoney was mingled; flesh besides they win<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf boar and stag and all roots eatable<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd fruits and sesamum-rice that tastes full well<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd grain of offering and pedary,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nYea, meats of many natures variously<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nEaten and chewed, of drinks a vast array;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd robes brought newly from the loom that day<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWere given, all possible garlands scented sweetly<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo Brahmins from all regions gathering, meetly<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nPresented, and to each a thousand cows.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nO then was air all thunder with their vows:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe din of blessing touched the very skies.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWith these the notes of instruments arise<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nVaried, celestial, and sweet fumes untold.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBefore the son of Hades mighty-souled<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWrestlers and mimes made show and those who play<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWith fencing staves and jongleurs. For that day<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe who installed the deities, worshipping,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWas greatest of the Kuurus and a king.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe by his brothers hemmed, high worship done,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 40<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\nWith saint and hero for companion,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nIn that his palace admirably bright,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nLike Indra in his heaven, took delight.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nCANTO II<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n
\nThe Debated Sacrifice<\/a><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\n*
\n*
\n*
\n*
\n*
\n*
\n*
\n*
\n*
\n* <\/span>But when Yudishthere had heard<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe sage’s speech, his heart was moved with sighs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe coveted Imperial Sacrifice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAll bliss went from him. Only to his thought<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe majesty of royal saints was brought<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBy sacrifice exalted, Paradise<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAcquired augustly, and before his eyes<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe most was luminous who in heaven shone,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHeaven by sacrificial merit won.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe too that offering would absolve; so now<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nReceiving reverence with a courteous brow,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe assembly broke, to meditate retiring<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOn that great sacrifice of his desiring.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFrequent the thought and ever all its length<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHis mind leaned that way. Yet though huge his strength,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHis heroism though admired, the King<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nForgot not Right, but pondered how this thing<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nMight touch the peoples, whether well or ill.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFor just was Yudishthere and courted still<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHis people and with vast, impartial mind<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nServed all, nor ever from this word declined,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n“To each his own; nor shall the King disturb<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWith wrath or violence Right, but these shall curb.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSo was all speech of men one grand acclaim;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe nation as a father trusted him:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nNo hater had he in his whole realm’s bound,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 41<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\nBy the sweet name of Enemiless renowned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd through his gracious government upheld<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBy Bhema’s force and foreign battle quelled<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBy the two-handed might of great Urjuun;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSahadave’s cultured equity and boon<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nNecoola’s courteous mood to all men shown,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe thriving provinces were void of fear;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nStrife was forgotten and each liberal year<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe rains were measured to desire; no man<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe natural limit of his course outran:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nUsury, tillage, rearing, merchandise<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThrove with good government and sacrifice<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nProspered; rack-renting was not nor unjust<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nExtortion; from the land was pestilence thrust,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd mad calamity of fire unknown<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBecame while this just monarch had his own.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nRobbers and cheats and royal favourites<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWere now not heard of to infringe men’s rights<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nNor the king’s harm nor mutual injury<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nIntrigue. To yield into his treasury<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTheir taxes traders came and princes high<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOn the sixfold pretexts of policy,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOr at Yudishthere’s court good grace to win.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nEven greedy, passionate, luxurious men<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHis just rule to the common welfare turned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe in the glory of all virtues burned,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAn
\nall-pervading man, by all adored, \u2014<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAn emperor and universal lord<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBearing upon his shoulders the whole State.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd from the neatherd to the twice-born great<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAll in his wide domains that lived and moved,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHim more than father, more than mother loved.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe now his brothers and his ministers<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSummoning severally their mind infers<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd often with repeated subtle speech<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSolicitous questions and re-questions each.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAll with one cry unanimous advise<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 42<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\nTo institute Imperial Sacrifice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n“O king,” they said, “the man by God designed<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWho has acquired the Oceanic mind<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf kingship, not with this bounds his pretence,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBut hungers for imperial excellence.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nIn thee it dwells, high Cow-rove; we thy friends<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSee clear that Fate this sacrifice intends.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo complete heroes it is subject. Men<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWho centre chivalry within them, gain<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nIts sanction when with ancient chants the fires<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAre heaped by sages, lords of their desires<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThrough self-control intense. The serpentine<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd all rites other in this one rite twine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd he who at its end is safely crowned<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nIs as World Conqueror, is as King renowned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nPuissance is thine, great-armed, and we are thine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nO King, soon then shall Empire crown thy line:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nO King, debate no longer; aim thy will<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAt Sacrifice Imperial.” So they still<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAdvised their King together and apart,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd deep their accents sunk into his heart.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBold was their speech, rang pleasant to his ear,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSeemed excellent and just, yet Yudishthere<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nStill pondered though he knew his puissance well.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAgain he bade his hardy brothers tell<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTheir mind and priests high-souled and ministers:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWith Dhaumya and Dwypaian too confers,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWise and deliberate he. “Speak justly, friends,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWhat happy way my hard desire attends.