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Library: Astika praises King Janamejaya is many wonderful words!
Āstīka said:
The sacrifices of Soma and Varuna, and the sacrifice of Prajapati took place at Prayaga. Similarly, this sacrifice of yours, O esteemed Bharata, O Parikshit, may it bring welfare to our beloved ones.
The sacrifice of Śakra is said to be a hundred in number, and similarly, another is equal in number, indeed a hundred. Thus, this sacrifice of yours, O best of the Bharatas, O Parīkṣit, may well-being be ours to the dear ones.
The sacrifices of Yama and Harimedhas were renowned, just as the sacrifice of King Rantideva. Similarly, this sacrifice of yours, O Parikshit, the best of the Bharatas, may it bring well-being to our dear ones.
The sacrifices of Gaya and King Śaśabindu, as well as that of King Vaiśravaṇa, are mentioned. Similarly, this sacrifice of yours, O esteemed Parīkṣit, may it bring well-being to us and our beloved ones.
The sacrifices of Nṛga and Ajamīḍha were as grand as those of King Daśaratha. Similarly, your sacrifice, O Parīkṣit, best of the Bharatas, is equally grand. May we and our dear ones be blessed with well-being.
The sacrifice performed by Yudhishthira, the son of Ajamīḍha, was heard in heaven, O son of the gods. Similarly, may this sacrifice of yours, O best of the Bharatas, O Parikshit, bring welfare to our dear ones.
The sacrifice performed by Krishna, the son of Satyavati, was where he himself took action. Thus, this sacrifice of yours, O esteemed Bharata, Parikshit, may bring welfare to our beloved ones.
These beings, radiant like the sun and fire, gather as the slayers of Vritra for the sacrifice. Their knowledge is not available today; it is given to those who will not let it perish in any way.
There is truly no one like a priest in all the worlds; this has been confirmed by Dvaipayana and myself. His disciples roam the earth, and all priests are adept in their respective duties.
The great soul, fire with bright rays, golden-seeded and all-consuming, traverses the dark path with a clockwise flame. This blazing god of fire desires your oblation.
In this world, there is no one like you, an equal king and protector of the people. With your determination and pleasing nature, I am always content; whether you are the king, Dharmaraja, or Yama.
Indra, the direct Vajra-holder, is the protector here in this world; you are similarly the protector of the people here. You are considered our lord of men in this world; there is no other householder than you in the sacrifice.
You are like Khatvanga, Nabhaga, and Dilipa; equal in influence to Yayati and Mandhata. Your brilliance is like that of Aditya; you shine like Bhishma, O virtuous one.
Your composed courage resembles that of Vālmīki; your controlled anger is akin to that of Vasiṣṭha. I consider your sovereignty to be on par with Indra, and your splendor shines like that of Nārāyaṇa.
Just as Yama is known for his judgment of dharma and Krishna is endowed with all virtues, you are the abode of prosperity like the Vasus and the repository of sacrifices.
You are as strong as Dambhodbhava; as skilled in weaponry as Rama. You possess the splendor of Aurva and Trita, and are as formidable as Bhagiratha.
Sūta said:
Upon being praised in this manner, everyone was pleased; the king, the assembly members, the priests, and the sacred fire. Observing their intentions and gestures, King Janamejaya then spoke.
