08.024
Library: Duryodhana narrates the story of Tripura from the Markandeya Purana, where the gods appointed the superior Lord Brahma as charioteer of Lord Shiva, to convince Shalya of the task ahead. He also narrates the story of sage Jamadagni and how Karna, who has received a divine weapon from Jamadagni, can't be inferior.
दुर्योधन उवाच॥
Duryodhana said:
भूय एव तु मद्रेश यत्ते वक्ष्यामि तच्छृणु। यथा पुरा वृत्तमिदं युद्धे देवासुरे विभो ॥८-२४-१॥
"O King of Madra, listen again to what I am about to tell you. It is about what happened in the ancient battle between the gods and demons, O mighty one."
यदुक्तवान्पितुर्मह्यं मार्कण्डेयो महानृषिः। तदशेषेण ब्रुवतो मम राजर्षिसत्तम ॥ त्वं निबोध न चाप्यत्र कर्तव्या ते विचारणा ॥८-२४-२॥
The great sage Mārkaṇḍeya conveyed to me what my father said, and you should understand it fully, O best of royal sages, without any need for further consideration here.
देवानामसुराणां च महानासीत्समागमः। बभूव प्रथमो राजन्सङ्ग्रामस्तारकामयः ॥ निर्जिताश्च तदा दैत्या दैवतैरिति नः श्रुतम् ॥८-२४-३॥
A great assembly of gods and demons took place. The first battle, O king, was for Tārakā. It is said that the demons were then defeated by the gods.
निर्जितेषु च दैत्येषु तारकस्य सुतास्त्रयः। ताराक्षः कमलाक्षश्च विद्युन्माली च पार्थिव ॥८-२४-४॥
Among the demons who were conquered, there were three sons of Tāraka: Tārākṣa, Kamalākṣa, and Vidyunmālī, who were kings.
तप उग्रं समास्थाय नियमे परमे स्थिताः। तपसा कर्शयामासुर्देहान्स्वाञ्शत्रुतापन ॥८-२४-५॥
The tormentors of enemies, having undertaken fierce austerity and situated in supreme discipline, emaciated their own bodies through their rigorous practices.
दमेन तपसा चैव नियमेन च पार्थिव। तेषां पितामहः प्रीतो वरदः प्रददौ वरान् ॥८-२४-६॥
O king, by self-control, austerity, and discipline, their grandfather, who was pleased, granted them boons as the giver of boons.
अवध्यत्वं च ते राजन्सर्वभूतेषु सर्वदा। सहिता वरयामासुः सर्वलोकपितामहम् ॥८-२४-७॥
O King, invincibility among all beings was always yours; together they chose the grandsire of all worlds.
तानब्रवीत्तदा देवो लोकानां प्रभुरीश्वरः। नास्ति सर्वामरत्वं हि निवर्तध्वमतोऽसुराः ॥ वरमन्यं वृणीध्वं वै यादृशं सम्प्ररोचते ॥८-२४-८॥
Then the god, the lord of the worlds, addressed the demons, telling them that there is no immortality for anyone. He advised them to turn back and choose another boon that they find pleasing.
ततस्ते सहिता राजन्सम्प्रधार्यासकृद्बहु। सर्वलोकेश्वरं वाक्यं प्रणम्यैनमथाब्रुवन् ॥८-२४-९॥
Then they, together, O king, after much consideration and repeatedly bowing to the lord of all worlds, addressed him with these words.
अस्माकं त्वं वरं देव प्रयच्छेमं पितामह। वयं पुराणि त्रीण्येव समास्थाय महीमिमाम् ॥ विचरिष्याम लोकेऽस्मिंस्त्वत्प्रसादपुरस्कृताः ॥८-२४-१०॥
"O god, grant us this boon, grandfather. We shall establish these three ancient ones and move on this earth, favored by your grace in this world."
ततो वर्षसहस्रे तु समेष्यामः परस्परम्। एकीभावं गमिष्यन्ति पुराण्येतानि चानघ ॥८-२४-११॥
Then, after a thousand years, we shall meet each other. These ancient texts, O sinless one, will come together in unity.
समागतानि चैतानि यो हन्याद्भगवंस्तदा। एकेषुणा देववरः स नो मृत्युर्भविष्यति ॥ एवमस्त्विति तान्देवः प्रत्युक्त्वा प्राविशद्दिवम् ॥८-२४-१२॥
The assembled beings, O Lord, if one were to slay them with a single arrow, O best of gods, he would become our death. Thus, having said so, the god returned to heaven.
ते तु लब्धवराः प्रीताः सम्प्रधार्य परस्परम्। पुरत्रयविसृष्ट्यर्थं मयं वव्रुर्महासुरम् ॥ विश्वकर्माणमजरं दैत्यदानवपूजितम् ॥८-२४-१३॥
Having received boons and being pleased, they discussed among themselves and chose the great demon Maya to destroy the three cities. The ageless Visvakarman, revered by the Daityas and Danavas, was involved.
ततो मयः स्वतपसा चक्रे धीमान्पुराणि ह। त्रीणि काञ्चनमेकं तु रौप्यं कार्ष्णायसं तथा ॥८-२४-१४॥
Then the wise Maya, through his own penance, created three ancient cities: one of gold, one of silver, and one of iron.
काञ्चनं दिवि तत्रासीदन्तरिक्षे च राजतम्। आयसं चाभवद्भूमौ चक्रस्थं पृथिवीपते ॥८-२४-१५॥
"Gold was present in the sky, silver in the atmosphere, and iron on the earth, O lord of the earth, within the wheel."
एकैकं योजनशतं विस्तारायामसंमितम्। गृहाट्टाट्टालकयुतं बृहत्प्राकारतोरणम् ॥८-२४-१६॥
Each structure was vast, measuring a hundred yojanas in both length and breadth, adorned with houses and attics, and featured large ramparts and gateways.
गुणप्रसवसम्बाधमसम्बाधमनामयम्। प्रासादैर्विविधैश्चैव द्वारैश्चाप्युपशोभितम् ॥८-२४-१७॥
The place was filled with qualities, yet unobstructed and free from disease, adorned with various palaces and gates.
पुरेषु चाभवन्राजन्राजानो वै पृथक्पृथक्। काञ्चनं तारकाक्षस्य चित्रमासीन्महात्मनः ॥ राजतं कमलाक्षस्य विद्युन्मालिन आयसम् ॥८-२४-१८॥
In the cities, O king, various kings emerged separately. The gold belonging to Tārakākṣa was remarkable, as he was a great soul. The silver belonging to Kamalākṣa, Vidyunmālin, was like iron.