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHard is the sacrifice imperial meant<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFor an imperial mind’s accomplishment.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAll answered with a seasonable voice:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n“Just King, thine is that mind and thou the choice<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf Fate for this high ceremony renowned.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSweet did the voice of friends and flamens sound:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nYet still he curbed himself and still he thought.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHis yearning for the people’s welfare wrought<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 43<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\nA noble hesitation. Wise the man<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWho often will his power and vantage scan,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWho measures means with the expenditure,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSeason with place, then acts; his deeds endure.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n“Not with my mere resolve the enterprise<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBegins and ends of this great sacrifice.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWhile thus in a strong grasp his thought he held<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHis mind to Krishna who all beings excelled<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf mortal breed, for surest surety ran,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nKrishna, the strong unmeasurable man<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWhom Self-born upon earth conjectured he<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBecause his deeds measured with deity.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n“To Krishna’s mind all things are penetrable:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHis genius knows not the impossible”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nPondered the son of Hades “nor is there<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nA weight his mighty mind cannot upbear.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOn Krishna as on sage and guide his mind<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n(Who is indeed the guide of all mankind)<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe fixed and sent his messenger afar<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo Yadove land in a swift-rolling car.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThen sped the rushing wheels with small delay<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd reached the gated city Dwaraca,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe gated city where Junnardun dwelt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nKrishna to Yudishthere’s desire felt<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnswering desire and went with Indrosane<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nPassing through many lands to Indra-Plain,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFierily passing with impetuous hooves<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo Indraprustha and the men he loves.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWith filial soul his brothers Yudishthere<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd Bheme received the man without compeer:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBut Krishna to his father’s sister went<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd greeted her with joyous love; then bent<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHis heart to pleasure with his heart’s own friend,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAll reverently the courteous twins attend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBut after rest in those bright halls renowned<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nYudishthere sought the immortal man and found<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAt leisure sitting and revealed his need.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 44<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\n“King’s Sacrifice I covet, but indeed<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThou knowest not practicable by will alone<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nLike other rites is this imperial one,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBut he in whom all kingly things combine,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe whom all men, all lands to honour join,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nA king above all kings, he finds alone<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nEmpire. And now though all my friends are one<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo bid me forward, yet do I attend<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFrom thy voice only certainty, O friend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSome from affection lovingly suppress<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTheir friend’s worst fault and some from selfishness,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSpeaking what most will please. Others conceal<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTheir own good with the name of commonweal.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSuch counsel in his need a monarch hath.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBut thou art pure of selfish purpose; wrath<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd passion know thee not; and thou wilt tell<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWhat shall be solely and supremely well.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nKrishna made answer: “All thy virtues, all<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThy gifts make thee the man imperial.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThou dost deserve this Sacrifice. Yet well<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThough thou mayst know it, one thing will I tell.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWhen Raama, Jemadugny’s son, had slain<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe chivalry of earth, those who were fain<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo flee, left later issue to inherit<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe name of Kshettriya and the regal spirit.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf these the rule by compact of the clan<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nApproved thou knowest, and each highborn man<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWhate’er and all the kingly multitude<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nName themselves subjects of great Ila’s brood<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd the Ixvaacuu house. Now by increase<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe Ixvaacuu Kings and Ilian count no less<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThan are a hundred clans. Of all most huge<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nYayaaty of the Bhojas, a deluge<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nUpon the earth in multitude and gift.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo these all chivalry their eyes uplift,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThese and their mighty fortunes serve. But now<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nKing Jerasundha lifts his diademed brow<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 45<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\nAnd Ila and Ixvaacuu pale their fires,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nO’erwhelmed. He over kings and nations towers;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThis way and that way with impetuous hands<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAssailing overbears; the middle lands<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nInhabits and by division rules the world<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSince he in whose sole hand the earth is furled,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWho is first monarch and supreme, may claim,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe and he only, the imperial name.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd him the mighty hero Shishupaal<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOwns singly nor disdains his lord to call<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBut leads his warfare, and, of captains best,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe puissant man and subtle strategist,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nVuccar, the Koruush king, and those two famed<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nGrew to his side, Hunsa and Dimbhuc named,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBrave men and high of heart; and Corrusus,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nDuntvuccar, Meghovaahon, Corobhus,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nGreat kings; and the wide-ruler of the west,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe Yovun lord upon whose gleaming crest<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBurns the strange jewel wonderful, whose might<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nIs like the boundless Ocean’s infinite,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWhose rule Norac obeys and Muruland.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nKing Bhogadutt owns Jerasundh’s command,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThy father’s ancient friend, and more with hand<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nServes him than word. He only of the west<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd southern end of earth who is possessed,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe hero Kuuntiewurdhun Puurujit<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFeels for thee as a tender father might.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nChained by affection to thee is his heart<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd by affection in thy weal has part.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo Jerasundh he whom I did not slay<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nIs gathered, he who must forsooth display<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nMy signs, gives himself out god humanized<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd man ideal, and for such is prized<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nNow in the world, a madman soiled of soul,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

