UNION 01.02
ऋषय ऊचुः॥
The sages said:
समन्तपञ्चकमिति यदुक्तं सूतनन्दन। एतत्सर्वं यथान्यायं श्रोतुमिच्छामहे वयम्॥ (BORI 1.2.1)
O son of the Sūta, as for this Samantapañcaka that was mentioned, we wish to hear all about it properly.
सूत उवाच॥
The Sūta said:
शुश्रूषा यदि वो विप्रा ब्रुवतश्च कथाः शुभाः। समन्तपञ्चकाख्यं च श्रोतुमर्हथ सत्तमाः॥ (BORI 1.2.2)
If you wish to listen, O Brahmins, you should hear the auspicious stories I tell and also about the place called Samantapancaka, O best among you.
त्रेताद्वापरयोः सन्धौ रामः शस्त्रभृतां वरः। असकृत्पार्थिवं क्षत्रं जघानामर्षचोदितः॥ (BORI 1.2.3)
At the juncture of the Tretā and Dvāpara ages, Rāma, the foremost among warriors, repeatedly slew the Kṣatriya royal line, driven by anger.
स सर्वं क्षत्रमुत्साद्य स्ववीर्येणानलद्युतिः। समन्तपञ्चके पञ्च चकार रुधिरह्रदान्॥ (BORI 1.2.4)
Having destroyed all the Kshatriyas by his own power, blazing like fire, he created five lakes of blood at Samantapanchaka.
स तेषु रुधिराम्भस्सु ह्रदेषु क्रोधमूर्च्छितः। पितृन्सन्तर्पयामास रुधिरेणेति नः श्रुतम्॥ (BORI 1.2.5)
He, overcome by rage, satisfied the ancestors with blood in those blood-filled lakes—so it is told to us.
अथर्चीकादयोऽभ्येत्य पितरो ब्राह्मणर्षभम्। राम राम महाभाग प्रीताः स्म तव भार्गव॥ (NIL 1.2.6; KUM 1.2.6)
Then Ṛcīka and the other ancestors, having approached the eminent Brāhmaṇa, said, "O Rāma, O highly fortunate one, O descendant of Bhṛgu, we are pleased with you."
अनया पितृभक्त्या च विक्रमेण तव प्रभो। वरं वृणीष्व भद्रं ते यमिच्छसि महाद्युते॥ (NIL 1.2.7; KUM 1.2.7)
By this devotion to your fathers and your prowess, O lord, choose a boon—good fortune to you—whichever you desire, O greatly illustrious one.
राम उवाच॥
Rāma said:
यदि मे पितरः प्रीता यद्यनुग्राह्यतामयि। यच्च रोषाभिभूतेन क्षत्रमुत्सादितं मया॥ (NIL 1.2.8; KUM 1.2.8)
If my ancestors are pleased with me, O revered one, if I am worthy of their grace, and considering that, in my wrath, I destroyed the Kshatriya race...
अतश्च पापान्मुच्येऽहमेष मे प्रार्थितो वरः। ह्रदाश्च तीर्थभूता मे भवेयुर्भुवि विश्रुताः॥ (NIL 1.2.9; KUM 1.2.9)
Therefore, may I be released from sin—this is the boon I have requested—and may the lakes become sacred places for me, famed on earth.
एवं भविष्यतीत्येवं पितरस्तमथाब्रुवन्। (NIL 1.2.10; KUM 1.2.10)
The ancestors then said to him, "So it will be."
तं क्षमस्वेति सिषिधुस्ततः स विरराम ह॥ (BORI 1.2.6)
They requested, 'Forgive him,' and then he indeed became calm.
तेषां समीपे यो देशो ह्रदानां रुधिराम्भसाम्। समन्तपञ्चकमिति पुण्यं तत्परिकीर्तितम्॥ (BORI 1.2.7)
Near them, the place of the lakes filled with blood as water is called Samantapañcaka, and that place is celebrated as sacred.
येन लिङ्गेन यो देशो युक्तः समुपलक्ष्यते। तेनैव नाम्ना तं देशं वाच्यमाहुर्मनीषिणः॥ (BORI 1.2.8)
Whatever place is identified by a particular characteristic, the wise say that such a place should be called by that very name.
अन्तरे चैव सम्प्राप्ते कलिद्वापरयोरभूत्। समन्तपञ्चके युद्धं कुरुपाण्डवसेनयोः॥ (BORI 1.2.9)
And indeed, when the interval between the Kali and Dvapara Yugas had arrived, there was a battle at Samantapancaka between the armies of the Kurus and the Pandavas.
तस्मिन्परमधर्मिष्ठे देशे भूदोषवर्जिते। अष्टादश समाजग्मुरक्षौहिण्यो युयुत्सया॥ (BORI 1.2.10)
Into that supremely righteous land, free from any natural faults, came eighteen divisions of armies, intent on battle.
समेत्य तं द्विजास्ताश्च तत्रैव निधं गताः। (NIL 1.2.15; KUM 1.2.15)
The twice-born gathered there and stayed right there.
एवं नामाभिनिर्वृत्तं तस्य देशस्य वै द्विजाः। पुण्यश्च रमणीयश्च स देशो वः प्रकीर्तितः॥ (BORI 1.2.11)
Thus, O twice-born, the name of that land has arisen; that land, which is both virtuous and beautiful, has been described to you.
तदेतत्कथितं सर्वं मया वो मुनिसत्तमाः। यथा देशः स विख्यातस्त्रिषु लोकेषु विश्रुतः॥ (BORI 1.2.12)
O best of sages, I have told you all this—how that land has become famous and celebrated in the three worlds.
ऋषय ऊचुः॥
The sages said:
अक्षौहिण्य इति प्रोक्तं यत्त्वया सूतनन्दन। एतदिच्छामहे श्रोतुं सर्वमेव यथातथम्॥ (BORI 1.2.13)
O son of Sūta, you mentioned the word 'akṣauhiṇī.' We wish to hear everything about it, exactly as it is.
अक्षौहिण्याः परीमाणं रथाश्वनरदन्तिनाम्। यथावच्चैव नो ब्रूहि सर्वं हि विदितं तव॥ (BORI 1.2.14)
Tell us in detail the extent of an akṣauhiṇī—the number of chariots, horses, men, and elephants—for all this is surely known to you.
सूत उवाच॥
The charioteer said:
एको रथो गजश्चैको नराः पञ्च पदातयः। त्रयश्च तुरगास्तज्ज्ञैः पत्तिरित्यभिधीयते॥ (BORI 1.2.15)
One chariot, one elephant, five foot soldiers, and three horses together, according to those knowledgeable, are called an infantry unit.
पत्तिं तु त्रिगुणामेतामाहुः सेनामुखं बुधाः। त्रीणि सेनामुखान्येको गुल्म इत्यभिधीयते॥ (BORI 1.2.16)
But the learned say that a Senāmukha is three times the size of a Patti; and three Senāmukhas are called a Gulma.
त्रयो गुल्मा गणो नाम वाहिनी तु गणास्त्रयः। स्मृतास्तिस्रस्तु वाहिन्यः पृतनेति विचक्षणैः॥ (BORI 1.2.17)
Three gulmas are called a gana, but a vahini is said to consist of three ganas; and three vahinis are considered a pr̥tanā by the learned.
चमूस्तु पृतनास्तिस्रस्तिस्रश्चम्वस्त्वनीकिनी। अनीकिनीं दशगुणां प्राहुरक्षौहिणीं बुधाः॥ (BORI 1.2.18)
But a chamū is composed of three pṛtanās, and three chamūs make one anīkinī; an akṣauhiṇī, the wise say, is ten times the size of an anīkinī.
अक्षौहिण्याः प्रसङ्ख्यानं रथानां द्विजसत्तमाः। सङ्ख्यागणिततत्त्वज्ञैः सहस्राण्येकविंशतिः॥ (BORI 1.2.19)
O best of twice-born, the reckoned number of chariots in an akṣauhiṇī, according to those who know the principles of calculation, is twenty-one thousand.
शतान्युपरि चैवाष्टौ तथा भूयश्च सप्ततिः। गजानां तु परीमाणमेतदेवात्र निर्दिशेत्॥ (BORI 1.2.20)
Eight hundred and seventy more—such indeed is the number of elephants that should be specified here.
ज्ञेयं शतसहस्रं तु सहस्राणि तथा नव। नराणामपि पञ्चाशच्छतानि त्रीणि चानघाः॥ (BORI 1.2.21)
One hundred thousand and nine thousand and nine—these should be known as well; and, O faultless ones, also three hundred and fifty hundreds of men.
पञ्चषष्टिसहस्राणि तथाश्वानां शतानि च। दशोत्तराणि षट्प्राहुर्यथावदिह सङ्ख्यया॥ (BORI 1.2.22)
Sixty-five thousand and one hundred and sixteen horses are said to be here by proper reckoning.
एतामक्षौहिणीं प्राहुः सङ्ख्यातत्त्वविदो जनाः। यां वः कथितवानस्मि विस्तरेण द्विजोत्तमाः॥ (BORI 1.2.23)
Those who know the true reckoning have called this an akshauhini—the one which I have described to you in detail, O best of the twice-born.
एतया सङ्ख्यया ह्यासन्कुरुपाण्डवसेनयोः। अक्षौहिण्यो द्विजश्रेष्ठाः पिण्डेनाष्टादशैव ताः॥ (BORI 1.2.24)
O best of Brāhmaṇas, by this reckoning, there were exactly eighteen akṣauhiṇīs in total in the armies of the Kauravas and the Pāṇḍavas.
समेतास्तत्र वै देशे तत्रैव निधनं गताः। कौरवान्कारणं कृत्वा कालेनाद्भुतकर्मणा॥ (BORI 1.2.25)
Having gathered there in that very region, they met their deaths there, making the Kauravas the cause, through the wondrous workings of time.