त्रयस्ते दैत्यराजानस्त्रीँल्लोकानाशु तेजसा। आक्रम्य तस्थुर्वर्षाणां पूगान्नाम प्रजापतिः ॥८-२४-१९॥
The three demon kings, known as Prajapati, swiftly conquered the three worlds with their brilliance and stood firm for countless years.
तेषां दानवमुख्यानां प्रयुतान्यर्बुदानि च। कोट्यश्चाप्रतिवीराणां समाजग्मुस्ततस्ततः ॥ महदैश्वर्यमिच्छन्तस्त्रिपुरं दुर्गमाश्रिताः ॥८-२४-२०॥
The chiefs of the demons, numbering in tens and hundreds of millions, along with crores of unmatched heroes, gathered from various places, seeking great prosperity, and took refuge in the fort of Tripura.
सर्वेषां च पुनस्तेषां सर्वयोगवहो मयः। तमाश्रित्य हि ते सर्वे अवर्तन्ताकुतोभयाः ॥८-२४-२१॥
"Of all beings and again of them, illusion is the bearer of all unions. Having resorted to that, indeed, they all moved without fear."
यो हि यं मनसा कामं दध्यौ त्रिपुरसंश्रयः। तस्मै कामं मयस्तं तं विदधे मायया तदा ॥८-२४-२२॥
Tripurasaṃśraya, who meditated upon a desire with his mind, was granted that desire by Maya through illusion at that time.
तारकाक्षसुतश्चासीद्धरिर्नाम महाबलः। तपस्तेपे परमकं येनातुष्यत्पितामहः ॥८-२४-२३॥
Hari, the mighty son of Tāraka, performed such supreme penance that it pleased the grandfather.
स तुष्टमवृणोद्देवं वापी भवतु नः पुरे। शस्त्रैर्विनिहता यत्र क्षिप्ताः स्युर्बलवत्तराः ॥८-२४-२४॥
He chose the pleased god, or let it be in our city, where those who were killed by weapons may become stronger.
स तु लब्ध्वा वरं वीरस्तारकाक्षसुतो हरिः। ससृजे तत्र वापीं तां मृतानां जीवनीं प्रभो ॥८-२४-२५॥
Hari, the heroic son of Tārakākṣa, after receiving the boon, created a pond there that could revive the dead, O lord.
येन रूपेण दैत्यस्तु येन वेषेण चैव ह। मृतस्तस्यां परिक्षिप्तस्तादृशेनैव जज्ञिवान् ॥८-२४-२६॥
The demon, who was in a certain form and disguise, was certainly dead and surrounded in that manner, and was reborn in the same way.
तां प्राप्य त्रैपुरस्थास्तु सर्वाँल्लोकान्बबाधिरे। महता तपसा सिद्धाः सुराणां भयवर्धनाः ॥ न तेषामभवद्राजन्क्षयो युद्धे कथञ्चन ॥८-२४-२७॥
Upon obtaining her, the residents of Tripura, who were perfected beings, oppressed all the worlds with their great penance, increasing fear among the gods. O king, they faced no destruction in battle whatsoever.
ततस्ते लोभमोहाभ्यामभिभूता विचेतसः। निर्ह्रीकाः संस्थितिं सर्वे स्थापितां समलूलुपन् ॥८-२४-२८॥
Then, overwhelmed by greed and delusion, they lost their sense of right and wrong, shamelessly coveting the established position.
विद्राव्य सगणान्देवांस्तत्र तत्र तदा तदा। विचेरुः स्वेन कामेन वरदानेन दर्पिताः ॥८-२४-२९॥
"Having driven away the gods and their groups from place to place, they roamed as they pleased, emboldened by the boon they had received."
देवारण्यानि सर्वाणि प्रियाणि च दिवौकसाम्। ऋषीणामाश्रमान्पुण्यान्यूपाञ्जनपदांस्तथा ॥ व्यनाशयन्त मर्यादा दानवा दुष्टचारिणः ॥८-२४-३०॥
The wicked demons destroyed all the divine forests cherished by the celestial beings, the sacred hermitages of the sages, and the nearby settlements, along with their boundaries.
ते देवाः सहिताः सर्वे पितामहमरिंदम। अभिजग्मुस्तदाख्यातुं विप्रकारं सुरेतरैः ॥८-२४-३१॥
The gods, united, went to the grandsire, the subduer of enemies, to inform him of the insult caused by the non-divine beings.
ते तत्त्वं सर्वमाख्याय शिरसाभिप्रणम्य च। वधोपायमपृच्छन्त भगवन्तं पितामहम् ॥८-२४-३२॥
After narrating the entire truth, they bowed their heads and inquired from the venerable grandfather about the means to kill.
श्रुत्वा तद्भगवान्देवो देवानिदमुवाच ह। असुराश्च दुरात्मानस्ते चापि विबुधद्विषः ॥ अपराध्यन्ति सततं ये युष्मान्पीडयन्त्युत ॥८-२४-३३॥
Upon hearing this, the blessed Lord addressed the gods, saying: "The demons, who are wicked and adversaries of the wise, are constantly committing offenses and causing you distress."
अहं हि तुल्यः सर्वेषां भूतानां नात्र संशयः। अधार्मिकास्तु हन्तव्या इत्यहं प्रब्रवीमि वः ॥८-२४-३४॥
I am impartial to all beings; there is no doubt about it. However, I declare to you that the unrighteous must be punished.
ते यूयं स्थाणुमीशानं जिष्णुमक्लिष्टकारिणम्। योद्धारं वृणुतादित्याः स तान्हन्ता सुरेतरान् ॥८-२४-३५॥
"O Adityas, choose the steadfast and victorious lord who acts effortlessly as your warrior; he will destroy those who are not divine."
इति तस्य वचः श्रुत्वा देवाः शक्रपुरोगमाः। ब्रह्माणमग्रतः कृत्वा वृषाङ्कं शरणं ययुः ॥८-२४-३६॥
Upon hearing his words, the gods, with Indra at the forefront, approached Shiva, seeking refuge, with Brahma leading the way.
तपः परं समातस्थुर्गृणन्तो ब्रह्म शाश्वतम्। ऋषिभिः सह धर्मज्ञा भवं सर्वात्मना गताः ॥८-२४-३७॥
Engaged in supreme austerity and praising the eternal Absolute, they, along with the sages who were knowers of dharma, went with all their being.
तुष्टुवुर्वाग्भिरर्थ्याभिर्भयेष्वभयकृत्तमम्। सर्वात्मानं महात्मानं येनाप्तं सर्वमात्मना ॥८-२४-३८॥
They praised with meaningful words the greatest remover of fear, the soul of all, the great soul, by whom everything is attained through the self.