 <\/p>\n

\nThe tyrant of the Chedies, whose control<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nPoundra and Keerat own, a mighty lord,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nKing of Bengal and by the name adored<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 46<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\nOf Poundrian Vaasudave. The Bhoja strong<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo whom wide lands, one fourth of all, belong,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nCalled friend of Indra
\n\u2014 he made tameable<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nPandya and Cruth and Koyshic by his skill<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd science, and his brother Aacritie<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nIs very Purshuraam in prowess
\n\u2014 he,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nEven Bheeshmuc, even this high, far-conquering king<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo Jerasundh is vowed. We worshipping,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWe who implore his favour, we his kin<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAre utterly rejected, all our pain<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf benefaction met with sharp contempt,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBenefit with harm returned or evil attempt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe has forgot his birth, his pride, his name;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBlinded by Jerasundha’s burning fame<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo him is gone. To him high fortune yields;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nGreat nations leave their old ancestral fields.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe Bhojas of the North to western plain<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTheir eighteen clans transplanted, Surasegn,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nShalwa, Petucchur, Kuuntie, Bhudrocar,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSuisthull, Kulind, Sucuitta. All that are<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOf the Shalwaian Kings brother or friend,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAre with their leaders gone, nor yet an end:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe Southern Punchaals and in Kuuntie-land<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe Eastern Coshalas. Their native north<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAbandoning the Mutsyas have gone forth<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd from their fear take southern sanctuary:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWith them the clan Sunnyustopaad. Lastly<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe warrior great Punchaalas terrified<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHave left their kingdoms and to every side<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAre scattering before Jerasundha’s name.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOn us the universal tempest came,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWhen Kunsa furiously crushed of old<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe Yadoves: for to Kunsa bad and bold<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe son of Brihodruth his daughters gave<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBorn younger feminine to male Sahadave,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nUstie and Praapthie. In this tie made strong<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHis royal kin he overpowered; nor long,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 47<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\nBeing supreme, ruled prudently, but grew<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nA tyrant and a fool. Whereupon drew<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe Bhoja lords together, those whom tired<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHis cruelties, and these with me conspired<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSeeking a national deliverer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTherefore I rose and Ahuik’s daughter, her<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe sweet and slender, gave to Ocroor,
\n\u2014 then<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nMade free from tyranny my countrymen.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWith me was Raam, the plougher of the foe;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOur swords laid Kunsa and Sunaaman low.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nScarce was this inbred peril crossed and we<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSafe, Jerasundh arose. Then laid their plans<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBy vast majority the eighteen clans,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThat though we fought for ever, though we slew<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWith mighty blows infallible, o’erthrew<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFoe upon foe, three centuries might take wing<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nNor yet be slain the armies of the King.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFor him and his two men like gods made strong,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nUnslayable where the weapons thickest throng;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHunsa and Dimbhuc styled. These two uniting,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHeroes, and Jerasundh heroic fighting<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nMight battle with assembled worlds and win;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSuch was my thought, nor mine alone has been,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBut all the kings this counsel entertain,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nO wisest Yudishthere. Now there was slain<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBy Raam in eight days’ battle duelling<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nOne Hunsa truly named, a mighty King.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHunsa is slain!’ said one to Dimbhuc. Him<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHearing the Jumna’s waters overwhelm<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nDevoted. Without Hunsa here alone<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe had not heart to linger, so is gone<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHis way to death. Of Dimbhuc’s death when knew<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHunsa, sacker of cities, he too drew<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nTo the same waves that closed above his friend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThere were they joined in one o’erwhelming end.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThis hearing Jerasundha discontent<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWith empty heart to his own city went.
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

 <\/p>\n

\n

Page \u2013 48<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\nThe King being gone we in all joy again<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

In Mothura dwelt and our ancestral plain.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut she, the royal princess lotus-eyed,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Went to her father mourning; she, the pride<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf Jerasundh and Kunsa’s wife, and cried,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Spurring the mighty Maagudh, weeping: Kill<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy husband’s murderer, O my father,’ and still:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Kill him!’ But we minding the old thought planned<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith heavy hearts out from our native land,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Son, friend and kinsman, all in fear must flee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOur endless riches’ loose prolixity<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Unportable by division we compressed<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd with it fared sadly into the west.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The lovely city, fair Cuishusthaly,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith mountains beautiful, our colony<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

We made, the Ryevut mountains; and up-piled<\/span><\/p>\n

\nRamparts which even the gods in battle wild<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Could hardly scale, ramparts which women weak<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMight hold \u2014 of Vrishny’s swords what call to speak?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Five are the leagues our dwelling place extends,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThree are the mountain-shoulders and each ends<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

An equal space: hundred-gated the town.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nEach gate with heroism and renown<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Is bolted and has eighteen keys close-bound,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nEighteen strong bows in whom the trumpet’s sound<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Wakes headlong lust of war. Thousands as many<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOur race. Ahuik has hundred sons nor any<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nLess than a god. And Charudeshna, he<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

With his dear brother, hero Saatyakie,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nChucrodave, I, the son of Rohinnie,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

And Samba and Prodyoumna, seven are we,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSeven strong men; nor other seven more weak,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Cunca and Shuncou, Kuuntie and Someque,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnadhrishty, Somitinjoy, Critovurm;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Undhuc’s two sons besides and the old King: firm<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAs adamant they, heroes energical.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

These are the Vrishny men who lead there, all<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

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\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nRemembering the sweet middle lands we lost.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThere we behold that flood of danger crossed<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The Maagudh, Jerasundh, the mountain jaws<\/span><\/p>\n

\nImpassable behold. There free from cause<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Of fear, eastern or northern, Modhou’s sons<\/span><\/p>\n