अहानि युयुधे भीष्मो दशैव परमास्त्रवित्। अहानि पञ्च द्रोणस्तु ररक्ष कुरुवाहिनीम्॥ (BORI 1.2.26)
Bhishma, the supreme master of weapons, fought for ten days, and Drona protected the Kuru army for five days.
अहनी युयुधे द्वे तु कर्णः परबलार्दनः। शल्योऽर्धदिवसं त्वासीद्गदायुद्धमतः परम्॥ (BORI 1.2.27)
Karna, the scourge of enemy armies, fought for two days, but Shalya fought for only half a day; after that was the mace battle.
तस्यैव तु दिनस्यान्ते हार्दिक्यद्रौणिगौतमाः। प्रसुप्तं निशि विश्वस्तं जघ्नुर्यौधिष्ठिरं बलम्॥ (BORI 1.2.28)
But at the end of that very day, Kritavarma, Ashvatthama, and Kripa killed Yudhishthira's army in the night while it was asleep and off guard.
यत्तु शौनकसत्रे ते भारताख्यानविस्तरम्। जनमेजयस्य तत्सत्रे व्यासशिष्येण धीमता॥ (NIL 1.2.33; KUM 1.2.33)
But what you asked about—the detailed narration of the Bhārata at the Śaunaka sacrifice, as recounted at the Janamejaya sacrifice by Vyāsa's wise disciple—
कथितं विस्तरार्थं च यशो वीर्यं महीक्षिताम्। (NIL 1.2.34; KUM 1.2.34)
And in detail were recounted the glory and valor of kings.
आख्यास्ये तत्र पौलोममाख्यानं चादितः परम्॥ (BORI 1.2.29)
There, I will relate the narrative of Puloma's descendant from the very beginning onward.
विचित्रार्थपदाख्यानमनेकसमयान्वितम्। अभिपन्नं नरैः प्राज्ञैर्वैराग्यमिव मोक्षिभिः॥ (BORI 1.2.30)
A narrative with a variety of meanings and expressions, possessing many nuances, understood by wise men just as dispassion is by those who seek liberation.
आत्मेव वेदितव्येषु प्रियेष्विव च जीवितम्। इतिहासः प्रधानार्थः श्रेष्ठः सर्वागमेष्वयम्॥ (BORI 1.2.31)
Just as oneself is foremost among things to be known, and life among things dear, so this epic is of foremost importance and is the best among all authoritative texts.
तदेतद्भारतं नाम कविभिस्तूपजीव्यते। (NIL 1.2.38; KUM 1.2.38)
Therefore, this work called the Bhārata is indeed made a livelihood by poets.
इतिहासोत्तमे ह्यस्मिन्नर्पिता बुद्धिरुत्तमा। स्वरव्यञ्जनयोः कृत्स्ना लोकवेदाश्रयेव वाक्॥ (BORI 1.2.32)
Indeed, in this excellent history, the finest intellect has been devoted, and, like speech that draws fully upon vowels and consonants and rests on worldly and Vedic authority.
अस्य प्रज्ञाभिपन्नस्य विचित्रपदपर्वणः। सूक्ष्मार्थन्याययुक्तस्य वेदार्थैर्भूषितस्य च॥ (NIL 1.2.40; KUM 1.2.40)
of this work, which is endowed with intelligence, has varied divisions and sections, is furnished with subtle reasoning and meaning, and is adorned with Vedic meanings...
भारतस्येतिहासस्य श्रूयतां पर्वसङ्ग्रहः॥ (BORI 1.2.33)
Let the summary of the books of the history of the Mahābhārata be heard.
पर्वानुक्रमणी पूर्वं द्वितीयं पर्वसङ्ग्रहः। पौष्यं पौलोममास्तीकमादिवंशावतारणम्॥ (BORI 1.2.34)
First is the list of the parvans; second, the summary of the parvans: Paushya, Pouloma, Aastika, and, beginning with these, the genealogical descent.
ततः सम्भवपर्वोक्तमद्भुतं देवनिर्मितम्। दाहो जतुगृहस्यात्र हैडिम्बं पर्व चोच्यते॥ (BORI 1.2.35)
Then, the marvelous, god-wrought burning of the house of lac as described in the Sambhava Parvan is told here, and the Hidimba Parvan is also recounted.
ततो बकवधः पर्व पर्व चैत्ररथं ततः। ततः स्वयंवरं देव्याः पाञ्चाल्याः पर्व चोच्यते॥ (BORI 1.2.36)
Then comes the section on the slaying of Baka, then the Chaitraratha section; then the section on the self-choice ceremony of the Panchala princess is named.
क्षत्रधर्मेण निर्जित्य ततो वैवाहिकं स्मृतम्। विदुरागमनं पर्व राज्यलम्भस्तथैव च॥ (BORI 1.2.37)
After conquering according to the warrior code, the marriage is described, then the episode of Vidura's arrival, and likewise the acquisition of the kingdom.
अर्जुनस्य वने वासः सुभद्राहरणं ततः। सुभद्राहरणादूर्ध्वं ज्ञेयं हरणहारिकम्॥ (BORI 1.2.38)
Arjuna's residence in the forest, then the abduction of Subhadra; after the abduction of Subhadra, the episode called Haraṇahārika should be known.
ततः खाण्डवदाहाख्यं तत्रैव मयदर्शनम्। सभापर्व ततः प्रोक्तं मन्त्रपर्व ततः परम्॥ (BORI 1.2.39)
Then comes the episode called the burning of Khāṇḍava, and there itself, the meeting with Maya; then the Sabhāparvan is recounted, and after that, the Mantraparvan.
जरासन्धवधः पर्व पर्व दिग्विजयस्तथा। पर्व दिग्विजयादूर्ध्वं राजसूयिकमुच्यते॥ (BORI 1.2.40)
Then comes the Jarasandhavadha book, and also the Digvijaya book; after the Digvijaya, the Rājasūya book is named.
ततश्चार्घाभिहरणं शिशुपालवधस्ततः। द्यूतपर्व ततः प्रोक्तमनुद्यूतमतः परम्॥ (BORI 1.2.41)
Then comes the bringing of the offering and the slaying of Shishupala. Next, the Dice Episode is described, and after it, the Sub-dice Episode.
तत आरण्यकं पर्व किर्मीरवध एव च। अर्जुनस्याभिगमनं पर्व ज्ञेयमतः परम्। (NIL 1.2.50; KUM 1.2.50)
Then comes the Āraṇyaka Parvan, and the Parvan of the slaying of Kirmira; the Parvan of Arjuna's arrival should be known next.
ईश्वरार्जुनयोर्युद्धं पर्व कैरातसञ्ज्ञितम्॥ (BORI 1.2.42)
The book describing the battle between Īśvara and Arjuna is called the 'Kairāta'.
इन्द्रलोकाभिगमनं पर्व ज्ञेयमतः परम्। तीर्थयात्रा ततः पर्व कुरुराजस्य धीमतः॥ (BORI 1.2.43)
Next comes the 'Journey to Indra's World' parvan, and then the 'Pilgrimage' parvan of the wise Kuru king.
जटासुरवधः पर्व यक्षयुद्धमतः परम्। तथैवाजगरं पर्व विज्ञेयं तदनन्तरम्॥ (BORI 1.2.44)
The Jatāsura-killing book, then the Yakṣa-battle immediately after that; likewise, the Python book should be known as coming immediately after that.
मार्कण्डेयसमस्या च पर्वोक्तं तदनन्तरम्। संवादश्च ततः पर्व द्रौपदीसत्यभामयोः॥ (BORI 1.2.45)
The book called Markandeya's Questioning is mentioned after that, and then the book of the dialogue between Draupadi and Satyabhama.
घोषयात्रा ततः पर्व ततः प्रायोपवेशनेम्। मन्त्रस्य निश्चयं चैव मृगस्वप्नोद्भवं ततः॥ (KUM 1.2.54)
Then comes the Ghosha-yatra book, then the account of the resolve to fast unto death, the firm decision about the counsel, and then the origin of the dream concerning the deer.
घोषयात्रा ततः पर्व मृगस्वप्नभयं ततः। व्रीहिद्रौणिकमाख्यानं ततोऽनन्तरमुच्यते॥ (BORI 1.2.46)
Then comes the Ghoṣayātrā book, then the fear caused by the deer dream, and immediately after that, the tale of Vṛīhidraunika is recounted.
द्रौपदीहरणं पर्व सैन्धवेन वनात्ततः। पतिव्रताया माहात्म्यं सावित्र्याश्चैवमद्भुतम्। रामोपाख्यानमत्रैव पर्व ज्ञेयमतः परम्॥ (NIL 1.2.56; KUM 1.2.56)
Then comes the Draupadī Harana book, about the abduction of Draupadī by the Sindhu prince from the forest; after that, the wondrous greatness of Sāvitrī, the devoted wife, and here also, the Rāma Upākhyāna book should be known as coming next.
कुण्डलाहरणं पर्व ततः परमिहोच्यते॥ (BORI 1.2.47)
Next, the Kunḍalaharaṇa Parvan—the episode of the taking of the earrings—is described here.
आरणेयं ततः पर्व वैराटं तदनन्तरम्। पाण्डवानां प्रवेशश्च समयस्य च पालनम्॥ (NIL 1.2.57; KUM 1.2.57)
Then, the Āraṇeya section, after that comes the Virāṭa section: the entry of the Pāṇḍavas and the fulfillment of their agreement.
कीचकानां वधः पर्व पर्व गोग्रहणं ततः॥ (BORI 1.2.48)
The section on the slaying of the Kīcakas, and then the section on the cattle seizure.
अभिमन्युना च वैराट्याः पर्व वैवाहिकं स्मृतम्। उद्योगपर्व विज्ञेयमत ऊर्ध्वं महाद्भुतम्॥ (BORI 1.2.49)
The section recounting the marriage of Abhimanyu and the people of Virata is next; after this, the Udyoga section—most wondrous—should be understood.
