13.071
Relating to the giving of cows.
Yudhishthira said.
The instructions about the gifting of cows were indeed explained to you, regarding the sage Naciketa. Also, O master, the greatness of cows was stated briefly. (13-71-1)
O grandsire, O greatly wise one, as suffering was experienced by the great-souled Nṛga from a single transgression due to ignorance. (13-71-2)
When he was being rescued in Dvāravatī, it was Kṛṣṇa who became the cause of liberation; I also considered that. (13-71-3)
But, O lord, I have a doubt regarding the world of cows; I wish to hear truly where the givers of cows actually go. (13-71-4)
Bhishma said.
Here too, they quote this ancient legend, as Śatakratu (Indra) once asked Padmayoni (Brahmā) this very matter. (13-71-5)
Indra said.
I see, as I depart, that the inhabitants of Goloka have surpassed, by their own splendor, the prosperity of those who dwell in the heavenly world; thus, a doubt arises here in me. (13-71-6)
O sinless one, tell me what kinds of worlds exist for those who give cows—it is these in which the donors reside that I wish to know. (13-71-7)
Of what kind are (they)? What are the fruits? What indeed is the highest quality there? How do men, free from affliction, go there? (13-71-8)
For how long does a giver enjoy the fruit of a gift? How can a gift become of many kinds, or even a small one—how? (13-71-9)
Of many people, what kind of gift is there? And of a few, what kind? How can there be givers of cows without actually giving? By what means does this happen? Tell me that. (13-71-10)
O master, how can one who gives much ever be equal to one who gives little? O Lord, in this world, how can the giver of little become like the giver of much? (13-71-11)
O revered one, you ought to tell me truthfully what kind of gift excels in the giving of a cow. (13-71-12)