\nDwell glad of safety. Lo, we the mighty ones,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Because King Kunsa married, to the west,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBy Jerasundha utterly distressed,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Are fled, and there on Ryevut, hill of kine,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFind sanctuary from danger Magadhine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Therefore though all imperial gifts and high<\/span><\/p>\n

\nVindicate thee, though o’er earth’s chivalry<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Thou shouldst be Emperor indeed, nowise<\/span><\/p>\n

\nShalt thou accomplish, King, the Sacrifice<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Great Jerasundha living; for he brings<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe princes of the earth and all her kings<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

And Girivraj with mighty prisoners fills<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAs in a cavern of the lordly hills,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

A lion's homestead, slaughtered elephants lie \u2014<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSo they a hecatomb of royalty<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Wait their dire ending; for Magadha’s King<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA sacrifice of princes purposing,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

With fierce asceticism of will adored<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMahadave mighty-minded, Uma’s lord.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Conquering he moves towards his purpose, brings<\/span><\/p>\n

\nArmy on army, kings on battling kings,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Victorious brings and binds and makes of men<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHis mountain-city a huge cattle-pen.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Us too his puissance drove in strange dismay<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo the fair-gated city, Dwaraca.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Therefore if of imperial sacrifice<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThou art ambitious, first, O prince, devise<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

To rescue all those murdered Kings and slay<\/span><\/p>\n

\nKing Jerasundha, since thus only may<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The instituted sacrifice attain<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIts great proportion and immenser plan.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

King, I have said; yet as thy deeper mind<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

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Page \u2013 50<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nAdviseth thee. Only when all’s designed,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAll reasons weighed, then give me word.” “O thou<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Art only wise,” Yudishthere cried. “Lo now<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA word no other heart might soar so high<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

As utter; yet thy brave sagacity<\/span><\/p>\n

\nPlainly hath phrased it; nor like thee on earth<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Another sword of counsel shall take birth.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBehold, the earth is full of kings; they still<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Each in his house do absolutely their will;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYet who attains to empire? Nay, the word<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Itself is danger. He who has preferred<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHis enemy’s greatness by sad study known,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

How shall he late forget and praise his own?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOnly who in his foemen’s shock not thrown<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Wins by ordeal praise, deserves the crown.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThis vast and plenteous earth, this mine of gems,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Is from a distance judged, how vast its realms,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNot from the dells. Nor otherwise, O pride<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Of Vrishny’s seed, man’s greatness is espied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIn calm and sweet content is highest bliss,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Mine be the good that springs from chastened peace.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI even with attempt hope not the crown<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Of high supremacy to wear. Renown<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGirds these and highborn mind; and so they deem<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

“Lo I or I am warrior and supreme”,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYet if by chance one better prove mid men,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

It is but chance who wins the crown and when.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut we by Jerasundha’s force alarmed<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

And all his mighty tyrannies iron-armed<\/span><\/p>\n

\nShun the emprise. O hero, O high-starred<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

In whose great prowess we have done and dared,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOn whose heroic arm our safeties dwell<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Yet lo thou fear’st him, deem’st invincible<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd where thou fearest, my conceit of strength<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Becomes a weakling’s dream until at length<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI hardly dare to hope by strongest men<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

This mighty Jerasundha can be slain,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 51<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nUrjuun or Bheme or Raama or combined. <\/span><\/p>\n

\nThou, Keshove, in all things to me art Mind.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Out Bhema spoke, the strong man eloquent.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n“The unstrenuous king, unhardy, unvigilant<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Sinks like an anthill; nor the weak-kneed less<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWho on a stronger leans his helplessness.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

But the unsleeping and resourceful man<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith wide and adequate attempt oft can<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

His mightier enemy vanquish: him though feeble<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHis wished-for good attends invariable.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Krishna has policy and I have strength<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd with our mother’s son, Dhonunjoy, length<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Assured of victory dwells; we shall assail<\/span><\/p>\n

\nVictoriously the Magadhan and quell<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

As triple fire a victim.” Krishna then:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n“Often we see that rash unthinking men<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Imprudent undertake, nor consequence<\/span><\/p>\n

\nEnvisage: yet will not his foe dispense<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Therefore the one-ideaed and headstrong man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNow since the virtuous ages first began<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Five emperors have been to history known,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMaroutta, Bharut, Yuvanuswa’s son,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Great Bhogiruth and Cartoverya old.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBy wealth Maroutta conquered, Bharut bold<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBy armed strength; Mandhata’s victories<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Enthroned him and his subtle soul and wise.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBy strenuous greatness Cartoverya bent<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The world; but Bhogiruth beneficent<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGathered the willing nations to his sway.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Thou purposing like greatness, to one way<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNot limited, restor’st the imperial five.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Their various masteries reunited live \u2014<\/span><\/p>\n

\nVirtue, high policy, wealth without dearth<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

And conquest and the rapid grasp at Earth \u2014<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd yet avail not to make solely great.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Strong Jerasundha bars thee from thy fate,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhom not the hundred nations can deter<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

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\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nBut with great might he grows an emperor;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe jewel-sceptred Kings to serve him start.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Yet he in his unripe and violent heart<\/span><\/p>\n