तपोविशेषैर्बहुभिर्योगं यो वेद चात्मनः। यः साङ्ख्यमात्मनो वेद यस्य चात्मा वशे सदा ॥८-२४-३९॥
One who, through many special austerities, knows both yoga and the self, and who understands the Sankhya philosophy, always has his self under control.
ते तं ददृशुरीशानं तेजोराशिमुमापतिम्। अनन्यसदृशं लोके व्रतवन्तमकल्मषम् ॥८-२४-४०॥
They beheld the lord, a radiant figure, the husband of Uma, unmatched in the world, who was steadfast in his vows and pure.
एकं च भगवन्तं ते नानारूपमकल्पयन्। आत्मनः प्रतिरूपाणि रूपाण्यथ महात्मनि ॥ परस्परस्य चापश्यन्सर्वे परमविस्मिताः ॥८-२४-४१॥
They envisioned the Lord as one entity with diverse forms, reflecting their own counterparts, and then in the great soul. Everyone saw each other and was utterly amazed.
सर्वभूतमयं चेशं तमजं जगतः पतिम्। देवा ब्रह्मर्षयश्चैव शिरोभिर्धरणीं गताः ॥८-२४-४२॥
The gods and sages, recognizing the lord who embodies all beings and is the unborn master of the universe, bowed down to the earth with their heads.
तान्स्वस्तिवाक्येनाभ्यर्च्य समुत्थाप्य च शङ्करः। ब्रूत ब्रूतेति भगवान्स्मयमानोऽभ्यभाषत ॥८-२४-४३॥
Shankara, after offering words of blessing and helping them rise, smilingly said, "Speak, speak," addressing them.
त्र्यम्बकेणाभ्यनुज्ञातास्ततस्तेऽस्वस्थचेतसः। नमो नमस्तेऽस्तु विभो तत इत्यब्रुवन्भवम् ॥८-२४-४४॥
After being permitted by Tryambaka, they, with disturbed minds, addressed Lord Shiva, saying, "Salutations, O Lord, let there be peace."
नमो देवातिदेवाय धन्विने चातिमन्यवे। प्रजापतिमखघ्नाय प्रजापतिभिरीड्यसे ॥८-२४-४५॥
Salutations to the supreme deity, the wielder of the bow, and the exceedingly proud one. You, who destroyed the sacrifice of Prajapati, are praised by the lords of creation.
नमः स्तुताय स्तुत्याय स्तूयमानाय मृत्यवे। विलोहिताय रुद्राय नीलग्रीवाय शूलिने ॥८-२४-४६॥
Salutations to Rudra, the praised and praiseworthy, the one being praised, the embodiment of death, the red one, the blue-necked trident-bearer.
अमोघाय मृगाक्षाय प्रवरायुधयोधिने। दुर्वारणाय शुक्राय ब्रह्मणे ब्रह्मचारिणे ॥८-२४-४७॥
To the unfailing, deer-eyed, foremost warrior with weapons, irresistible Śukra, the Brahman, and the celibate sage.
ईशानायाप्रमेयाय नियन्त्रे चर्मवाससे। तपोनित्याय पिङ्गाय व्रतिने कृत्तिवाससे ॥८-२४-४८॥
To the immeasurable lord, the controller, who wears skin, is eternally austere, tawny, vowed, and wears hides.
कुमारपित्रे त्र्यक्षाय प्रवरायुधधारिणे। प्रपन्नार्तिविनाशाय ब्रह्मद्विट्सङ्घघातिने ॥८-२४-४९॥
To Kumāra, the father and three-eyed deity, who bears excellent weapons, and destroys the distress of those who surrender, annihilating the enemies of Brahman.
वनस्पतीनां पतये नराणां पतये नमः। गवां च पतये नित्यं यज्ञानां पतये नमः ॥८-२४-५०॥
Salutations to the lord of trees, men, cows, and sacrifices, eternally.
नमोऽस्तु ते ससैन्याय त्र्यम्बकायोग्रतेजसे। मनोवाक्कर्मभिर्देव त्वां प्रपन्नान्भजस्व नः ॥८-२४-५१॥
Salutations to you, O three-eyed god with a fierce brilliance and an army. Protect us, who have surrendered to you, with our mind, speech, and actions.
ततः प्रसन्नो भगवान्स्वागतेनाभिनन्द्य तान्। प्रोवाच व्येतु वस्त्रासो ब्रूत किं करवाणि वः ॥८-२४-५२॥
Then, the pleased Lord welcomed them and said, "Do not be afraid. Tell me, what can I do for you?"
पितृदेवर्षिसङ्घेभ्यो वरे दत्ते महात्मना। सत्कृत्य शङ्करं प्राह ब्रह्मा लोकहितं वचः ॥८-२४-५३॥
Brahma, having honored Shankara, addressed the assembly of ancestors, gods, and sages, granting them a boon for the welfare of the world.
तवातिसर्गाद्देवेश प्राजापत्यमिदं पदम्। मयाधितिष्ठता दत्तो दानवेभ्यो महान्वरः ॥८-२४-५४॥
O Lord of the gods, from your great creation, this position related to Prajapati was granted by me as a significant boon to the Danavas.
तानतिक्रान्तमर्यादान्नान्यः संहर्तुमर्हति। त्वामृते भूतभव्येश त्वं ह्येषां प्रत्यरिर्वधे ॥८-२४-५५॥
"No one else can destroy those who have crossed their limits, except you, O lord of past and future, for you are indeed their enemy in destruction."
स त्वं देव प्रपन्नानां याचतां च दिवौकसाम्। कुरु प्रसादं देवेश दानवाञ्जहि शूलभृत् ॥८-२४-५६॥
O god, please show favor to those who have surrendered and those who are asking, O lord of the gods, destroy the demons, O wielder of the trident.
श्रीभगवानुवाच॥
The glorious Lord said:
हन्तव्याः शत्रवः सर्वे युष्माकमिति मे मतिः। न त्वेकोऽहं वधे तेषां समर्थो वै सुरद्विषाम् ॥८-२४-५७॥
It is my belief that all your enemies should be slain. However, I alone am not capable of defeating those foes of the gods.
ते यूयं सहिताः सर्वे मदीयेनास्त्रतेजसा। जयध्वं युधि ताञ्शत्रून्सङ्घातो हि महाबलः ॥८-२४-५८॥
"You all, united by the power of my weapon, should conquer those enemies in battle, for the group is truly mighty."
देवा ऊचुः॥
The gods spoke:
अस्मत्तेजोबलं यावत्तावद्द्विगुणमेव च। तेषामिति ह मन्यामो दृष्टतेजोबला हि ते ॥८-२४-५९॥
"Our power and strength are indeed twice as much as theirs," thus we think, for we have seen their power and strength.
