13.060
The duties of the warrior.
Yudhiṣṭhira said.
Which among gift and sacrifice here yields the greatest result after death? Whose result is declared greater, than which kind of acts, how, and when? (13-60-1)
O Bhārata, I wish to know this in its true nature. O wise one, tell me the rules of giving, for I desire to understand them. (13-60-2)
O grandsire, please tell me, O dear one, what is the supreme good of what is given with faith and compassion on the central sacrificial altar. (13-60-3)
Bhīṣma said.
O dear one, terrible actions always belong to the kṣatriya; but for him, Vedic ritual actions and giving gifts here are truly purifying. (13-60-4)
But the virtuous do not accept gifts from wicked kings. For this reason, the king should perform sacrifices with gifts that have been rightly acquired. (13-60-5)
If they accept, then the king should give every day, with supreme faith; for this is indeed most purifying and excellent. (13-60-6)
He should satisfy the Brāhmaṇas with offerings; then, during the sacrifice, being self-restrained, (he should honor) friendly and virtuous persons who are learned in the Veda, endowed with good character, conduct, and austerity. (13-60-7)
Whatever is done for you by him, that will happen. Perform the sacrifices for the good people, offering delicious foods along with gifts. (13-60-8)
You should consider sacrifices and gifts as your own act through giving; you should also honor the priests, so that your share will indeed arise just as proper. (13-60-9)
You should support Brāhmaṇas who have many burdens and possess offspring; by doing so, one becomes (the cause of) progeny, just as a begetter does. (13-60-10)
All those men who perform virtuous duties and bear great burdens are to be supported.
O Yudhiṣṭhira, being prosperous, give to the Brāhmaṇas cows, bulls, food, an umbrella, garments, and sandals. (13-60-12)
O Bhārata, offerings of clarified butter were given to the sacrificers, as well as food and eatables; there were also horse-drawn vehicles, houses, and beds. (13-60-13)
O Bhārata, having recognized Brāhmaṇas who are not despicable, who are distressed for livelihood, and who have meager means or abundance, these should be given (gifts). (13-60-14)
Whether concealed or manifest, teach them by conduct. Regarding kṣatriyas, their highest good is through the Rājasūya and Aśvamedha (sacrifices). (13-60-15)
Thus, being freed from sins, you will become purified and attain heaven. After draining out the treasury, you will again protect the kingdom. (13-60-16)
Then, you will attain the state of Brahman and riches; protect the livelihood of yourself and of others, O Bhārata. (13-60-17)
O Bhārata, protect your servants and subjects just as you would a son. May acquisition and preservation always be with you among Brahmins. (13-60-18)
The subjects, having assembled, should pitilessly kill that royal wrongdoer who does not protect, who steals, who destroys, and who does not give (what is due). (13-60-19)
The king who, having said to you "I will protect," does not protect, he, even if afflicted with madness, should be slain collectively, even as early as tomorrow. (13-60-20)
O Bhārata, of whatever sins the unprotected subjects commit, the king obtains a fourth part. (13-60-21)
Indeed, some say "all only", and again, there is the decision that "half"; our fourth opinion, after hearing the instruction of Manu. (13-60-22)
O Bhārata, the king obtains a fourth part of the merit of whatever auspicious acts are performed by the subjects protected by him. (13-60-23)
May all creatures live by you who are living, O Yudhishthira, just as beings live by the rain-cloud and the twice-born by the great tree. (13-60-24)
May your relatives and friends live long after you, O afflicter of foes, just as the demons serve Kubera and the immortals serve Indra. (13-60-25)