\nUnsatisfied, assumes the tyrant’s part.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

He, the first man of men, lays his rude hand<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOn the anointed monarchs of the land<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

And pillages. Not one we see exempt.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHow then shall feebler king his fall attempt?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Well-nigh a hundred in his sway are whelmed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith these like cattle cleansed, like cattle hemmed<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

In Sheva’s house, the dreadful Lord of beasts,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nPurified as for sacrificial feasts,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Surely life’s joy is turned to bitterness,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNot dying like heroes in the battle’s press.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Honour is his who in swift battle falls<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd best mid swords high death to princes calls.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

In battle let us ‘gainst the Maagudh thrust,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBy battle ignominy repel. To just<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Eighty and six the royal victims mount,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFourteen remain to fill the dire account;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Who being won his horrid violence<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNo farther pause will brook. Glory immense<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

He wins, glory most glorious who frustrates<\/span><\/p>\n

\nInterposing the tyrant and amates.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Kings shall acclaim him lord inevitably.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut Yudishthere made answer passionately:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

“Shall I, ambitious of imperial place,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nKrishna, expose in my mad selfishness,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Upbuoyed by naked daring, men to death<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhom most I love? O Krishna, what is breath<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

To one that’s mad and of his eyes bereft?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat joy has he that life to him is left?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

These are my eyes, thou Krishna art my mind:<\/span><\/p>\n

\nLo I have come as one who stumbles blind<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Upon the trackless Ocean’s spuming shore,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThen wakes, so I all confident before<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Upon this dreadful man whom even death<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

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\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nDare not in battle cross. What use is breath<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf hopeless effort? Mischief only can<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Result to the too blindly daring man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBetter not undertaken, is my mind<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

On riper thought, than fruitlessly designed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNay, let us leave this purpose; wiser so<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Than with eyes open to our death to go.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFor all my heart within is broken and slain<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Viewing the vast impracticable pain<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf Sacrifice Imperial.” Then replied<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

To Yudishthere great Partha in the pride<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf wonders self-attained, banner and car,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

And palace Titan-built and in the war<\/span><\/p>\n

\nQuiver made inexhaustible and great<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Unequalled bow. “O King” he said “since Fate<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHas given me bow and shafts, a sword like flame,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Great lands and strength, courage, allies and fame,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYea, such has given as men might covet long<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

And never win; O King, what more? For strong<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIs birth and conquers, cries the theorist<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Conversant in deep books; but to my taste<\/span><\/p>\n

\nCourage is strongest strength. How helps it then<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The uncourageous that heroic men<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHis fathers were? From uncourageous sires<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Who springs a hero, he to glory towers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThat man the name of Kshettriya merits best<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Whose soul is ever to the battle drest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nCourage, all gifts denied, ploughs through amain<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

A sea of foes: courage without in vain<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAll other gifts conspire; rather all gifts<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Courage into a double stature lifts.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut conquest is in three great strengths
\ncomplete \u2014<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Action, capacity, fate: where these three meet,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThere conquest comes; nor strengths alone suffice;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Men by neglect forfeit their Paradise.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd this the cause the strong much-hated man<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Before his enemies sinks. Hard ’tis to scan<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 54<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nWhether of these flaws strength most fatally,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA spirit poor or an o’erweening eye.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Both are destruction. Kings who highly aim<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd court success, must either quite disclaim.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

And if by Jerasundha’s overthrow,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nRescuing Kings, to Sacrifice we go,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

What fairer, what more glorious? Mighty prince,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nDeeds unattempted virtue maimed evince.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

In us when virtue dwells, why deem’st thou, brother,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA nothingness the children of thy mother?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Easy it is the ochre gown to take<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAfterwards, if for holy calmness’ sake<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

We must the hermit virtues imitate.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut here is Empire! here, a royal fate!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Let others quietism’s sweets embrace;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWe the loud battle seek, the foeman’s face.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

“In Kuuntie’s son and born of Bharut’s race<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat spirit should dwell, Urjuun’s great words express,”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Said Krishna. “And of death we have no light<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhether it comes by day or comes by night;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Nor this of mortal man was ever known<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThat one by going not to fight has grown<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Immortal. Let him then who’s man indeed<\/span><\/p>\n

\nClash forth against his foes, yet rule decreed<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Of policy forget not: so his mind<\/span><\/p>\n

\nShall live at poise. For when in battle combined<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Conduct meets long felicity, then high<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSuccess must come nor two met equally<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Equal can issue thence: from clash and strife<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf equals inequality takes life.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

But rash impolicy with helplessness<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHaving joined issue in their mutual stress<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Breed ruin huge; equality inglorious<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThen doubt engenders, nor are both victorious.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Therefore in skilful conduct putting trust<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIf with our foe we grapple, fell him we must<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

As a wild torrent wrestling with a tree<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

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Page \u2013 55<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nUproots and hurls it downward to the sea.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTrying the weak points in thine enemy’s mail,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Subtly thine own conceal, then prompt assail;’<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSo runs the politic maxim of the wise<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

And to my mind rings just. If we devise<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSecret, yet with no spot of treacherous blame,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

To penetrate our foeman’s house and limb<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGrapple with limb, oh, won infallibly then<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Our object is. Often one man of men<\/span><\/p>\n