ततः सञ्जययानाख्यं पर्व ज्ञेयमतः परम्। प्रजागरं ततः पर्व धृतराष्ट्रस्य चिन्तया॥ (BORI 1.2.50)
Then, the book called Sañjaya’s Expedition should be known as next, and then the Vigil book, due to Dhṛtarāṣṭra’s anxiety.
पर्व सानत्सुजातं च गुह्यमध्यात्मदर्शनम्। यानसन्धिस्ततः पर्व भगवद्यानमेव च॥ (BORI 1.2.51)
The Sanatsujata book, with its secret instruction on spiritual knowledge, then the Yanasandhi book, and indeed also the Bhagavad Yana book.
मातलीयमुपाख्यानं चरितं गालवस्य च॥ (NIL 1.2.61; KUM 1.2.61)
the episode of Mātali and the deeds of Gālava
सावित्रं वामदेव्यं च वैन्योपाख्यानमेव च। जामदग्न्यमुपाख्यानं पर्व षोडशराजकम्॥ (NIL 1.2.62; KUM 1.2.62)
The Savitri, Vamadeva, and Vainya stories, the tale of Jamadagni's son—the sixteenth royal section.
सभाप्रवेशः कृष्णस्य विदुलापुत्रशासनम्। उद्योगः सैन्यनिर्याणं विश्वोपाख्यानमेव च॥ (NIL 1.2.63; KUM 1.2.63)
the entering of the assembly by Kṛṣṇa, the instruction of Vidulā's son, the preparations, the marching out of the army, and also the tale of Viśva
ज्ञेयं विवादपर्वात्र कर्णस्यापि महात्मनः। मन्त्रस्य निश्चयं कृत्वा कार्यस्य समनन्तरम्। श्वेतस्य वासुदेवेन चित्रं बहुकथाश्रयम्॥ (KUM 1.2.64–65)
Here should be included the Vivādaparvan—and also the episode of the great-souled Karṇa—then, once the counsel is decided and the matter addressed, the remarkable, much-discussed tale of Śveta by Vāsudeva.
निर्याणं पर्व च ततः कुरुपाण्डवसेनयोः॥ (BORI 1.2.52)
then, the section about the departure of the Kuru and Pāṇḍava armies
रथातिरथसङ्ख्या च पर्वोक्तं तदनन्तरम्। उलूकदूतागमनं पर्वामर्षविवर्धनम्॥ (BORI 1.2.53)
Then comes the section on the enumeration of charioteers and great charioteers; immediately after that, the section called 'The Coming of Uluka as Envoy,' which increases wrath.
अम्बोपाख्यानमपि च पर्व ज्ञेयमतः परम्। भीष्माभिषेचनं पर्व ज्ञेयमद्भुतकारणम्॥ (BORI 1.2.54)
Next should be known the Amba episode parvan, and then the Bhishma-anointing parvan, occasioned for a marvelous reason.
जम्बूखण्डविनिर्माणं पर्वोक्तं तदनन्तरम्। भूमिपर्व ततो ज्ञेयं द्वीपविस्तरकीर्तनम्॥ (BORI 1.2.55)
The Jambūdvīpa Creation Parvan is said to follow after that; then the Bhūmi Parvan should be known, which describes the extent of the continents.
दिव्यं चक्षुर्ददौ यत्र संजयाय महामुनिः। (KUM 1.2.69)
There, the great sage gave divine sight to Sañjaya.
पर्वोक्तं भगवद्गीता पर्व भीष्मवधस्ततः। द्रोणाभिषेकः पर्वोक्तं संशप्तकवधस्ततः॥ (BORI 1.2.56)
The parva called the Bhagavad Gita, then the Bhishma-vadha parva, then the appointment of Drona, and the parva called the destruction of the Samsaptakas, thereafter.
अभिमन्युवधः पर्व प्रतिज्ञापर्व चोच्यते। जयद्रथवधः पर्व घटोत्कचवधस्ततः॥ (BORI 1.2.57)
The Abhimanyu-slaying Parvan, and the Vow Parvan are named; then the Jayadratha-slaying Parvan, and thereafter the Ghaṭotkaca-slaying Parvan.
ततो द्रोणवधः पर्व विज्ञेयं लोमहर्षणम्। मोक्षो नारायणास्त्रस्य पर्वानन्तरमुच्यते॥ (BORI 1.2.58)
Then, the Dronavada Parvan—which is thrilling—should be known, and after that is the Parvan called the release of the Nārāyaṇa weapon.
कर्णपर्व ततो ज्ञेयं शल्यपर्व ततः परम्। ह्रदप्रवेशनं पर्व गदायुद्धमतः परम्॥ (BORI 1.2.59)
Then comes the Karṇa Parva, followed by the Śalya Parva; next is the Hrada-Praveśana Parva, and after that, the Gada-Yuddha.
सारस्वतं ततः पर्व तीर्थवंशगुणान्वितम्। अत ऊर्ध्वं तु बीभत्सं पर्व सौप्तिकमुच्यते॥ (BORI 1.2.60)
Then comes the Saraswata Parvan, furnished with accounts of sacred fords, lineages, and virtues; after that, however, the Bhībhatsa Parvan, called the Sauptika, is named.
ऐषीकं पर्व निर्दिष्टमत ऊर्ध्वं सुदारुणम्। जलप्रदानिकं पर्व स्त्रीपर्व च ततः परम्॥ (BORI 1.2.61)
Next comes the Aishika parvan, which is named as such and is very dreadful. After that is the Jalapradanika parvan, and then the Stri parvan.
श्राद्धपर्व ततो ज्ञेयं कुरूणामौर्ध्वदेहिकम्। आभिषेचनिकं पर्व धर्मराजस्य धीमतः॥ (BORI 1.2.62)
The Śrāddha section concerning the Kurus' funeral rites should be known next, and the investiture section of the wise Dharmarāja.
चार्वाकनिग्रहः पर्व रक्षसो ब्रह्मरूपिणः। प्रविभागो गृहाणां च पर्वोक्तं तदनन्तरम्॥ (BORI 1.2.63)
The suppression of Cārvāka is a parvan, as is the parvan about the rākṣasa taking the form of a Brāhmaṇa, and next, the distribution of the houses is also mentioned as a parvan.
शान्तिपर्व ततो यत्र राजधर्मानुकीर्तनम्। आपद्धर्मश्च पर्वोक्तं मोक्षधर्मस्ततः परम्॥ (BORI 1.2.64)
Then comes the Śānti Parva, in which the duties of kings are recounted, and the law of emergencies is also named as a Parva; next is the Mokṣadharma Parva.
शुकप्रश्नाभिगमनं ब्रह्मप्रश्नानुशासनम्। प्रादुर्भावश्च दुर्वासःसंवादश्चैव मायया॥ (NIL 1.2.77; KUM 1.2.78)
The approach of Śuka's questions, the teaching on questions about Brahman, the appearance and also the dialogue with Durvāsas through (divine) illusion.
ततः पर्व परिज्ञेयमानुशासनिकं परम्। स्वर्गारोहणिकं पर्व ततो भीष्मस्य धीमतः॥ (BORI 1.2.65)
Then, the next book should be known as the Anuśāsanika, and after that, the Svargārohaṇika, the book of the wise Bhīṣma.
ततोऽश्वमेधिकं पर्व सर्वपापप्रणाशनम्। अनुगीता ततः पर्व ज्ञेयमध्यात्मवाचकम्॥ (BORI 1.2.66)
Then comes the Aśvamedhika book, which removes all sins; then the Anugīta book, known for its discourse on the self.
पर्व चाश्रमवासाख्यं पुत्रदर्शनमेव च। नारदागमनं पर्व ततः परमिहोच्यते॥ (BORI 1.2.67)
Next is the book called Āśramavāsa, and also the meeting with the son, and the book about the arrival of Nārada—after that, these are mentioned here.
मौसलं पर्व च ततो घोरं समनुवर्ण्यते। महाप्रस्थानिकं पर्व स्वर्गारोहणिकं ततः॥ (BORI 1.2.68)
Then the terrible Mausala Parva is described, followed by the Mahaprasthanika Parva and then the Svargarohanika.
हरिवंशस्ततः पर्व पुराणं खिलसञ्ज्ञितम्। विष्णुपर्व शिशोश्चर्या विष्णोः कंसवधस्तथा॥ (NIL 1.2.82; KUM 1.2.83)
Then comes the Harivaṃśa section, the Purāṇa called the supplement, the Viṣṇu section detailing Viṣṇu's childhood deeds and also the slaying of Kaṃsa.
भविष्यत्पर्व चाप्युक्तं खिलेष्वेवाद्भुतं महत्॥ (BORI 1.2.69)
And the Bhaviṣyat Parvan is also described in the Khila, being truly marvelous and great.
एतत्पर्वशतं पूर्णं व्यासेनोक्तं महात्मना। यथावत्सूतपुत्रेण लोमहर्षणिना पुनः॥ (BORI 1.2.70)
This complete hundred-parvan account, spoken by the great Vyāsa, was again properly recited by Lomaharṣaṇa, the son of the Sūta.
कथितं नैमिषारण्ये पर्वाण्यष्टादशैव तु। समासो भारतस्यायं तत्रोक्तः पर्वसङ्ग्रहः॥ (BORI 1.2.71)
In the Naimisha Forest, the eighteen sections were thus recounted; this is the summary of the Mahabharata, with the collection of sections mentioned there.
पौष्ये पर्वणि माहात्म्यमुत्तङ्कस्योपवर्णितम्। पौलोमे भृगुवंशस्य विस्तारः परिकीर्तितः॥ (BORI 1.2.72)
In the Pauṣya section, the greatness of Uttanka is described, and in the Pauloma section, the account of the Bhṛgu lineage is recounted.
आस्तीके सर्वनागानां गरुडस्य च सम्भवः। क्षीरोदमथनं चैव जन्मोच्छैःश्रवसस्तथा॥ (BORI 1.2.73)
The tale of Āstīka, the origin of all the snakes and of Garuḍa, the churning of the ocean of milk, and the birth of Uccaiḥśravas as well.
