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Bhīṣma said.
Here too, an ancient story is cited, which was spoken by a wise king out of compassion for the people.
The king, observing the enclosure for cows at the sacrificial ground, saw the broken post, the bull, and heard the intense bellowing of the cows.
May there be well-being to the cows in all the worlds; thereafter, an explanation has been given. Indeed, when violence occurs, benedictions have been adapted accordingly.
Violence is proclaimed by unsteady, boundary-less, deluded, atheistic men, by those who are skeptical and unclear in mind.
Manu, whose nature is dharma, declared that non-violence is to be observed in all actions. However, driven by desire and passion, men harm animals outside on the altar.
Therefore, for one who understands, the duty to be performed according to authority is subtle. Among all duties, non-violence alone is regarded as the highest.
After fasting and becoming resolute, abandoning the Vedic scriptures, those who act improperly are called 'conduct'; those who are motivated by results are miserable.
If humans eat meat in vain, even after intending sacrifices, trees, and sacrificial posts, such a practice is not considered a praiseworthy duty.
Meat, honey, liquor, fish, spirituous liquor, and rice porridge were established by rogues; these are not prescribed in the Vedas.
This fickleness arises from desire, delusion, and greed. In all sacrifices, Brāhmaṇas recognize only Viṣṇu. His worship with milk preparations and flowers is also considered proper.
The trees suitable for sacrifice, as prescribed in the Vedas, and any other acts or things well-prepared by bulls—when performed by great souls with pure intentions—all of that is truly worthy of the gods.
Yudhiṣṭhira said.
Even the body and difficulties attack one who does not harm others; how will the journey of the body of one who makes no effort succeed?
Bhīṣma said.
Just as one should strive to keep the body from decay and not let it fall under the sway of death, so too should a capable person act in the world and uphold dharma.