\nPervades the nations like a soul, whose brow<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Glory eternal-seeming wears; so now<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThis lion lord of men; but yet I deem<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Shall that eternal vanish like a dream.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIn battle slaying him if at the last<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

By many swords we perish, so ’tis best.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWe shall by death the happy skies attain<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Saving from tyranny our countrymen.”<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\n
\nCANTO III<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe Slaying of Jerasundh<\/a><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nKrishna pursued. “Now is the call of Fate:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Fallen is Dimbhuc, fallen Hunsa great;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nKunsa is slain and all his host; the hour<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Is sighted when King Jerasundha’s power<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMust bow to death; yet not in violent war<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

‘Tis conquerable nor all the gods that are,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNor the embattled Titans overwhelm:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

In deadly duel we must vanquish him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nConduct is mine, strength Bheme’s, and in the field<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Who is very victory stands here to shield.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWe will consume the Maagudh, King, believe,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

As three strong fires a sacrifice achieve.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIf we three in a lonely place attain<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

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\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nTo see him, no doubt is, the King of men<\/span><\/p>\n

\nDuel with one of three will undertake,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

In pride and strength and greed of glory’s sake<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGrandiose of heart, duel with Bhema claim<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

But Bheme great-armed, Bheme strenuous for him<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSuffices, even as death that closes all<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Sufficient is for the immense world’s fall.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nKing, if my heart thou knowest and if trust<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Thou hast in me at all, then as a just<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd dear deposit in my hands implied<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Bheme and Urjuuna give.” And the King cried,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n“Achyuta, O Achyuta, never so,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

O hero, speak, O slayer of the foe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThou art the Pandoves’ lord, their refuge thou.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Govinda, all thou speakest I avow<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTruth merely; whom thou guidest are not men<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Fortune abandons. Nay, already slain<\/span><\/p>\n

\nKing Jerasundha is, rescued already<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Those Kings of earth, and won and greatly ready<\/span><\/p>\n

\nImperial Sacrifice, now that I stand,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

O first of men, in thy controlling hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nQuickly this work to accomplish, be it planned<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

But prudently; for without you no zest,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNo courage I have to live, as one distressed,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

One overcome with sickness, who lives on<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhen life no meaning has but pain alone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Without the child of Pandu Krishna is none,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNor possible without Krishna Pritha’s son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

By Krishna led unvanquishable are these.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSplendid in strength, strongest of strong men is,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Vricoder: joined and made a third with you,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFamous and noble, nought is he may not do.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWell led the armed multitudes effect<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Great deeds, but led must be by men elect.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBlind and inert mere strength is, all its force<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Impetuous but a block. As by that course<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhere dips the soil, there water’s led and whence<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 57<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nA gap most opens river-men lead thence<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWater, even such is guiding policy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Therefore, Govinda, in thy hand are we,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhom the world names its hero famousest<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

For conduct and in that great science best.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nKrishna whose strength is wisdom, counsel, who<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Is girded with resource, Krishna must you<\/span><\/p>\n

\nPut in your van with action’s every need:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

So only action’s purpose may succeed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nUrjuun by Krishna led, Bheme by Urjuun;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Then conduct, victory, strength, these three triune<\/span><\/p>\n

\nShall grow and conquer, making valour good.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

He said, and those three huge in hardihood,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe Vrishny hero and the Pandoves twain,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Went forth to Magadha of happy men.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo Girivraj, the city of the hills,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

A nation of the fourfold orders fills,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA prosperous race and glad, they travelled are,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Flushed with high festival and void of care,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA virgin city inviolable in war.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

So came they to the city gates where soared<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe height by Brihodrutha’s sons adored<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

And all the people, one of peaks that stand,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nDelightful hills, Chytyuc, in
\nMagadh land; \u2014<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Thither they storming came. There Rishabha,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe eater of forbidden flesh, to slay<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Came Brihodruth the King and slew and bound<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThree war-drums with its hide whose threatening sound<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Far borne through a whole month went echoing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThese in his city placed the Maagudh King.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Covered with dust of glorious blossoms there<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe drums hurled oft their thunders through the air.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

But now came storming to the Chytyuc wall<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe heroes and the war-drums broke and all<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Upon the rampart fell as if to smite<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe very head of Jerasundha’s might:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Chytyuc, the ancient peak enorm, deep-based,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 58<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nEver with flowers and fragrance worshipped, vast<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd famous, with Titanic force of arm<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Assailed and overthrew with loud alarm;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSo leaped exulting through no usual gate.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

To war with Jerasundh they came, and yet<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWeapons of war had none, with their arms merely<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Sworded and shielded with the vow austerely<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAssumed wherein men enter worldly life,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Snaatucs. A town they saw with riches rife,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFood-mart and flower-mart and populous street,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

In all desirable wealth grandly complete.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSo went they mid the shops and highroad wide<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

And from the garland-makers in the pride<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf hostile strength fresh garlands violently<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

They mastered. Then in bright variety<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf garments many-hued the mighty three<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

With wreaths and burnished earrings bright aflame<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo Jerasundha’s lordly dwelling came.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

As lions of the Himalaya eye<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA cattle-pen, so they the palace high.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