यजतः सर्पसत्रेण राज्ञः पारिक्षितस्य च। कथेयमभिनिर्वृत्ता भारतानां महात्मनाम्॥ (BORI 1.2.74)
And the story of King Parikshit, who performed the snake-sacrifice, was thus accomplished—of the great-souled descendants of Bharata.
विविधाः सम्भवा राज्ञामुक्ताः सम्भवपर्वणि। अन्येषां चैव विप्राणामृषेर्द्वैपायनस्य च॥ (BORI 1.2.75)
Various origin stories of kings are told in the Book of Origins, as well as those of other brahmins and of the sage Dvaipayana.
अंशावतरणं चात्र देवानां परिकीर्तितम्। दैत्यानां दानवानां च यक्षाणां च महौजसाम्॥ (BORI 1.2.76)
Here the descent of partial incarnations of the gods is described, as well as those of the Daityas, Dānavas, and the mighty Yakṣas.
नागानामथ सर्पाणां गन्धर्वाणां पतत्रिणाम्। अन्येषां चैव भूतानां विविधानां समुद्भवः॥ (BORI 1.2.77)
and also the origin of the nāgas, serpents, gandharvas, birds, and various other beings
महर्षेराश्रमपदे कण्वस्य च तपस्विनः॥ (NIL 1.2.95; KUM 1.2.96)
at the hermitage of the great sage Kanva, the ascetic,
शकुन्तलायां दुष्यन्ताद्भरतश्चापि जज्ञिवान्। यस्य लोकेषु नाम्नेदं प्रथितं भारतं कुलम्॥ (NIL 1.2.96; KUM 1.2.97)
And from Śakuntalā and Duṣyanta was born Bharata, whose clan is renowned in the worlds by the name Bhārata.
वसूनां पुनरुत्पत्तिर्भागीरथ्यां महात्मनाम्। शन्तनोर्वेश्मनि पुनस्तेषां चारोहणं दिवि॥ (BORI 1.2.78)
Again, the birth of the great Vasus in Bhagirathi, and again, in Śantanu's house, their ascent to heaven.
तेजोंशानां च सङ्घाताद्भीष्मस्याप्यत्र सम्भवः। राज्यान्निवर्तनं चैव ब्रह्मचर्यव्रते स्थितिः॥ (BORI 1.2.79)
Also, Bhīṣma’s origin from the union of portions of energy, his renunciation of the kingdom, and his observance of the vow of celibacy.
प्रतिज्ञापालनं चैव रक्षा चित्राङ्गदस्य च। हते चित्राङ्गदे चैव रक्षा भ्रातुर्यवीयसः॥ (BORI 1.2.80)
Keeping his vow, and protecting Citrāṅgada, and—when Citrāṅgada was slain—also protecting his younger brother...
विचित्रवीर्यस्य तथा राज्ये सम्प्रतिपादनम्। धर्मस्य नृषु सम्भूतिरणीमाण्डव्यशापजा॥ (BORI 1.2.81)
the restoration of Vicitrasena to the kingdom, the arising of Dharma among men as a result of Ani-Mandavya's curse
कृष्णद्वैपायनाच्चैव प्रसूतिर्वरदानजा। धृतराष्ट्रस्य पाण्डोश्च पाण्डवानां च सम्भवः॥ (BORI 1.2.82)
And the birth from Kṛṣṇa Dvaipāyana, arising by a boon—the origin of Dhṛtarāṣṭra, Pāṇḍu, and the Pāṇḍavas.
वारणावतयात्रा च मन्त्रो दुर्योधनस्य च। कूटस्य धार्तराष्ट्रेण प्रेषणं पाण्डवान्प्रति॥ (NIL 1.2.102; KUM 1.2.103)
The journey to Varanavata, Duryodhana's plot, and the sending of the deceitful (plan) by the son of Dhritarashtra toward the Pandavas.
हितोपदेशश्च पथि धर्मराजस्य धीमतः। विदुरेण कृतो यत्र हितार्थं म्लेच्छभाषया॥ (NIL 1.2.103; KUM 1.2.104)
And the advice intended for Yudhishthira's welfare, given by the wise Vidura on the road, using a foreign language for their benefit.
विदुरस्य च वाक्येन सुरुङ्गोपक्रमक्रिया॥ (BORI 1.2.83)
and the action of undertaking the tunnel, by the words of Vidura,
निषाद्याः पञ्चपुत्रायाः सुप्ताया जतु वेश्मनि॥ (NIL 1.2.104; KUM 1.2.105)
While the Niṣāda woman with her five sons was asleep in the house of lac...
पुरोचनस्य चात्रैव दहनं सम्प्रकीर्तितम्। (NIL 1.2.105; KUM 1.2.106)
And here, the burning of Purocana is also described.
पाण्डवानां वने घोरे हिडिम्बायाश्च दर्शनम्। तत्रैव च हिडिम्बस्य वधो भीमान्महाबलात्। (NIL 1.2.106; KUM 1.2.107)
The Pāṇḍavas' terrifying encounter with Hiḍimbā in the forest, and there itself, the killing of Hiḍimba by the mighty Bhīma.
घटोत्कचस्य चोत्पत्तिरत्रैव परिकीर्तिता॥ (BORI 1.2.84)
And the birth of Ghaṭotkaca is also recounted here.
महर्षेर्दर्शनं चैव व्यासस्यामिततेजसः। तदाज्ञयैकचक्रायां ब्राह्मणस्य निवेशने॥ (NIL 1.2.107; KUM 1.2.108)
and the meeting with the great sage Vyāsa of immeasurable energy, and then, by his command, [their stay] in the house of the Brahmin in Ekacakra,
अज्ञातचर्या पाण्डूनां वासो ब्राह्मणवेश्मनि। बकस्य निधनं चैव नागराणां च विस्मयः॥ (BORI 1.2.85)
the Pāṇḍavas' period of living in disguise, their stay in a Brāhmaṇa's house, the slaying of Baka, and the amazement of the townspeople
सम्भवश्चैव कृष्णाया धृष्टद्युम्नस्य चैव ह। ब्राह्मणात्समुपश्रुत्य व्यासवाक्यप्रचोदिताः॥ (NIL 1.2.109; KUM 1.2.110)
And indeed, the births of Kṛṣṇā and Dhṛṣṭadyumna—having fully learned of them from a Brāhmaṇa, prompted by Vyāsa's words...
द्रौपदीं प्रार्थयन्तस्ते स्वयंवरदिदृक्षया। पञ्चालानभितो जग्मुर्यत्र कौतूहलान्विताः॥ (NIL 1.2.110; KUM 1.2.111)
Desiring Draupadī and eager to see the svayaṃvara, they went towards the land of the Pāñcālas, where they were filled with curiosity.
अङ्गारपर्णं निर्जित्य गङ्गाकूलेऽर्जुनस्तदा। सख्यं कृत्वा ततस्तेन तस्मादेव च शुश्रुवे॥ (NIL 1.2.111; KUM 1.2.112)
Then, having defeated Aṅgāraparṇa on the bank of the Gaṅgā, Arjuna made friendship with him, and thereupon heard from him himself.
भ्रातृभिः सहितः सर्वैः पाञ्चालानभितो ययौ॥ (BORI 1.2.86)
Accompanied by all his brothers, he went toward the Pañcālas.
पाञ्चालनगरे चापि लक्ष्यं भित्त्वा धनञ्जयः। (NIL 1.2.113; KUM 1.2.114)
And in the city of the Pāñcālas, Dhanañjaya, having pierced the target...
तापत्यमथ वासिष्ठमौर्वं चाख्यानमुत्तमम्। भीमसेनार्जुनौ यत्र संरब्धान्पृथिवीपतीन्। शल्यकर्णौ च तरसा जितवन्तौ महामृधे॥ (NIL 1.2.114; KUM 1.2.115)
Then the excellent narratives of Tāpatya, Vasiṣṭha, and Aurva, where Bhīmasena and Arjuna, by their strength, conquered the furious kings—Śalya and Karṇa—in the great battle.
दृष्ट्वा तयोश्च तद्वीर्यमप्रमेयममानुषम्। (NIL 1.2.115; KUM 1.2.116)
and having seen their immeasurable and superhuman prowess,
पञ्चेन्द्राणामुपाख्यानमत्रैवाद्भुतमुच्यते॥ (BORI 1.2.87)
Here indeed, the wondrous story of the five Indras is told.
जग्मतुस्तैः समागन्तुं शालां भार्गववेश्मनि। (NIL 1.2.116; KUM 1.2.117)
They went with them to the hall in Bhārgava's residence to meet there.
पञ्चानामेकपत्नीत्वे विमर्शो द्रुपदस्य च। द्रौपद्या देवविहितो विवाहश्चाप्यमानुषः॥ (BORI 1.2.88)
The discussion about the five (brothers) having one wife, Drupada, and the marriage with Draupadī, ordained by the gods and also superhuman...
क्षत्तुश्च धार्तराष्ट्रेण प्रेषणं पाण्डवान्प्रति। (NIL 1.2.118; KUM 1.2.119)
and the sending of the minister by Dhritarashtra's son to the Pandavas,
विदुरस्य च सम्प्राप्तिर्दर्शनं केशवस्य च। खाण्डवप्रस्थवासश्च तथा राज्यार्धशासनम्॥ (BORI 1.2.89)
The arrival of Vidura, the meeting with Keśava, the dwelling at Khāṇḍavaprastha, and also the rule over half the kingdom.
नारदस्याज्ञया चैव द्रौपद्याः समयक्रिया। सुन्दोपसुन्दयोस्तत्र उपाख्यानं प्रकीर्तितम्॥ (BORI 1.2.90)
Also, by the instruction of Nārada, the custom concerning Draupadī was established, and there the story of Sunda and Upasunda was recounted.
अनन्तरं च द्रौपद्या सहासीनं युधिष्ठिरम्॥ (NIL 1.2.120; KUM 1.2.121)
After that, Yudhiṣṭhira was sitting together with Draupadī.