भगवानुवाच॥
The Lord spoke:
वध्यास्ते सर्वतः पापा ये युष्मास्वपराधिनः। मम तेजोबलार्धेन सर्वांस्तान्घ्नत शात्रवान् ॥८-२४-६०॥
"Those who have sinned against you are to be killed wherever they are. Use half of my power and strength to destroy all those enemies."
देवा ऊचुः॥
The gods spoke:
बिभर्तुं तेजसोऽर्धं ते न शक्ष्यामो महेश्वर। सर्वेषां नो बलार्धेन त्वमेव जहि शात्रवान् ॥८-२४-६१॥
O great Lord, we cannot bear even half of your energy. You alone, with half of our strength, should destroy the enemies.
दुर्योधन उवाच॥
Duryodhana said:
ततस्तथेति देवेशस्तैरुक्तो राजसत्तम। अर्धमादाय सर्वेभ्यस्तेजसाभ्यधिकोऽभवत् ॥८-२४-६२॥
Then, O best of kings, the lord of the gods, addressed by them as 'so be it', took half and became superior in brilliance to all.
स तु देवो बलेनासीत्सर्वेभ्यो बलवत्तरः। महादेव इति ख्यातस्तदाप्रभृति शङ्करः ॥८-२४-६३॥
He was the strongest of all the gods by strength, and from that time, he became known as Mahadeva, Shankara.
ततोऽब्रवीन्महादेवो धनुर्बाणधरस्त्वहम्। हनिष्यामि रथेनाजौ तान्रिपून्वै दिवौकसः ॥८-२४-६४॥
Then Mahadeva declared, "I am the bearer of the bow and arrows. I shall defeat those enemies in battle with my chariot, O celestial beings."
ते यूयं मे रथं चैव धनुर्बाणं तथैव च। पश्यध्वं यावदद्यैतान्पातयामि महीतले ॥८-२४-६५॥
"You all, see my chariot, bow, and arrows; today, I will make these fall to the ground."
देवा ऊचुः॥
The gods spoke:
मूर्तिसर्वस्वमादाय त्रैलोक्यस्य ततस्ततः। रथं ते कल्पयिष्याम देवेश्वर महौजसम् ॥८-२४-६६॥
"O Lord of the gods, having gathered all forms from the three worlds, I shall then create your chariot, which will be of immense power."
तथैव बुद्ध्या विहितं विश्वकर्मकृतं शुभम्। ततो विबुधशार्दूलास्तं रथं समकल्पयन् ॥८-२४-६७॥
In the same manner, the wise ones, using their intellect, prepared the auspicious chariot crafted by Viśvakarman.
वन्धुरं पृथिवीं देवीं विशालपुरमालिनीम्। सपर्वतवनद्वीपां चक्रुर्भूतधरां तदा ॥८-२४-६८॥
At that time, they crafted the earth, a beautiful goddess adorned with vast cities, mountains, forests, and islands, serving as the supporter of all beings.
मन्दरं पर्वतं चाक्षं जङ्घास्तस्य महानदीः। दिशश्च प्रदिशश्चैव परिवारं रथस्य हि ॥८-२४-६९॥
The Mandara mountain serves as the axle of the chariot, with its wheels being the great rivers. The directions and sub-directions form the surroundings of the chariot.
अनुकर्षान्ग्रहान्दीप्तान्वरूथं चापि तारकाः। धर्मार्थकामसंयुक्तं त्रिवेणुं चापि बन्धुरम् ॥
The attractions of the shining planets and stars, along with the beautiful three flutes, are combined with dharma, artha, and kāma.
सूर्याचन्द्रमसौ कृत्वा चक्रे रथवरोत्तमे। पक्षौ पूर्वापरौ तत्र कृते रात्र्यहनी शुभे ॥८-२४-७१॥
He created the best of chariots by placing the sun and moon. There, the two sides, east and west, were established as the auspicious night and day.
दश नागपतीनीषां धृतराष्ट्रमुखान्दृढाम्। द्यां युगं युगचर्माणि संवर्तकबलाहकान् ॥८-२४-७२॥
The ten serpent queens, led by Dhritarashtra, stood firm, encompassing the sky, the ages, their ancient skins, and the clouds of dissolution.
शम्यां धृतिं च मेधां च स्थितिं संनतिमेव च। ग्रहनक्षत्रताराभिश्चर्म चित्रं नभस्तलम् ॥८-२४-७३॥
In the evening, there is steadiness, intelligence, position, and indeed humility; the sky, adorned with planets, stars, and constellations, appears wonderfully like a skin.
सुराम्बुप्रेतवित्तानां पतीँल्लोकेश्वरान्हयान्। सिनीवालीमनुमतिं कुहूं राकां च सुव्रताम् ॥ योक्त्राणि चक्रुर्वाहानां रोहकांश्चापि कण्ठकम् ॥८-२४-७४॥
The deities associated with liquor, water, spirits, wealth, and worldly domains, along with the goddesses Sinivali, Anumati, Kuhu, and the virtuous Raka, prepared the yokes, harnesses, and girths for the vehicles.
कर्म सत्यं तपोऽर्थश्च विहितास्तत्र रश्मयः। अधिष्ठानं मनस्त्वासीत्परिरथ्यं सरस्वती ॥८-२४-७५॥
Action, truth, austerity, and purpose were established there as rays. The mind was indeed the foundation, encircling Saraswati.
नानावर्णाश्च चित्राश्च पताकाः पवनेरिताः। विद्युदिन्द्रधनुर्नद्धं रथं दीप्तं व्यदीपयत् ॥८-२४-७६॥
The chariot, adorned with various colored and bright flags waving in the wind, and decorated with lightning and a rainbow, shone brilliantly.
एवं तस्मिन्महाराज कल्पिते रथसत्तमे। देवैर्मनुजशार्दूल द्विषतामभिमर्दने ॥८-२४-७७॥
Thus, O great king, in that best of chariots arranged by the gods, you, O tiger among men, crushed the enemies.
स्वान्यायुधानि मुख्यानि न्यदधाच्छङ्करो रथे। रथयष्टिं वियत्कृष्टां स्थापयामास गोवृषम् ॥८-२४-७८॥
Shankara placed his principal weapons on the chariot and set up the chariot's pole, which was drawn from the sky, with Nandi.
ब्रह्मदण्डः कालदण्डो रुद्रदण्डस्तथा ज्वरः। परिस्कन्दा रथस्यास्य सर्वतोदिशमुद्यताः ॥८-२४-७९॥
The divine powers and fever encircle this chariot from all directions, poised for action.