But on the Maagudh men amazement fell<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSeeing those shapes of heroes formidable,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Like elephants in strength, broad-breasted, wide<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd great of shoulder and like boles their arms<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Of shoal-trees mighty, fit for warlike harms;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNow sandal-smeared and rubbed with aloe-scent.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

They through the courts in courage arrogant<\/span><\/p>\n

\nPass sternly, through three crowded courts attain<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The royal presence freed from anxious pain.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd the great king arose, for them he judged<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Worthy of high guest-offerings, nowise grudged<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe water for the feet, the honied curds<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd gifts of kine, but with deserved words<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Greeted them crying “Welcome, holy men.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd no word answered him the Pandoves twain.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Then Krishna in their midst, the man of mind,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSaid only “King of kings, these two must bind<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 59<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nSilence till midnight hour, envisaging<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTheir vow. Then will they speak to thee, O King.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

So in the chamber sacrificial placed<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThey sojourned and the King with awe possessed<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Returned to his high mansion. But when night<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWas deep, went the strong arbiter of fight<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

To those three twice-born; for his vow preferred<\/span><\/p>\n

\nCompelled him, through earth famous, when he heard<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Of Snaatucs Brahmins in his city bright<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo meet them even in the deep midnight.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

And they indeed with strange astonishment<\/span><\/p>\n

\nDismayed him and their garments hue-besprent<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Unwonted. As he came the three arose,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe lion men, the victors of their foes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

“Welfare, O King” they cried, and each on each<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThey looked and scanned the King awaiting speech.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Then to those lords concealed in priestly dress<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe King said with his haughty graciousness,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

“Sit, holy men.” They sat, heroic forms<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBlazing with mightier beauty than informs<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The fires of sacrifice, when a great king<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSacrifices. And sternly censuring<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Disguise and travesty of shape sincere<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe conqueror steadfast, “Why come you here,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Not as the Snaatucs, in this transient world<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWho takes the household vow, the Brahmin. Curled<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Garlands he wears not, smears not sandal paste.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat names are yours who come in flowers dressed,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Upon your mighty arms the bowstring scored<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd wearing heroism like a sword,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Yet Brahminhood pretend? Speak truth, whence springs<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYour race? Truth is the ornament of kings.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Splitting the Chytyuc peak fiercely you came,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYet wear a vain disguise to hide a flame<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Yourselves reveal. Where no gate was, no path<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAllowed, you entered, nor a monarch’s wrath<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Calamitous feared; and are ye Brahmins? Bright<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 60<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nIn speech the Brahmin; speech his only might<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd prowess. You whose deeds your caste deny,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

What needing come you to my palace high?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd wherefore took you not the offering<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

To guests observed but scorned Magadha’s king?”<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThen Krishna in a deep and quiet voice<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Replied, adept in words of exquisite choice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n“Brahmins thou deemest us whom duties call<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Worldward, but Brahmin, Kshettriya, Vyshya, all<\/span><\/p>\n

\nEqual entitled are to Snaatuchood.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Vows personal, vows general, both are good.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut those the Kshettriya’s majesty prepare,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

To Kshettriyas those belong. Flowers if we wear,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWho decks his aspiration stern with flowers,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The majesty he wins outbraves the hours.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nRightly thou sayest, King, the Kshettriya’s might<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Speaks from his arm, in words has no delight,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWild words and many uses not; for God<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Set in the arm, its natural abode,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe Kshettriya prowess. Which if thou aspire<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

To see, surely we will not baulk desire;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nToday thou shalt behold it. Nor debate<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Of path allowable and door and gate.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNo gate is in the house of enemies.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

By the plain door a friend’s house entered is,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut by no door with ruin impetuous<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

A foeman’s. These are virtue’s gates and thus<\/span><\/p>\n

\nEnters the self-possessed, right-seeing man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Nor offering hospitable take we can<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIn foemen’s house with deeds upon our hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

This is our vow and this eternal stands.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd Jerasundh replied, “Enmity, strife<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

I can recall not gazing through my life,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBrahmins, with you begun, nor aught that men<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Pervert to hatred. Wherefore call you then<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA sinless man your enemy? The good<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

One practice keep, one rule well understood;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 61<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nAnd he, the Kshettriya who with causeless blame<\/span><\/p>\n

\nLightly has taxed the innocent, he with maim<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Virtue curtails inheriting remorse:<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBe he in virtue conversant, in force<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

A warrior among warriors, if he act<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOther than good, has with his own hand hacked<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

His own felicity here and there his soul<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFollowing the sinner’s way shall reach the sinner’s goal.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Throughout the triple universe confessed<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe Kshettriya virtue, Kshettriya life is best<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

For nobleness; for goodness. Other rule<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThey praise not who have learned in virtue’s school.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

That virtue and that life are mine. Steadfast<\/span><\/p>\n

\nToday I stand in them with spirit braced,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Sinless before my people. And ye prate<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMadness.” Krishna made sterner answer: “Great<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Is he who sent us, of a mighty strain<\/span><\/p>\n