अनु प्रविश्य विप्रार्थे फाल्गुनो गृह्य चायुधम्। मोक्षयित्वा गृहं गत्वा विप्रार्थं कृतनिश्चयः॥ (NIL 1.2.121; KUM 1.2.122)
Phālguna, having followed for the brāhmaṇa's sake and taken up his weapon, freed the house; then, firmly resolved to help the brāhmaṇa, he departed.
समयं पालयन्वीरो वनं यत्र जगाम ह। (NIL 1.2.122; KUM 1.2.123)
The hero, faithfully observing the agreement, departed for the forest.
पार्थस्य वनवासश्च उलूप्या पथि सङ्गमः। पुण्यतीर्थानुसंयानं बभ्रुवाहनजन्म च॥ (BORI 1.2.91)
Arjuna's exile in the forest, his encounter with Ulūpī on the way, his journeys to sacred places, and the birth of Babhruvāhana—
तत्रैव मोक्षयामास पञ्च सोऽप्सरसः शुभाः॥ (NIL 1.2.123; KUM 1.2.124)
There he released the five auspicious apsarases.
शापाद्ग्राहत्वमापन्ना ब्राह्मणस्य तपस्विनः। प्रभासतीर्थे पार्थेन कृष्णस्य च समागमः॥ (NIL 1.2.124; KUM 1.2.125)
Due to a curse, the ascetic Brahmin was turned into a crocodile; at the holy place of Prabhasa, there was an encounter with Arjuna and Krishna.
द्वारकायां सुभद्रा च कामयानेन कामिनी। वासुदेवस्यानुमते प्राप्ता चैव किरीटिना॥ (BORI 1.2.92)
In Dvārakā, Subhadrā, the maiden desired by him, was obtained by the Kiritin (Arjuna), with the consent of Vāsudeva.
हरणं गृह्य सम्प्राप्ते कृष्णे देवकिनन्दने। द्रौपद्यास्तनयानां च सम्भवोऽनुप्रकीर्तितः। विहारार्थं च गतयोः कृष्णयोर्यमुनामनु॥ (NIL 1.2.127; KUM 1.2.128)
The episode of the abduction, followed by the arrival of Kṛṣṇa, son of Devakī, is related, as is the birth of Draupadī’s sons, and the journey of the two Kṛṣṇas along the Yamunā for amusement.
सम्प्राप्तिश्चक्रधनुषोः खाण्डवस्य च दाहनम्॥ (BORI 1.2.93)
the acquisition of the discus and bow, and the burning of Khāṇḍava
अभिमन्योः सुभद्रायां जन्म चोत्तमतेजसः। मयस्य मोक्षो ज्वलनाद्भुजङ्गस्य च मोक्षणम्। महर्षेर्मन्दपालस्य शार्ङ्ग्यं तनयसम्भवः॥ (BORI 1.2.94)
The birth of Abhimanyu to Subhadra, the birth of one of great energy; the release of Maya from the Fire, and the freeing of the serpent; the ascetic sage Mandapala—the origin of Shaarngi and of sons.
इत्येतदाधिपर्वोक्तं प्रथमं बहुविस्तरम्। अध्यायानां शते द्वे तु सङ्ख्याते परमर्षिणा। अष्टादशैव चाध्याया व्यासेनोत्तमतेजसा॥ (BORI 1.2.95)
Thus, the Ādiparva, the first book, is narrated in great detail. There are two hundred chapters as enumerated by the supreme seer, and Vyāsa of great brilliance has indeed divided it into eighteen sections.
सप्त श्लोकसहस्राणि तथा नव शतानि च। श्लोकाश्च चतुराशीतिर्दृष्टो ग्रन्थो महात्मना॥ (BORI 1.2.96)
The text, as observed by the great-souled one, consists of seven thousand and nine hundred verses, plus eighty-four (more) verses.
द्वितीयं तु सभापर्व बहुवृत्तान्तमुच्यते। सभाक्रिया पाण्डवानां किङ्कराणां च दर्शनम्॥ (BORI 1.2.97)
The second, the Sabha Parva, is described as containing many stories—the assembly rites of the Pāṇḍavas and the vision of the attendants.
लोकपालसभाख्यानं नारदाद्देवदर्शनात्। राजसूयस्य चारम्भो जरासन्धवधस्तथा॥ (BORI 1.2.98)
The account of the assembly of the guardians of the world, as told by Nārada after his audience with the gods; the commencement of the Rājasūya sacrifice; and also the killing of Jarāsandha.
गिरिव्रजे निरुद्धानां राज्ञां कृष्णेन मोक्षणम्। तथा दिग्विजयोऽत्रैव पाण्डवानां प्रकीर्तितः॥(NIL 1.2.134; KUM 1.2.135)
The release by Krishna of the kings imprisoned in Girivraja, and here also the conquest of the directions by the Pandavas is described.
राज्ञामागमनं चैव सार्हणानां महक्रतौ। (NIL 1.2.135; KUM 1.2.136)
The arrival of the kings and also of the Sāraṇas at the great sacrifice.
राजसूयेऽर्घसंवादे शिशुपालवधस्तथा॥ (BORI 1.2.99)
At the Rājasūya sacrifice, at the dispute over the argha, and also the slaying of Śiśupāla.
यज्ञे विभूतिं तां दृष्ट्वा दुःखामर्षान्वितस्य च। दुर्योधनस्यावहासो भीमेन च सभातले॥ (BORI 1.2.100)
Seeing that prosperity during the sacrifice, and while Duryodhana was overcome with sorrow and outrage, Bhima derided him in the assembly hall.
यत्रास्य मन्युरुद्भूतो येन द्यूतमकारयत्। यत्र धर्मसुतं द्यूते शकुनिः कितवोऽजयत्॥ (BORI 1.2.101)
Where his anger was aroused and he caused the game of dice to be played; where, in that game, Shakuni the gambler defeated the son of Dharma.
यत्र द्यूतार्णवे मग्नान्द्रौपदी नौरिवार्णवात्। धृतराष्ट्रो महाप्राज्ञः स्नुषां परमदुःखिताम्॥ (NIL 1.2.138; KUM 1.2.139)
Where, when they were submerged in the ocean of dice, Draupadī—like a boat in the sea—Dhṛtarāṣṭra, the wise one, saw his daughter-in-law, who was utterly distressed...
तारयामास तांस्तीर्णाञ्ज्ञात्वा दुर्योधनो नृपः। पुनरेव ततो द्यूते समाह्वयत पाण्डवान्॥ (BORI 1.2.102)
Knowing that they had been rescued, King Duryodhana once again summoned the Pāṇḍavas to the dice game.
जित्वा स वनवासाय प्रेषयामास तांस्ततः। (NIL 1.2.140; KUM 1.2.141)
Having defeated them, he then sent them into exile in the forest.
एतत्सर्वं सभापर्व समाख्यातं महात्मना। अध्यायाः सप्ततिर्ज्ञेयास्तथा द्वौ चात्र सङ्ख्यया॥ (BORI 1.2.103)
All this—the Sabhāparvan—has been described by the great-souled one; there are seventy chapters, and two more besides, to be counted here.
श्लोकानां द्वे सहस्रे तु पञ्च श्लोकशतानि च। श्लोकाश्चैकादश ज्ञेयाः पर्वण्यस्मिन्प्रकीर्तिताः॥ (BORI 1.2.104)
There are two thousand five hundred and eleven verses recounted in this parvan.
अतः परं तृतीयं तु ज्ञेयमारण्यकं महत्। वनवासं प्रयातेषु पाण्डवेषु महात्मसु। (NIL 1.2.143; KUM 1.2.144)
After this, you should know that the third great book is the Āraṇyaka, relating to the exile to the forest of the mighty-souled Pāṇḍavas.
पौरानुगमनं चैव धर्मपुत्रस्य धीमतः॥ (BORI 1.2.105)
and the following by the citizens of the wise son of Dharma
अन्नौषधीनां च कृते पाण्डवेन महात्मना। द्विजानां भरणार्थं च कृतमाराधनं रवेः॥ (NIL 1.2.144; KUM 1.2.145)
Food and medicinal herbs were arranged by the great-souled Pāṇḍava, and support was provided for the brahmins, as an offering to the Sun.
धौम्योपदेशात्तिग्मांशुप्रसादादन्नसम्भः। हितं च ब्रुवतः क्षत्तुः परित्यागोऽम्बिकासुतात्॥ (NIL 1.2.145; KUM 1.2.146)
Through Dhaumya's guidance and the sun's favor, there was the appearance of food, beneficial counsel given by the steward, and abandonment by the son of Ambika.
त्यक्तस्य पाण्डुपुत्राणां समीपगमनं तथा। पुनरागमनं चैव धृतराष्ट्रस्य शासनात्॥ (NIL 1.2.146; KUM 1.2.147)
The approach of the sons of Pandu after having been abandoned, and also their return by the order of Dhritarashtra.
कर्णप्रोत्साहनाच्चैव धार्तराष्ट्रस्य दुर्मतेः। वनस्थान्पाण्डवान्हन्तुं मन्त्रो दुर्योधनस्यच॥ (NIL 1.2.147; KUM 1.2.148)
And through Karṇa's instigation, as well as the wickedness of Dhṛtarāṣṭra's son, there was a plot of Duryodhana to kill the exiled Pāṇḍavas.
तं दुष्टभावं विज्ञाय व्यासस्यागमनं द्रुतम्। निर्याणप्रतिषेधश्च सुरभ्याख्यानमेव च॥ (NIL 1.2.148; KUM 1.2.149)
Recognizing that evil intent, the swift arrival of Vyāsa, the prevention of [his] departure, and likewise the tale of Surabhi...