अथर्वाङ्गिरसावास्तां चक्ररक्षौ महात्मनः। ऋग्वेदः सामवेदश्च पुराणं च पुरःसराः ॥८-२४-८०॥
Atharva and Angiras, the great souls, were protectors of the wheel. The Rigveda, Samaveda, and Purana were at the forefront.
इतिहासयजुर्वेदौ पृष्ठरक्षौ बभूवतुः। दिव्या वाचश्च विद्याश्च परिपार्श्वचराः कृताः ॥८-२४-८१॥
History and the Yajurveda became the protectors of the back, while divine speech and knowledge were made their attendants.
तोत्त्रादयश्च राजेन्द्र वषट्कारस्तथैव च। ओङ्कारश्च मुखे राजन्नतिशोभाकरोऽभवत् ॥८-२४-८२॥
O King, the whip and other sounds, along with the sacrificial exclamation and the sacred syllable Om, became very splendid in the mouth.
विचित्रमृतुभिः षड्भिः कृत्वा संवत्सरं धनुः। तस्मान्नॄणां कालरात्रिर्ज्या कृता धनुषोऽजरा ॥८-२४-८३॥
The six varied seasons form a year, likened to a bow, and thus the night of time becomes the ageless string of the bow for men.
इषुश्चाप्यभवद्विष्णुर्ज्वलनः सोम एव च। अग्नीषोमौ जगत्कृत्स्नं वैष्णवं चोच्यते जगत् ॥८-२४-८४॥
The arrow transformed into Vishnu, fire, and the moon. Agni and Soma are considered to encompass the entire world associated with Vishnu.
विष्णुश्चात्मा भगवतो भवस्यामिततेजसः। तस्माद्धनुर्ज्यासंस्पर्शं न विषेहुर्हरस्य ते ॥८-२४-८५॥
Vishnu, being the soul of the divine and of Shiva who possesses immeasurable splendor, they could not endure the touch of Shiva's bowstring.
तस्मिञ्शरे तिग्ममन्युर्मुमोचाविषहं प्रभुः। भृग्वङ्गिरोमन्युभवं क्रोधाग्निमतिदुःसहम् ॥८-२४-८६॥
The lord released an unbearable and sharp anger in that arrow, a wrathful fire born from the anger of Bhrigu and Angiras, which was extremely difficult to endure.
स नीललोहितो धूम्रः कृत्तिवासा भयङ्करः। आदित्यायुतसङ्काशस्तेजोज्वालावृतो ज्वलन् ॥८-२४-८७॥
He is blue-red and smoky, wearing a hide and fearsome in appearance. He shines like ten thousand suns, enveloped in flames of energy, blazing intensely.
दुश्च्यावश्च्यावनो जेता हन्ता ब्रह्मद्विषां हरः। नित्यं त्राता च हन्ता च धर्माधर्माश्रिताञ्जनान् ॥८-२४-८८॥
Hara (Shiva) is the immovable mover, the conqueror and destroyer of those who hate Brahman. He is eternally the protector and destroyer of people who take refuge in both righteousness and unrighteousness.
प्रमाथिभिर्घोररूपैर्भीमोदग्रैर्गणैर्वृतः। विभाति भगवान्स्थाणुस्तैरेवात्मगुणैर्वृतः ॥८-२४-८९॥
The blessed Lord Śiva, surrounded by fierce and terrible beings, shines forth, enveloped by his own divine qualities.
तस्याङ्गानि समाश्रित्य स्थितं विश्वमिदं जगत्। जङ्गमाजङ्गमं राजञ्शुशुभेऽद्भुतदर्शनम् ॥८-२४-९०॥
O king, having resorted to his limbs, this entire universe, both moving and non-moving, appeared as a wonderful sight.
दृष्ट्वा तु तं रथं दिव्यं कवची स शरासनी। बाणमादत्त तं दिव्यं सोमविष्ण्वग्निसम्भवम् ॥८-२४-९१॥
Upon seeing the divine chariot, armored and equipped with a bow, he took up the divine arrow that was born from Soma, Vishnu, and Agni.
तस्य वाजांस्ततो देवाः कल्पयां चक्रिरे विभोः। पुण्यगन्धवहं राजञ्श्वसनं राजसत्तम ॥८-२४-९२॥
Then the gods arranged his horses, O lord, which carried an auspicious fragrance, O king, as the breath of the best of kings.
तमास्थाय महादेवस्त्रासयन्दैवतान्यपि। आरुरोह तदा यत्तः कम्पयन्निव रोदसी ॥८-२४-९३॥
Mahadeva, taking on that form and even instilling fear in the gods, ascended with great focus, as if causing the heavens and the earth to tremble.
स शोभमानो वरदः खड्गी बाणी शरासनी। हसन्निवाब्रवीद्देवो सारथिः को भविष्यति ॥८-२४-९४॥
The god, appearing radiant and as if smiling, equipped with a sword, arrows, and a bow, asked, "Who will be the charioteer?"
तमब्रुवन्देवगणा यं भवान्संनियोक्ष्यते। स भविष्यति देवेश सारथिस्ते न संशयः ॥८-२४-९५॥
The gods assured him, "The one you choose, O lord of the gods, will undoubtedly become your charioteer."
तानब्रवीत्पुनर्देवो मत्तः श्रेष्ठतरो हि यः। तं सारथिं कुरुध्वं मे स्वयं सञ्चिन्त्य माचिरम् ॥८-२४-९६॥
The god spoke to them again, saying: "Choose the one who is truly superior to me as my charioteer without delay, after careful consideration."
एतच्छ्रुत्वा ततो देवा वाक्यमुक्तं महात्मना। गत्वा पितामहं देवं प्रसाद्यैवं वचोऽब्रुवन् ॥८-२४-९७॥
Upon hearing this, the gods went to the grandsire god, pleased him, and then spoke these words.
देव त्वयेदं कथितं त्रिदशारिनिबर्हणम्। तथा च कृतमस्माभिः प्रसन्नो वृषभध्वजः ॥८-२४-९८॥
O god, you have told us about the destroyer of the enemies of the gods. Accordingly, we have acted, and the one with the bull banner is pleased.
रथश्च विहितोऽस्माभिर्विचित्रायुधसंवृतः। सारथिं तु न जानीमः कः स्यात्तस्मिन्रथोत्तमे ॥८-२४-९९॥
The chariot has been prepared by us and is covered with various weapons, but we do not know who the charioteer might be in that excellent chariot.
तस्माद्विधीयतां कश्चित्सारथिर्देवसत्तम। सफलां तां गिरं देव कर्तुमर्हसि नो विभो ॥८-२४-१००॥
Therefore, O best of the gods, appoint a charioteer. O god, you should fulfill that speech for us, O lord.