\nUpbearer, and upon his shoulders lain<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The burden of a deed for kindred blood.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFrom him we come upon thee like a flood.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Sinless dost thou, O Jerasundha, claim<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd thou the world’s great princes dost o’erwhelm,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Gathered for cruel slaughter? When before<\/span><\/p>\n

\nDid kings on good kings tyranny explore?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

But thou, a king, hast conquered and subdued,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd Rudra’s altar thou wouldst have imbrued<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

With blood of Kings for victims. On our head<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTheir piteous blood shall lie which thy hands shed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

For we are virtue’s and in her have force<\/span><\/p>\n

\nVirtue to bulwark. Giving tyranny course<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

We share the sin. Not yet the world has seen<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThat crowning horror, butchery of men.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

O man, how couldst thou to a god devise,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo Shancara a human sacrifice?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

It is thy blood, thy kind thou levellest<\/span><\/p>\n

\nComparing human natures with the beast.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Is there a man in all the world whose mind<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 62<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nLike thine is violent, like thine is blind?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut this remember, not with the deed man does<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

There is an end; he reaps from what he sows<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd as he planted such the fruit he sees:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Footprints his action left, Fate treads in these.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTherefore ‘gainst thee, destroyer of our caste,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

We, champions of the miserable oppressed,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFor rescue of our kindred men are here<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

To slay thee. But thou sayest What should I fear?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThere is no man in all the Kshettriya race<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

And I am he alone.’ Great witlessness<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIs thine, O King, and error most unjust.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

What Kshettriya has a soul and lives but must<\/span><\/p>\n

\nRecall with pride his birth from valiant men?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Who would not by the way of battle then<\/span><\/p>\n

\nEnter the doors of Paradise eterne,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Felicitous gates? When paradise to earn<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHeroes to war as to a sacrifice<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Initiate go, resistless then they rise <\/span><\/p>\n

\nConquering Nature. Veda fathers heaven;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

To glory excellent its gates are given;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAusterity masters it. In battle who falls<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

He most infallibly wins the happy halls.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFor what is Indra’s heaven, what Paradise?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Heaven in noble deeds and virtue lies.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBy these the myriad-sacrificing god<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Conquered the Titans and the world bestrode.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd what more excellent way to heaven than strife<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

With thee? Nor thou by lustiness of life<\/span><\/p>\n

\nDeceived and thy huge armies Magadhine<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Maddening with strength thy foemen quite disdain.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIn many hearts a fire of courage dwells<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

That equals thine, nay, may be, far excels.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhile these are hidden in the hand of fate,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

So long thou art supreme, but so long great.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYes, I will speak it, we, even we, can bear<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The brunt of all thy greatness. King, forbear<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 63<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nPride with thy equals and vain insolence.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nO King, why wilt thou with thy son go hence,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

With all thy captains and great men below<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo Yama’s melancholy mansions go?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Were there not kings as great as thou? Who strove<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith Brihodruth, Cartoverya, Dumbhodbove,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

High Uttara? All they are sunk unmourned,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGreat kings and mighty captains; for they scorned<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Mightier than they. No Brahmins, learn, are we,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAntagonists of thy supremacy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nShourian I am and Hrishikesha styled;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

These are the Pandove heroes. Brother’s child<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI to their mother am \u2014 Krishna, thy foe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Take our defiance, King. In battle show<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThy steadfast courage, prince of Magadha,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Or while thou mayst escape. Either this day<\/span><\/p>\n

\nRelease the captive princes all or die.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Then answered Jerasundha puissantly:<\/span><\/p>\n

\n“Not without conquest I collect amain<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Princes; who is there penned my walls within<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd not in equal battle overthrown?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

This is the law and life to Kshettriyas known,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo battle and subdue and work their will<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Upon the conquered, Krishna. Owable<\/span><\/p>\n

\nUpon God’s altar I have gathered these;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

And shall I for ignoble fear release,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhile yet the Kshettriya blood beats in my veins,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

And yet one Kshettriya thought unquenched remains?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nArmy with battled army, single gage<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

With single or alone I will engage<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith two or three together or one by one.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

So spake the King and ordered that his son<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBe straight anointed for the kingdom’s needs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Himself must fight with men of dreadful deeds.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd in that hour King Jerasundha sighed<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Remembering great captains who had died,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nCowshic and Chitrosane, (but other names<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 64<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\nMen gave in converse with worldwide acclaims,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHunsa and Dimbhuc calling), them that night<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Recalled in shadow of the coming fight.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThen spake the Yadove pure and eloquent<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Seeing the monarch upon battle bent.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n“With which of three will thy heart battle dare,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

O King, or which of us shall now prepare<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFor battle?” Then that famous royal man,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The Maagudh Jerasundh, with Bhemosane<\/span><\/p>\n

\nChose battle. Wreaths, pigment of augury<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Bovine and all auspicious gramary,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMedicaments beside that lighten pain<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Or call the fugitive senses back again,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe high priest brought for Jerasundh and read<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The word of blessing o’er the monarch’s head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

 <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 65<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n<\/td>\n

\n <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

  Section Two   The Mahabharata   Sabha Parva or Book of the Assembly-Hall   CANTO I The Building of the Hall   And before…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[48],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2345","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-05-translations","wpcat-48-id"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2345","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2345"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2345\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2345"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2345"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2345"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}