12.144
Bhīṣma said.
After the bird-catcher departed, the sorrowful female dove, recalling her husband, spoke while weeping and overcome with grief.
O beloved, I have never recalled anything unpleasant about you. Every widow, even if she has many sons or moves in the sky, is to be pitied by her relatives; a high-minded woman bereft of her husband becomes pitiable.
I have always been cherished by you, treated with respect, and comforted with words that are sweet, affectionate, and repeatedly most delightful.
My dear, I was enjoyed by you in the caves of the mountains, in the rivers and waterfalls, on the tops of trees, and in all delightful places.
In going to the sky, I have been happy with you, and I have enjoyed happiness with you, beloved; today, I have nothing left.
A father gives in measure, a mother gives in measure, a son gives in measure. But who would not honor the giver and supporter of the unlimited?"
There is no protector for a woman like her husband, nor is there happiness equal to that given by the husband. Even if she gives up all her wealth, the husband alone is truly the refuge for a woman.
O lord, there is no purpose for me to live here without you. Even a chaste woman, bereft of her husband, which woman would be able to live?
Thus, after lamenting in many ways with deep sorrow, the devoted wife, overwhelmed with grief, entered the blazing fire.
Then she saw her husband, adorned in variegated garments, seated in a celestial chariot, being worshipped by the virtuous and great-souled beings.
He was adorned with all ornaments, wearing variegated garlands and cloth, and was surrounded by hundreds of crores of celestial cars and by meritorious fame.
Then the bird, having reached heaven, was united with his wife, honored by his deeds, and enjoyed happiness there together with her.
