13.150
Doubt regarding dharma;
Bhīṣma said.
Whatever is done or performed—whether true or false—having been done, from that, there one should take heart; having considered as true, but having considered as false, one should not trust. (13-150-1)
Here, time itself, giving restraint and favor by means of time, having entered the intellect of beings, acts in matters of duty and purpose. (13-150-2)
When, however, his discernment becomes righteous and reveals the true purpose, then the virtuous person should feel confident; but one with firm judgment should not trust blindly. (13-150-3)
This alone is the mark of the wise among beings. Adjusting one's actions according to time, one should fulfill the purpose while discerning between both. (13-150-4)
Just as men honor those men who possess wealth, in the same way, here, the righteous honor themselves by themselves. (13-150-5)
Time never grants righteousness by means of unrighteousness. Therefore, know the truly pure person as one who follows righteousness. (13-150-6)
Indeed, just as one is not able even to touch burning fire, so unrighteousness is never able to overcome righteousness, which is always protected by time. (13-150-7)
In these two matters, indeed, by the influence of time, dharma truly brings victory. Indeed, it serves to illuminate even the three worlds. (13-150-8)
There, some wise person may lead the man, having firmly taken him by the hand. As he is being taken, he (must proceed) with righteousness amidst the many dangerous deceits in the path of righteousness. (13-150-9)