मैत्रेयागमनं चात्र राज्ञश्चैवानुशासनम्। शापोत्सर्गश्च तेनैव राज्ञो दुर्योधनस्य च॥ (NIL 1.2.149; KUM 1.2.150)
here, the arrival of Maitreya, the king's admonition, and also the pronouncement of a curse by him upon King Duryodhana
किर्मीरस्य वधश्चात्र भीमसेनेन संयुगे। (NIL 1.2.150; KUM 1.2.151)
And here, the slaying of Kirmira in battle by Bhimasena.
वृष्णीनामागमो यत्र पाञ्चालानां च सर्वशः। श्रुत्वा शकुनिना द्यूते निकृत्या निर्जितांश्च तान्। क्रुद्धस्यानुप्रशमनं हरेश्चैव किरीटिना॥ (NIL 1.2.151; KUM 1.2.152)
There is the arrival of the Vṛṣṇis and all the Pāñcālas, when, having heard that, through Śakuni's deceit in the game of dice, they had been defeated. Then comes the appeasement of the enraged Hari (Kṛṣṇa), and also of the diademed one (Arjuna).
परिदेवनं च पाञ्चाल्या वासुदेवस्य सन्निधौ। आश्वासनं च कृष्णेन दुःखार्तायाः प्रकीर्तितम्॥ (NIL 1.2.152; KUM 1.2.153)
The lamentation by Draupadi in Krishna’s presence, and the consolation spoken by Krishna to her in her distress, were recounted.
यत्र सौभवधाख्यानं किर्मीरवध एव च। सुभद्रायाः सपुत्रायाः कृष्णेन द्वारकां पुरीम्॥ (NIL 1.2.153; KUM 1.2.154)
where are told the stories of the destruction of Saubha, the slaying of Kirmira, and of Subhadra and her son being taken by Kṛṣṇa to the city of Dvārakā
नयनं द्रौपदेयानां धृष्टद्युम्नेन चैव ह। प्रवेशः पाण्डवेयानां रम्ये द्वैतवने ततः॥ (NIL 1.2.154; KUM 1.2.155)
The bringing of Draupadī's sons by Dhṛṣṭadyumna, and then the entry of the Pāṇḍavas into the pleasant Dvaita forest.
धर्मराजस्य चात्रैव संवादः कृष्णया सह। संवादश्च तथा राज्ञा भीमस्यापि प्रकीर्तितः॥ (NIL 1.2.155; KUM 1.2.156)
Here, the conversation of Dharmaraja with Krishna (Draupadi), as well as the conversation of the king with Bhima, is also described.
समीपं पाण्डुपुत्राणां व्यासस्यागमनं तथा। प्रतिश्रुत्याथ विद्याया दानं राज्ञो महर्षिणा॥ (NIL 1.2.156; KUM 1.2.157)
the approach of Vyāsa to the sons of Paṇḍu, and, having promised, then the granting of knowledge to the king by the great sage
गमनं काम्यके चापि व्यासे प्रतिगते ततः। (NIL 1.2.157; KUM 1.2.158)
Then, when Vyāsa had departed, their departure for Kamyaka as well...
अस्त्रहेतोर्विवासश्च पार्थस्यामिततेजसः॥ (BORI 1.2.106)
And the exile of Pārtha of immeasurable glory for the sake of weapons;
महादेवेन युद्धं च किरातवपुषा सह। दर्शनं लोकपालानां स्वर्गारोहणमेव च॥ (BORI 1.2.107)
Combat with Mahadeva, who had taken the form of a Kirata; an audience with the guardians of the worlds; and also an ascent to heaven.
महेन्द्रलोकगमनमस्त्रार्थे च किरीटिनः। यत्र चिन्ता समुत्पन्ना धृतराष्ट्रस्य भूयसी॥ (NIL 1.2.159; KUM 1.2.160)
the journey to Indra's world for the sake of divine weapons by Arjuna, where great anxiety arose in Dhritarashtra
दर्शनं बृहदश्वस्य महर्षेर्भावितात्मनः। युधिष्ठिरस्य चार्तस्य व्यसने परिदेवनम्॥ (BORI 1.2.108)
The meeting with Bṛhadāśva, the great seer of spiritual insight, and Yudhiṣṭhira's lamentation as he suffered misfortune.
नलोपाख्यानमत्रैव धर्मिष्ठं करुणोदयम्। दमयन्त्याः स्थितिर्यत्र नलस्य व्यसनागमे॥ (BORI 1.2.109)
Here is the story of Nala, righteous and full of compassion, which tells of Damayanti's situation when calamity befell Nala.
तथाऽक्षहृदयप्राप्तिस्तस्मादेव महर्षितः। लोमशस्यागमस्तत्र स्वर्गात्पाण्डुसुतान्प्रति॥ (NIL 1.2.162; KUM 1.2.163)
In this way, there was the acquisition of the science of dice—out of that very event—great affliction, and then the arrival of Lomasha from heaven to the sons of Pandu.
वनवासगतानां च पाण्डवानां महात्मनाम्। स्वर्गे प्रवृत्तिराख्याता लोमशेनार्जुनस्य वै॥ (BORI 1.2.110)
And the events concerning the great-souled Pāṇḍavas who had gone into exile in the forest were indeed described in heaven by Lomaśa to Arjuna.
तीर्थयात्रा तथैवात्र पाण्डवानां महात्मनाम्। जटासुरस्य तत्रैव वधः समुपवर्ण्यते॥ (BORI 1.2.111)
Here too, the pilgrimage of the great-souled Pāṇḍavas is described, as well as the slaying of Jaṭāsura there.
नियुक्तो भीमसेनश्च द्रौपद्या गन्धमादने। यत्र मन्दारपुष्पार्थं नलिनीं तामधर्षयत्॥ (BORI 1.2.112)
Bhīmasena, having been sent by Draupadī on Gandhamadana, forced his way into that lotus-lake where mandāra flowers were to be found.
यत्रास्य सुमहद्युद्धमभवत्सह राक्षसैः। यक्षैश्चापि महावीर्यैर्मणिमत्प्रमुखैस्तथा॥ (BORI 1.2.113)
There, a very great battle took place for him with the Rākṣasas and also with the mighty Yakṣas, led by Maṇimat and others.
आगस्त्यमपि चाख्यानं यत्र वातापिभक्षणम्। लोपामुद्राभिगमनमपत्यार्थमृषेरपि॥ (BORI 1.2.114)
Also the narrative of Agastya, in which he ate Vatapi and approached Lopamudra for the sake of offspring.
ततः श्येनकपोतीयमुपाख्यानमनन्तरम्। इन्द्रोऽग्निर्यत्र धर्मश्च अजिज्ञासञ्शिबिं नृपम्॥ (BORI 1.2.115)
Then immediately follows the story of the hawk and the pigeons, in which Indra, Agni, and Dharma put King Śibi to the test.
ऋश्यशृङ्गस्य चरितं कौमारब्रह्मचारिणः। जामदग्न्यस्य रामस्य चरितं भूरितेजसः॥ (BORI 1.2.116)
The account of R̥śyaśr̥ṅga, who was a celibate from childhood, and the account of Rāma Jāmadagnya, who was of great energy.
कार्तवीर्यवधो यत्र हैहयानां च वर्ण्यते। प्रभासतीर्थे पाण्डूनां वृष्णिभिश्च समागमः॥ (NIL 1.2.169; KUM 1.2.170)
Where the slaying of Kārtavīrya and the Haihayas is described, and the meeting of the Pāṇḍavas with the Vṛṣṇis at the sacred site of Prabhāsa.
सौकन्यमपि चाख्यानं च्यवनो यत्र भार्गवः॥ (BORI 1.2.117)
And also the tale of Sukanya, in which Cyavana, the descendant of Bhrigu, appears.
शर्यातियज्ञे नासत्यौ कृतवान्सोमपीथिनौ। ताभ्यां च यत्र स मुनिर्यौवनं प्रतिपादितः॥ (BORI 1.2.118)
At the sacrifice of Śaryāti, the two Aśvins performed the Soma-drinking; and there, by them, that sage had his youth restored.
मान्धातुश्चाप्युपाख्यानं राज्ञोऽत्रैव प्रकीर्तितम्॥ (NIL 1.2.171; KUM 1.2.172)
And here also the story of King Māndhātṛ is recounted.
जन्तूपाख्यानमत्रैव यत्र पुत्रेण सोमकः। पुत्रार्थमयजद्राजा लेभे पुत्रशतं च सः॥ (BORI 1.2.119)
The story of Jantu is also told here, where King Somaka, with his son, performed a sacrifice for the sake of a son and obtained a hundred sons.
अष्टावक्रीयमत्रैव विवादे यत्र बन्दिनम्। अष्टावक्रस्य विप्रर्षेर्जनकस्याध्वरेऽभवत्॥ (NIL 1.2.174; KUM 1.2.175)
Here also is the story of Ashtavakra, where, at Janaka's sacrifice, the brahmin sage Ashtavakra debated with Bandi.
नैयायिकानां मुख्येन वरुणस्यात्मजेन च। पराजितो यत्र बन्दी विवादेन महात्मना॥ (NIL 1.2.175; KUM 1.2.176)
There, Bandi was defeated in debate by the chief of the logicians and by the great-souled son of Varuṇa.
विजित्य सागरं प्राप्तं पितरं लब्धवानृषिः॥ (BORI 1.2.120)
Having conquered the ocean and reached his father, the sage attained him.
यवक्रीतस्य चाख्यानं रैभ्यस्य च महात्मनः। गन्धमादनयात्रा च वासो नारायणाश्रमे॥ (NIL 1.2.176; KUM 1.2.177)
The story of Yavakrīta and of the great-souled Raibhya; the journey to Gandhamādana, and the stay at the Nārāyaṇa hermitage.
व्रजन्पथि महाबाहुर्दृष्टवान्पवनात्मजम्॥ (NIL 1.2.177; KUM 1.2.178)
While traveling along the path, the mighty-armed one saw the son of the wind.