एवमस्मासु हि पुरा भगवन्नुक्तवानसि। हितं कर्तास्मि भवतामिति तत्कर्तुमर्हसि ॥८-२४-१०१॥
O Lord, you have previously assured us, "I will act for your benefit," so now you should fulfill that promise.
स देव युक्तो रथसत्तमो नो; दुरावरो द्रावणः शात्रवाणाम्। पिनाकपाणिर्विहितोऽत्र योद्धा; विभीषयन्दानवानुद्यतोऽसौ ॥८-२४-१०२॥
He, the divine charioteer, is unmatched and scatters the foes. The wielder of Pinaka is designated here as a warrior, instilling fear in the demons, he stands prepared.
तथैव वेदाश्चतुरो हयाग्र्या; धरा सशैला च रथो महात्मन्। नक्षत्रवंशोऽनुगतो वरूथे; यस्मिन्योद्धा सारथिनाभिरक्ष्यः ॥८-२४-१०३॥
In the same way, O great one, the four Vedas, the foremost horses, the earth with its mountains, and the chariot are present. The lineage of stars follows in the troop where the warrior is protected by the charioteer.
तत्र सारथिरेष्टव्यः सर्वैरेतैर्विशेषवान्। तत्प्रतिष्ठो रथो देव हया योद्धा तथैव च ॥ कवचानि च शस्त्राणि कार्मुकं च पितामह ॥८-२४-१०४॥
There, the charioteer should be chosen by all these distinguished ones. That chariot, O god, is well-established with horses, warriors, and indeed also equipped with armors, weapons, and a bow, O grandfather.
त्वामृते सारथिं तत्र नान्यं पश्यामहे वयम्। त्वं हि सर्वैर्गुणैर्युक्तो देवताभ्योऽधिकः प्रभो ॥ सारथ्ये तूर्णमारोह संयच्छ परमान्हयान् ॥८-२४-१०५॥
"O lord, we see no other charioteer there except you. You are indeed endowed with all qualities, superior even to the gods. Quickly ascend to the chariot and control the excellent horses."
इति ते शिरसा नत्वा त्रिलोकेशं पितामहम्। देवाः प्रसादयामासुः सारथ्यायेति नः श्रुतम् ॥८-२४-१०६॥
Thus, we have heard that the gods, having bowed their heads to the lord of the three worlds, the grandfather, appeased him for the role of charioteer.
ब्रह्मोवाच॥
Brahma said:
नात्र किञ्चिन्मृषा वाक्यं यदुक्तं वो दिवौकसः। संयच्छामि हयानेष युध्यतो वै कपर्दिनः ॥८-२४-१०७॥
"There is nothing false in what is said to you, O gods. I restrain the horses of Kapardin, who is indeed fighting."
ततः स भगवान्देवो लोकस्रष्टा पितामहः। सारथ्ये कल्पितो देवैरीशानस्य महात्मनः ॥८-२४-१०८॥
Then the blessed god, the creator of the world and grandfather, was appointed by the gods to be the charioteer of the great soul, Shiva.
तस्मिन्नारोहति क्षिप्रं स्यन्दनं लोकपूजिते। शिरोभिरगमंस्तूर्णं ते हया वातरंहसः ॥८-२४-१०९॥
He quickly ascended the revered chariot, and those horses, swift as the wind, approached swiftly with their heads bowed.
महेश्वरे त्वारुहति जानुभ्यामगमन्महीम्। अभीशून्हि त्रिलोकेशः सङ्गृह्य प्रपितामहः। तानश्वांश्चोदयामास मनोमारुतरंहसः ॥८-२४-१११॥
Lord Shiva ascended with his knees to the earth. The lord of the three worlds, having seized the enemies, urged the horses, which were as swift as the mind and wind.
ततोऽधिरूढे वरदे प्रयाते चासुरान्प्रति। साधु साध्विति विश्वेशः स्मयमानोऽभ्यभाषत ॥८-२४-११२॥
Then, as the boon-giver mounted and departed towards the demons, the lord of the universe smiled and said, "Well done, well done."
याहि देव यतो दैत्याश्चोदयाश्वानतन्द्रितः। पश्य बाह्वोर्बलं मेऽद्य निघ्नतः शात्रवान्रणे ॥८-२४-११३॥
"Go, O god, to where the demons are and urge the untiring horses. Witness today the strength of my arms as they slay the enemies in battle."
ततस्तांश्चोदयामास वायुवेगसमाञ्जवे। येन तत्त्रिपुरं राजन्दैत्यदानवरक्षितम् ॥८-२४-११४॥
Then he urged them, who were as swift as the wind, to attack Tripura, which was protected by demons and giants, O king.
अथाधिज्यं धनुः कृत्वा शर्वः सन्धाय तं शरम्। युक्त्वा पाशुपतास्त्रेण त्रिपुरं समचिन्तयत् ॥८-२४-११५॥
Then, Shiva strung his bow, fixed the arrow, empowered it with the Pashupata weapon, and contemplated the destruction of Tripura.
तस्मिन्स्थिते तदा राजन्क्रुद्धे विधृतकार्मुके। पुराणि तानि कालेन जग्मुरेकत्वतां तदा ॥८-२४-११६॥
In that state, O king, when you were angry and holding the bow, those ancient things eventually became one with time.
एकीभावं गते चैव त्रिपुरे समुपागते। बभूव तुमुलो हर्षो दैवतानां महात्मनाम् ॥८-२४-११७॥
When unity was achieved and Tripura was reached, the gods and the great souls experienced immense joy.
ततो देवगणाः सर्वे सिद्धाश्च परमर्षयः। जयेति वाचो मुमुचुः संस्तुवन्तो मुदान्विताः ॥८-२४-११८॥
Then all the hosts of gods, perfected beings, and great sages joyfully praised and uttered words of victory.
ततोऽग्रतः प्रादुरभूत्त्रिपुरं जघ्नुषोऽसुरान्। अनिर्देश्योग्रवपुषो देवस्यासह्यतेजसः ॥८-२४-११९॥
Then, in front of the god with unbearable brilliance and indescribable fierce form, appeared Tripura, the destroyer of demons.
स तद्विकृष्य भगवान्दिव्यं लोकेश्वरो धनुः। त्रैलोक्यसारं तमिषुं मुमोच त्रिपुरं प्रति ॥ तत्सासुरगणं दग्ध्वा प्राक्षिपत्पश्चिमार्णवे ॥८-२४-१२०॥
The blessed Lord, having drawn the divine bow, released the arrow, the essence of the three worlds, towards Tripura. After burning the host of demons, he cast it into the western ocean.
