13.149
The question of Yudhiṣṭhira.
Yudhishthira said.
A person without fortune, even if very strong, does not obtain wealth. But one endowed with fortune, even if weak or a child, still obtains riches. (13-149-1)
When it is not the time for gain, even if effort is made, one does not obtain (results); but in the time for gain, one obtains abundant wealth even without effort. Indeed, men who have made effort but are fruitless are seen by the hundreds. (13-149-2)
O best of the Bharatas, if a mortal exerts himself, he may attain all results. There is nothing unattainable by men. (13-149-3)
When a man, although making every effort and following hundreds of correct strategies, is seen to be fruitless, and another, taking the wrong path, is happy, (13-149-4)
Men who have repeatedly committed improper acts are seen to be without wealth indeed. On the other hand, other people, though endowed with wealth, are seen living in unrighteousness. (13-149-5)
Even after having studied policy, we do not see one possessing policy. An ignorant person has been appointed to ministership; by what reason? Someone endowed with knowledge is impoverished, while the ignorant is wealthy. (13-149-6)
If a man obtains happiness by resorting to knowledge, the learned should not seek support for his livelihood from one who is bereft of knowledge by means of his learning. (13-149-7)
Just as a man, on obtaining water, conquers his thirst, so should a man, having perceived the truth, abandon ignorance by means of knowledge. (13-149-8)
One whose time has not come does not die, even if pierced by hundreds of arrows; but one whose time has come does not live, even if only touched by the tip of a blade of grass. (13-149-9)
Bhīṣma said.
If one's efforts do not attain wealth despite striving, one should undertake intense austerity; for indeed, that which is not sown does not sprout. (13-149-10)
Through charity, a person becomes one who enjoys; through service to elders, one becomes wise; and through non-violence, one attains a long life—so say the wise. (13-149-11)
Therefore, he should give and not ask; he should honor even the righteous. He should be one who speaks naturally, does what is pleasing, is pure, and does not harm any living being. (13-149-12)
Yudhishthira, when authority and your innate nature relate to pleasure and pain regarding flies, insects, and ants, be steadfast.