कदलीषण्डमध्यस्थं हनूमन्तं महाबलम्। यत्र सौगन्धिकार्थेऽसौ नलिनीं तामधर्षयत्॥ (NIL 1.2.178)
In the midst of a cluster of banana trees, Hanuman of great strength—there, for the sake of the Saugandhika lotus, he (Bhīma) disturbed that lotus pond.
जटासुरस्य च वधो राक्षसस्य वृकोदरात्। वृषपर्वणो राजर्षेस्ततोऽभिगमनं स्मृतम्॥ (NIL 1.2.180; KUM 1.2.181)
And the slaying of the rakshasa Jatāsura by Vṛkodara, then the approach to the royal sage Vṛṣaparvan, are remembered.
आर्ष्टिषेणाश्रमे चैषां गमनं वास एव च। प्रोत्साहनं च पाञ्चाल्या भीमस्यात्र महात्मनः॥ (NIL 1.2.181; KUM 1.2.182)
Their journey to and residence at the hermitage of Ṛṣṭiṣeṇa, and here, Draupadī's encouragement of the great-souled Bhīma.
कैलासारोहणं प्रोक्तं यत्र यक्षैर्बलोत्कटैः। युद्धमासीन्महाघोरं मणिमत्प्रमुखैः सह॥ (NIL 1.2.182; KUM 1.2.183)
The ascent of Mount Kailasa is described, where there was a fierce battle with the powerful Yakshas headed by Manimat.
समागमश्च पाण्डूनां यत्र वैश्रवणेन च। समागमश्चार्जुनस्य तत्रैव भ्रातृभिः सह॥ (NIL 1.2.183; KUM 1.2.184)
And the meeting of the Pāṇḍavas with Vaiśravaṇa there, and also Arjuna’s meeting with his brothers at that very place.
अवाप्य दिव्यान्यस्त्राणि गुर्वर्थे सव्यसाचिना। निवातकवचैर्युद्धं हिरण्यपुरवासिभिः॥ (BORI 1.2.121)
Having obtained divine weapons for the sake of his teacher, Savyasācin (Arjuna) fought a battle with the Nivātakavachas, the inhabitants of Hiranyapura.
निवातकवचैर्घोरैर्दानवैः सुरशत्रुभिः। पौलोमैः कालकेयैश्च यत्र युद्धं किरीटिनः॥ (NIL 1.2.185; KUM 1.2.186)
where the diademed hero fought a battle with the terrible Nivātakavaca Dānavas, the enemies of the gods, and with the Paulomas and the Kālakeyas
वधश्चैषां समाख्यातो राज्ञस्तेनैव धीमता। अस्त्रसन्दर्शनारम्भो धर्मराजस्य सन्निधौ॥ (NIL 1.2.186; KUM 1.2.187)
Their destruction has also been described by that wise king, and the exhibition of weapons commenced in the presence of Yudhishthira.
समागमश्च पार्थस्य भ्रातृभिर्गन्धमादने। अवरोहणं पुनश्चैव पाण्डूनां गन्धमादनात्॥ (NIL 1.2.187; KUM 1.2.188)
and the encounter of Arjuna with his brothers on Mount Gandhamadana, and then the descent again of the Pāṇḍavas from Gandhamadana
भीमस्य ग्रहणं चात्र पर्वताभोगवर्ष्मणा। भुजगेन्द्रेण बलिना तस्मिन्सुगहने वने॥ (NIL 1.2.188; KUM 1.2.189)
and here the seizing of Bhima, who was taken by the mighty lord of serpents with a body like a mass of mountains, in that dense forest
घोषयात्रा च गन्धर्वैर्यत्र युद्धं किरीटिनः॥ (BORI 1.2.122)
and the cattle-raid, where there was a battle between Arjuna and the Gandharvas
पुनरागमनं चैव तेषां द्वैतवनं सरः। जयद्रथेनापहारो द्रौपद्याश्चाश्रमान्तरात्॥ (BORI 1.2.123)
their return to the lake in the Dwaita forest, and the abduction of Draupadi by Jayadratha from another hermitage,
यत्रैनमन्वयाद्भीमो वायुवेगसमो जवे। मार्कण्डेयसमस्यायामुपाख्यानानि भागशः॥ (BORI 1.2.124)
where Bhima, as swift as the wind, went in pursuit of him; at the time of Markandeya's questions, stories (were told) in portions...
पृथोर्वैन्यस्य यत्रोक्तमाख्यानं परमर्षिणा॥ (NIL 1.2.191; KUM 1.2.192)
where the story of Prithu, son of Vena, is told by the supreme sage,
संवादश्च सरस्वत्यास्तार्क्ष्यर्षेः सुमहात्मनः। मत्स्योपाख्यानमत्रैव प्रोच्यते तदनन्तरम्॥ (NIL 1.2.192; KUM 1.2.193)
And the dialogue between Sarasvati and the greatly wise sage Tarkṣya, as well as the tale of the Fish, are narrated here, immediately thereafter.
मार्कण्डेयसमास्या च पुराणं परिकीर्त्यते। ऐन्द्रद्युम्नामुपाख्यानं धौन्धुमारं तथैव च॥ (NIL 1.2.193)
And from the conversation with Mārkaṇḍeya, the ancient tale is recounted—the story of Indradyumna and likewise the tale of Dhundhumāra.
पतिव्रतायाश्चाख्यानं तथैवाङ्गिरसं स्मृतम्। (NIL 1.2.194; KUM 1.2.195)
The account of the devoted wife, as well as that of the Angirasa, is mentioned.
संदर्शनं च कृष्णस्य संवादश्चैव सत्यया। पुनर्द्वैतवनं चैव पाण्डवाः समुपागताः। घोषयात्रा च गन्धर्वैर्यत्र बद्धः सुयोधनः॥ (NIL 1.2.195; KUM 1.2.196)
The meeting with Krishna and his conversation with Satyabhama; again, the visit of the Pandavas to the Dwaita forest; and the campaign against the cowherds, where Suyodhana was captured by the Gandharvas.
ह्रियमाणस्तु मन्दात्मा मोक्षितोऽसौ किरीटिना। धर्मराजस्य चात्रैव मृगस्वप्ननिदर्शनात्॥ (NIL 1.2.196; KUM 1.2.197)
But when the foolish Duryodhana was being carried away, he was released by Arjuna, just as Yudhishthira predicted here from the vision in the deer dream.
काम्यके काननश्रेष्ठे पुनर्गमनमुच्यते। (NIL 1.2.197; KUM 1.2.198)
The return to Kamyaka, the best of forests, is now recounted.
व्रीहिद्रौणिकमाख्यानमैन्द्रद्युम्नं तथैव च॥ (BORI 1.2.125)
The story of Vrihi, Draunika, and Indradyumna as well,
दुर्वाससोऽप्युपाख्यानमत्रैव परिकीर्तितम्। (NIL 1.2.198; KUM 1.2.199)
The story of Durvāsas also is recounted right here.
सावित्र्यौद्दालकीयं च वैन्योपाख्यानमेव च। चक्रे चैनं पञ्चशिखं यत्र भीमो महाबलः॥ (NIL 1.2.199; KUM 1.2.200)
He also composed the episodes of Savitri and Uddalaka, the episode of Vainya, and the Panchashikha episode in which the mighty Bhima appears.
रामायणमुपाख्यानमत्रैव बहुविस्तरम्॥ (BORI 1.2.126)
Here, too, is recounted at length the episode of the Rāmāyaṇa.
यत्र रामेण विक्रम्य निहतो रावणो युधि॥ (NIL 1.2.200; KUM 1.2.201)
where Rāvaṇa was slain in battle by the valiant Rāma
सावित्र्याश्चाप्युपाख्यानमत्रैव परिकीर्तितम्। (NIL 1.2.201; KUM 1.2.202)
And the story of Sāvitrī is indeed also recounted here.
कर्णस्य परिमोषोऽत्र कुण्डलाभ्यां पुरंदरात्। यत्रास्य शक्तिं तुष्टोऽसावदादेकवधाय च। (NIL 1.2.202; KUM 1.2.203)
Here is also told how Purandara took Karṇa's earrings, and how, being pleased, he gave him the spear that could slay one enemy.
आरणेयमुपाख्यानं यत्र धर्मोऽन्वशात्सुतम्। जग्मुर्लब्धवरा यत्र पाण्डवाः पश्चिमां दिशम्॥ (BORI 1.2.127)
The Araṇeya tale, where Yudhishthira pursued his son, and where the Pāṇḍavas, who had received boons, went in the western direction.
एतदारण्यकं पर्व तृतीयं परिकीर्तितम्। अत्राध्यायशते द्वे तु सङ्ख्याते परमर्षिणा। एकोनसप्ततिश्चैव तथाध्यायाः प्रकीर्तिताः॥ (BORI 1.2.128)
This third book, called the Āraṇyaka, is so declared; here, two hundred and sixty-nine chapters are enumerated by the supreme sage.
एकादश सहस्राणि श्लोकानां षट्शतानि च। चतुःषष्टिस्तथा श्लोकाः पर्वैतत्परिकीर्तितम्॥ (BORI 1.2.129)
This book is said to contain eleven thousand six hundred and sixty-four verses.
अतः परं निबोधेदं वैराटं पर्वविस्तरम्। विराटनगरं गत्वा श्मशाने विपुलां शमीम्। दृष्ट्वा संनिदधुस्तत्र पाण्डवा आयुधान्युत॥ (BORI 1.2.130)
Now hear in detail the Virāta episode: After going to the city of Virāta, the Pāṇḍavas, having seen a great Śamī tree in the cremation ground, deposited their weapons there.
यत्र प्रविश्य नगरं छद्मभिर्न्यवसन्त ते। पाञ्चालीं प्रार्थयानस्य कामोपहतचेतसः। (NIL 1.2.208; KUM 1.2.209)
There, having entered the city in disguise, they lived, while one whose mind was overcome by desire was wooing Panchali.