एवं तत्त्रिपुरं दग्धं दानवाश्चाप्यशेषतः। महेश्वरेण क्रुद्धेन त्रैलोक्यस्य हितैषिणा ॥८-२४-१२१॥
In this way, the city of Tripura was destroyed, and the demons were annihilated entirely by the wrathful Maheshvara, who seeks the welfare of the three worlds.
स चात्मक्रोधजो वह्निर्हाहेत्युक्त्वा निवारितः। मा कार्षीर्भस्मसाल्लोकानिति त्र्यक्षोऽब्रवीच्च तम् ॥८-२४-१२२॥
The fire born of his own anger was restrained when he exclaimed 'Alas!' The three-eyed deity, Shiva, advised him, 'Do not turn the worlds to ashes.'
ततः प्रकृतिमापन्ना देवा लोकास्तथर्षयः। तुष्टुवुर्वाग्भिरर्थ्याभिः स्थाणुमप्रतिमौजसम् ॥८-२४-१२३॥
Then, having returned to their natural state, the gods, worlds, and sages praised the steadfast one with eloquent and meaningful words, recognizing his unparalleled strength.
तेऽनुज्ञाता भगवता जग्मुः सर्वे यथागतम्। कृतकामाः प्रसन्नेन प्रजापतिमुखाः सुराः ॥८-२४-१२४॥
Permitted by the Lord, all the gods, headed by Prajapati, returned to their original places, having fulfilled their desires and being pleased.
यथैव भगवान्ब्रह्मा लोकधाता पितामहः। संयच्छ त्वं हयानस्य राधेयस्य महात्मनः ॥८-२४-१२५॥
"Just as the revered Brahma, the grandsire and supporter of the worlds, you must restrain the chariot of Radheya, the noble soul."
त्वं हि कृष्णाच्च कर्णाच्च फल्गुनाच्च विशेषतः। विशिष्टो राजशार्दूल नास्ति तत्र विचारणा ॥८-२४-१२६॥
"You are indeed more distinguished than Krishna, Karna, and Phalguna, especially, O tiger among kings. There is no doubt about it."
युद्धे ह्ययं रुद्रकल्पस्त्वं च ब्रह्मसमोऽनघ। तस्माच्छक्तौ युवां जेतुं मच्छत्रूंस्ताविवासुरान् ॥८-२४-१२७॥
In the battle, this one is indeed like Rudra, and you are akin to Brahma, O sinless one. Therefore, you both have the power to defeat my enemies just like those two demons.
यथा शल्याद्य कर्णोऽयं श्वेताश्वं कृष्णसारथिम्। प्रमथ्य हन्यात्कौन्तेयं तथा शीघ्रं विधीयताम् ॥८-२४-१२८॥
Karna, along with Śalya and others, should swiftly defeat and kill Arjuna, the white-horsed charioteer of Krishna. Let this be executed quickly.
त्वयि कर्णश्च राज्यं च वयं चैव प्रतिष्ठिताः ॥८-२४-१२८॥
In you, both Karna and the kingdom, as well as we, are firmly established.
इमं चाप्यपरं भूय इतिहासं निबोध मे। पितुर्मम सकाशे यं ब्राह्मणः प्राह धर्मवित् ॥८-२४-१२९॥
"Listen to another story that the Brahmin, who knows dharma, told in my father's presence."
श्रुत्वा चैतद्वचश्चित्रं हेतुकार्यार्थसंहितम्। कुरु शल्य विनिश्चित्य मा भूदत्र विचारणा ॥८-२४-१३०॥
Upon hearing this remarkable speech, which is composed of cause, effect, and meaning, O Shalya, make your decision and do not waver in consideration here.
भार्गवाणां कुले जातो जमदग्निर्महातपाः। तस्य रामेति विख्यातः पुत्रस्तेजोगुणान्वितः ॥८-२४-१३१॥
Jamadagni, born in the family of the Bhargavas, was a great ascetic. His son, known as Rama, was renowned for his brilliance and virtues.
स तीव्रं तप आस्थाय प्रसादयितवान्भवम्। अस्त्रहेतोः प्रसन्नात्मा नियतः संयतेन्द्रियः ॥८-२४-१३२॥
He undertook intense penance and pleased Lord Shiva to obtain weapons, maintaining a serene mind, discipline, and control over his senses.
तस्य तुष्टो महादेवो भक्त्या च प्रशमेन च। हृद्गतं चास्य विज्ञाय दर्शयामास शङ्करः ॥८-२४-१३३॥
Shankara, pleased by his devotion and tranquility, understood what was in his heart and revealed himself to him.
ईश्वर उवाच॥
The Lord spoke:
राम तुष्टोऽस्मि भद्रं ते विदितं मे तवेप्सितम्। कुरुष्व पूतमात्मानं सर्वमेतदवाप्स्यसि ॥८-२४-१३४॥
Rama, I am pleased with you. I know your desire. Purify yourself, and you will achieve all this.
दास्यामि ते तदास्त्राणि यदा पूतो भविष्यसि। अपात्रमसमर्थं च दहन्त्यस्त्राणि भार्गव ॥८-२४-१३५॥
"I will give you those weapons when you are purified. Weapons destroy those who are unworthy and incapable, O Bhārgava."
इत्युक्तो जामदग्न्यस्तु देवदेवेन शूलिना। प्रत्युवाच महात्मानं शिरसावनतः प्रभुम् ॥८-२४-१३६॥
Thus addressed by the god of gods, the trident-bearer, Jamadagni's son replied to the great soul, bowing his head to the lord.
यदा जानासि देवेश पात्रं मामस्त्रधारणे। तदा शुश्रूषतेऽस्त्राणि भवान्मे दातुमर्हति ॥८-२४-१३७॥
"O lord of the gods, when you recognize my worthiness in bearing weapons, then you should grant me the weapons as I am eager to learn."
दुर्योधन उवाच॥
Duryodhana said:
ततः स तपसा चैव दमेन नियमेन च। पूजोपहारबलिभिर्होममन्त्रपुरस्कृतैः ॥८-२४-१३८॥
Then he performed worship with austerity, self-control, and discipline, accompanied by offerings, oblations, sacrificial fire, and mantras.
आराधयितवाञ्शर्वं बहून्वर्षगणांस्तदा। प्रसन्नश्च महादेवो भार्गवस्य महात्मनः ॥८-२४-१३९॥
Bhargava, the great soul, worshipped Lord Shiva for many years, and then Lord Shiva was pleased with him.
अब्रवीत्तस्य बहुशो गुणान्देव्याः समीपतः। भक्तिमानेष सततं मयि रामो दृढव्रतः ॥८-२४-१४०॥
He frequently spoke of his virtues in the presence of the goddess, saying: 'This Rama is devoted and always steadfast in his vows to me.'
