04.027
Vaiśampāyana said.
Then Bhīṣma, the son of Śāntanu, grandfather of the Bharatas, learned in all scriptures, knowing time and place, a knower of the essence, and knowledgeable in all dharmas, (spoke thus). (04-27-1)
After the teacher's words had ceased, he uttered that statement for their benefit; he spoke this discourse to the Bharatas. (4-27-2)
Bhīṣma there uttered words, honored by the virtuous, about that quality — which, attached to Yudhiṣṭhira, who knows dharma, rests in dharma, is always difficult to find among the unworthy, and always cherished by the virtuous. (04-27-3)
As this brāhmaṇa Drona, who knows the essence of all things, has said: 'The Pāṇḍavas, endowed with all auspicious marks, do not deserve to be destroyed.' (4-27-4)
They are endowed with learned conduct, possess good vows, are immersed in the instruction of elders, and are devoted to truthfulness in their vows. (04-27-5)
Those who know the proper time, are of pure vows and keep their observances, bearing the burden of the virtuous, are not fit to become despondent. (04-27-6)
The Pāṇḍavas, being protected both by righteousness and their own strength, will not meet destruction—this is the opinion I hold. (04-27-7)
O Bhārata, there I will devise a plan concerning the Pāṇḍavas. But the strategy of a wise person cannot be detected by others. (04-27-8)
But what can be done by us here, having thoroughly considered the Pāṇḍavas, that I will tell you with intelligence, not out of malice—understand this. (04-27-9)
She indeed must be properly spoken thus, and never should your conduct (be otherwise), O dear father, when remaining under the guidance of elders, being truthful in character. (04-27-10)
But here, one must certainly, with wisdom, express oneself among virtuous people, always and fully according to one's understanding, motivated by the desire for righteousness. (04-27-11)
There, I do not think in the same way as this other person does, either in the city or the country where king Yudhishthira lives. (04-27-12)
There, no one will be envious, jealous, boastful, or malicious; each person will steadfastly follow their own duty. (04-27-13)
The chants of the Veda will become more abundant, as will completed offerings; there will also be many more sacrifices, lavishly endowed with generous gifts to priests. (04-27-14)
There, rain will always fall properly without any doubt; and the earth, with abundant crops, will be free from calamity. (04-27-15)
Grains are juicy, fruits are virtuous, garlands are fragrant, and Bhāratī (goddess of speech) has auspicious words. (04-27-16)
Wherever the king Yudhishthira is, the wind is pleasant to the touch, the sight is undisturbed, and no fear enters there. (04-27-17)
There, the cows are abundant, neither emaciated nor difficult to milk; their milk, curds, and ghee are full of flavor and wholesome. (04-27-18)
There will be high-quality drinks and foods rich in flavor in that land where King Yudhishthira is present. (04-27-19)
Where king Yudhiṣṭhira is, tastes, touches, scents, and sounds endowed with qualities, and even the visible things, are all pleasant. (04-27-20)
O father, in that thirteenth year, in that country connected with the Pāṇḍavas, there will be those who are well-endowed with their own qualities. (04-27-21)
There, he is one who spreads affection, remains content, is pure and steadfast, and in the worship of gods and guests, he is full of love for all beings. (04-27-22)
Where king Yudhishthira rules, there will be people who give the desired gifts, are highly enthusiastic, always devoted to righteousness, hate evil, seek good, perpetually engage in sacrifice, and practice auspicious vows. (04-27-23)
O dear, wherever King Yudhiṣṭhira—who rejects false speech, is auspicious, desires what is good, and is pure-minded—will reign, the people there will always be engaged in good deeds and devoted to what is right. (04-27-24)
That virtuous-souled one then became invisible, O dear one, even to the twice-born; how then, O Pārtha, can he possibly be known thoroughly by ordinary men? (04-27-25)
In whom truth, steadfastness, generosity, supreme peace, unwavering forbearance, modesty, prosperity, fame, supreme brilliance, compassion, and honesty abide. (04-27-26)
Therefore, I am not able to disclose otherwise the hidden residence there, or the supreme path of that wise one, by means of the sacrificial session. (04-27-27)
But after thus reflecting, whatever you think is beneficial, do that at once, O Kaurava, since you have such faith in me. (04-27-28)