एवं तस्य गुणान्प्रीतो बहुशोऽकथयत्प्रभुः। देवतानां पितॄणां च समक्षमरिसूदनः ॥८-२४-१४१॥
Thus, the lord, pleased with his qualities, spoke many times in the presence of the gods and ancestors, O Arisudana.
एतस्मिन्नेव काले तु दैत्या आसन्महाबलाः। तैस्तदा दर्पमोहान्धैरबाध्यन्त दिवौकसः ॥८-२४-१४२॥
At that time, the demons, being very powerful, harassed the gods, blinded by their pride and delusion.
ततः सम्भूय विबुधास्तान्हन्तुं कृतनिश्चयाः। चक्रुः शत्रुवधे यत्नं न शेकुर्जेतुमेव ते ॥८-२४-१४३॥
Then, the wise ones gathered and decided to kill them, made efforts to slay the enemies, but they could not succeed in conquering them.
अभिगम्य ततो देवा महेश्वरमथाब्रुवन्। प्रसादयन्तस्तं भक्त्या जहि शत्रुगणानिति ॥८-२४-१४४॥
The gods, having approached Lord Shiva, said with devotion, "Please destroy the host of enemies."
प्रतिज्ञाय ततो देवो देवतानां रिपुक्षयम्। रामं भार्गवमाहूय सोऽभ्यभाषत शङ्करः ॥८-२४-१४५॥
After making a vow for the destruction of the enemies of the gods, Lord Shankara called upon Rama, the descendant of Bhrigu, and spoke to him.
रिपून्भार्गव देवानां जहि सर्वान्समागतान्। लोकानां हितकामार्थं मत्प्रीत्यर्थं तथैव च ॥८-२४-१४६॥
O Bhargava, destroy all the enemies gathered for the gods, for the welfare of the worlds and to please me.
राम उवाच॥
Rama said:
अकृतास्त्रस्य देवेश का शक्तिर्मे महेश्वर। निहन्तुं दानवान्सर्वान्कृतास्त्रान्युद्धदुर्मदान् ॥८-२४-१४७॥
O Lord of the gods, what power do I possess, O great Lord, to defeat all the demons who are skilled in weapons and arrogant in battle, while I am unskilled in weapons?
ईश्वर उवाच॥
The Lord spoke:
गच्छ त्वं मदनुध्यानान्निहनिष्यसि दानवान्। विजित्य च रिपून्सर्वान्गुणान्प्राप्स्यसि पुष्कलान् ॥८-२४-१४८॥
"Go, by meditating on me, you will destroy the demons. After conquering all your enemies, you will gain abundant virtues."
दुर्योधन उवाच॥
Duryodhana said:
एतच्छ्रुत्वा च वचनं प्रतिगृह्य च सर्वशः। रामः कृतस्वस्त्ययनः प्रययौ दानवान्प्रति ॥८-२४-१४९॥
Upon hearing and accepting the speech completely, Rama performed auspicious rites and set out towards the demons.
अवधीद्देवशत्रूंस्तान्मददर्पबलान्वितान्। वज्राशनिसमस्पर्शैः प्रहारैरेव भार्गवः ॥८-२४-१५०॥
Bhārgava, with attacks as powerful as a thunderbolt, killed those enemies of the gods who were filled with pride, arrogance, and strength.
स दानवैः क्षततनुर्जामदग्न्यो द्विजोत्तमः। संस्पृष्टः स्थाणुना सद्यो निर्व्रणः समजायत ॥८-२४-१५१॥
The son of Jamadagni, though wounded by the demons, was instantly healed by the touch of Shiva, becoming whole again.
प्रीतश्च भगवान्देवः कर्मणा तेन तस्य वै। वरान्प्रादाद्ब्रह्मविदे भार्गवाय महात्मने ॥८-२४-१५२॥
The Lord, pleased by his actions, granted boons to Bhārgava, the great soul and knower of Brahman.
उक्तश्च देवदेवेन प्रीतियुक्तेन शूलिना। निपातात्तव शस्त्राणां शरीरे याभवद्रुजा ॥८-२४-१५३॥
The god of gods, with affection, spoke to you, the trident-holder, about the pain that arose on your body from the fall of your weapons.
तया ते मानुषं कर्म व्यपोढं भृगुनन्दन। गृहाणास्त्राणि दिव्यानि मत्सकाशाद्यथेप्सितम् ॥८-२४-१५४॥
"By her, your human actions have been nullified, O son of Bhrigu. Accept the divine weapons from me as you wish."
ततोऽस्त्राणि समस्तानि वरांश्च मनसेप्सितान्। लब्ध्वा बहुविधान्रामः प्रणम्य शिरसा शिवम् ॥८-२४-१५५॥
Then Rama, having received all the various weapons and boons he desired in his mind, bowed his head to Shiva.
अनुज्ञां प्राप्य देवेशाज्जगाम स महातपाः। एवमेतत्पुरावृत्तं तदा कथितवानृषिः ॥८-२४-१५६॥
The great ascetic, having received permission from the lord of the gods, departed. Thus, the sage narrated what had happened in the past.
भार्गवोऽप्यददात्सर्वं धनुर्वेदं महात्मने। कर्णाय पुरुषव्याघ्र सुप्रीतेनान्तरात्मना ॥८-२४-१५७॥
Bhrigu's descendant, with great affection and from the depths of his soul, imparted the entire knowledge of archery to Karna, the great soul and tiger among men.
वृजिनं हि भवेत्किञ्चिद्यदि कर्णस्य पार्थिव। नास्मै ह्यस्त्राणि दिव्यानि प्रादास्यद्भृगुनन्दनः ॥८-२४-१५८॥
O king, if there were any sin in Karna, indeed, Bhrigu's descendant would not have bestowed upon him the divine weapons.
नापि सूतकुले जातं कर्णं मन्ये कथञ्चन। देवपुत्रमहं मन्ये क्षत्रियाणां कुलोद्भवम् ॥८-२४-१५९॥
I believe that Karṇa was not born in the charioteer's family; somehow, I think he is the son of a god, born into the Kshatriya lineage.
सकुण्डलं सकवचं दीर्घबाहुं महारथम्। कथमादित्यसदृशं मृगी व्याघ्रं जनिष्यति ॥८-२४-१६०॥
How can a doe give birth to a tiger who is adorned with earrings, armored, long-armed, and a great chariot-warrior, resembling the sun?
पश्य ह्यस्य भुजौ पीनौ नागराजकरोपमौ। वक्षः पश्य विशालं च सर्वशत्रुनिबर्हणम् ॥८-२४-१६१॥
"Behold his strong arms, resembling the hands of the king of serpents. Observe his broad chest, capable of vanquishing all foes."