दुरात्मनो वधो यत्र कीचकस्य वृकोदरात्॥ (BORI 1.2.131)
where the wicked Kīcaka was killed by Bhīma
पाण्डवान्वेषणार्थं च राज्ञो दुर्योधनस्य च। चाराः प्रस्थापिताश्चात्र निपुणाः सर्वतो दिशम्॥ (NIL 1.2.209; KUM 1.2.210)
And here, skilled spies were sent out in every direction, both for the purpose of searching for the Pāṇḍavas and on the orders of King Duryodhana.
न च प्रवृत्तिस्तैर्लब्धा पाण्डवानां महात्मनाम्। (NIL 1.2.210; KUM 1.2.211)
And those great-souled Pāṇḍavas—no information about them was obtained by those agents.
गोग्रहे यत्र पार्थेन निर्जिताः कुरवो युधि। यत्रास्य युद्धं सुमहत्तैरासील्लोमहर्षणम्। ह्रियमाणश्च यत्रासौ भीमसेनेन मोक्षितः॥ (NIL 1.2.211; KUM 1.2.212)
Where, at the cattle capture, the Kurus were defeated in battle by Arjuna; where a very great and hair-raising fight of his with them took place; and where, as he was being dragged off, he was rescued by Bhīmasena...
गोधनं च विराटस्य मोक्षितं यत्र पाण्डवैः॥ (BORI 1.2.132)
and where the Pāṇḍavas rescued Virāṭa’s cattle
अनन्तरं च कुरुभिस्तस्य गोग्रहणं कृतम्॥ (NIL 1.2.212; KUM 1.2.213)
And afterwards, the Kurus seized his cattle.
प्रत्याहृतं गोधनं च विक्रमेण किरीटिना॥ (NIL 1.2.213; KUM 1.2.214)
And the cattle were recovered by Kiritin (Arjuna) through his valor.
विराटेनोत्तरा दत्ता स्नुषा यत्र किरीटिनः। अभिमन्युं समुद्दिश्य सौभद्रमरिघातिनम्॥ (BORI 1.2.133)
There, Virata gave Uttara as a daughter-in-law to the wearer of the diadem, referring to Abhimanyu, the son of Subhadra and slayer of enemies.
चतुर्थमेतद्विपुलं वैराटं पर्व वर्णितम्। अत्रापि परिसङ्ख्यातमध्यायानां महात्मना॥ (BORI 1.2.134)
This is the fourth great book, the Virāṭa, which has been described; here too the chapters have been enumerated by the great-souled one.
सप्तषष्टिरथो पूर्णा श्लोकाग्रमपि मे शृणु। श्लोकानां द्वे सहस्रे तु श्लोकाः पञ्चाशदेव तु। पर्वण्यस्मिन्समाख्याताः सङ्ख्यया परमर्षिणा॥ (BORI 1.2.135)
Sixty-seven (chapters) in total—now hear from me also the verse count: there are two thousand and exactly fifty verses in this section, as enumerated by the great sage.
उद्योगपर्व विज्ञेयं पञ्चमं शृण्वतः परम्। उपप्लव्ये निविष्टेषु पाण्डवेषु जिगीषया। दुर्योधनोऽर्जुनश्चैव वासुदेवमुपस्थितौ॥ (BORI 1.2.136)
The Udyoga Parva should be known as the fifth, and as you listen, when the Pāṇḍavas had settled at Upaplavya with the intention of winning, both Duryodhana and Arjuna approached Vāsudeva.
साहाय्यमस्मिन्समरे भवान्नौ कर्तुमर्हति। इत्युक्ते वचने कृष्णो यत्रोवाच महामतिः॥ (BORI 1.2.137)
You ought to render us assistance in this battle—when this request was made, Kṛṣṇa, the wise one, then spoke.
अयुध्यमानमात्मानं मन्त्रिणं पुरुषर्षभौ। अक्षौहिणीं वा सैन्यस्य कस्य वा किं ददाम्यहम्॥ (BORI 1.2.138)
O best of men, do I give myself not fighting, as an adviser, or an Akshauhini of troops? Or to whom do I give what?
वव्रे दुर्योधनः सैन्यं मन्दात्मा यत्र दुर्मतिः। अयुध्यमानं सचिवं वव्रे कृष्णं धनञ्जयः॥ (BORI 1.2.139)
Duryodhana, dull of mind and evil-intentioned, chose the army; Dhanañjaya chose Kṛṣṇa, who would not fight, as his counselor.
मद्रराजं व राजानमायान्तं पाण्डवान्प्रति। उपहारैर्वञ्चायत्वा वर्त्मन्येव सुयोधनः॥ (NIL 1.2.222; KUM 1.2.223)
Suyodhana, having deceived the king of Madra (or the king) who was coming to the Pāṇḍavas with gifts, right on the road...
वरदं तं वरं वव्रे साहाय्यं क्रियतां मम। शल्यस्तस्मै प्रतिश्रुत्य जगामोद्दिश्य पाण्डवान्॥ (NIL 1.2.223; KUM 1.2.224)
He asked that boon-giver for a boon: "Grant me your assistance." Shalya, having promised him, departed to approach the Pāṇḍavas.
शान्तिपूर्वं चाकथयद्यत्रेन्द्रविजयं नृपः। पुरोहितप्रेषणं च पाण्डवैः कौरवान्प्रति॥ (NIL 1.2.224; KUM 1.2.225)
The king peacefully narrated there the story of Indra's victory, and how the Pāṇḍavas sent their priest to the Kauravas.
वैचित्रवीर्यस्य वचः समादाय पुरोधसः। तथेन्द्रविजयं चापि यानं चैव पुरोधसः॥ (NIL 1.2.225; KUM 1.2.226)
Taking up the words of the priest of Vichitravirya's line, as well as the chariot and also Indra's victory of the priest...
सञ्जयं प्रेषयामास शमार्थं पाण्डवान्प्रति। यत्र दूतं महाराजो धृतराष्ट्रः प्रतापवान्॥ (BORI 1.2.140)
Dhṛtarāṣṭra, the great and mighty king, sent Sañjaya as his envoy to the Pāṇḍavas for the sake of peace.
श्रुत्वा च पाण्डवान्यत्र वासुदेवपुरोगमान्। प्रजागरः सम्प्रजज्ञे धृतराष्ट्रस्य चिन्तया॥ (BORI 1.2.141)
And when he heard that the Pāṇḍavas, headed by Vāsudeva, were there, wakefulness arose in Dhṛtarāṣṭra due to anxiety.
विदुरो यत्र वाक्यानि विचित्राणि हितानि च। श्रावयामास राजानं धृतराष्ट्रं मनीषिणम्॥ (BORI 1.2.142)
There, Vidura caused the wise King Dhritarashtra to hear various and beneficial words.
तथा सनत्सुजातेन यत्राध्यात्ममनुत्तमम्। मनस्तापान्वितो राजा श्रावितः शोकलालसः॥ (BORI 1.2.143)
Likewise, where the king, afflicted with mental anguish and longing in grief, was made to hear the supreme spiritual teaching by Sanatsujata.
प्रभाते राजसमितौ सञ्जयो यत्र चाभिभोः। ऐकात्म्यं वासुदेवस्य प्रोक्तवानर्जुनस्य च॥ (BORI 1.2.144)
In the morning, in the royal assembly, Saṃjaya recounted the unity of Vāsudeva and Arjuna before the two elders.
यत्र कृष्णो दयापन्नः सन्धिमिच्छन्महायशाः। स्वयमागाच्छमं कर्तुं नगरं नागसाह्वयम्॥ (BORI 1.2.145)
where Kṛṣṇa, filled with compassion and desiring peace, the greatly renowned one, personally came to the city called Nāgasāhvaya to make reconciliation
प्रत्याख्यानं च कृष्णस्य राज्ञा दुर्योधनेन वै। शमार्थं याचमानस्य पक्षयोरुभयोर्हितम्॥ (BORI 1.2.146)
And the rejection by King Duryodhana of Krishna—when he was seeking peace and requesting what would be beneficial for both sides.
दम्भोद्भवस्य चाख्यानमत्रैव परिकीर्तितम्। वरान्वेषणमत्रैव मातलेश्च महात्मनः॥ (NIL 1.2.233; KUM 1.2.234)
The story of Dambhodbhava is recounted right here, as is the quest for boons by the great-souled Mātali.
महर्षेश्चापि चरितं कथितं गालवस्य वै। विदुलायाश्च पुत्रस्य प्रोक्तं चाप्यनुशासनम्॥ (NIL 1.2.234; KUM 1.2.235)
The story of the great sage Gālava was indeed told, and the instruction given by Vidulā to her son was also recounted.
कर्णदुर्योधनादीनां दुष्टं विज्ञाय मन्त्रितम्। योगेश्वरत्वं कृष्णेन यत्र राजसु दर्शितम्॥ (BORI 1.2.147)
Where, having discovered the wicked counsel of Karṇa, Duryodhana, and the rest, Kṛṣṇa displayed his mastery of yoga before the kings.
रथमारोप्य कृष्णेन यत्र कर्णोऽनुमन्त्रितः। उपायपूर्वं शौण्डीर्यात्प्रत्याख्यातश्च तेन सः॥ (BORI 1.2.148)
There, having seated Karna in his chariot, Kṛṣṇa addressed him, and though Kṛṣṇa used careful reasoning, Karna, out of pride, rejected him.
आगम्य हास्तिनपुरादुपप्लाव्यमरिन्दमः। पाण्डवानां यथावृत्तं सर्वमाख्यातवान्हरिः॥ (NIL 1.2.237; KUM 1.2.238)
Hari, the subduer of enemies, having come from Hastinapura to Upaplavya, told the Pāṇḍavas everything as it had happened.
ते तस्य वचनं श्रुत्वा मन्त्रयित्वा च यद्धितम्। साङ्ग्रामिकं ततः सर्वं सञ्जं चक्रुः परन्तपाः॥ (NIL 1.2.238; KUM 1.2.239)
Having heard his words and having consulted together for what was beneficial, the mighty warriors then made all the necessary preparations for battle.
ततश्चाप्यभिनिर्यात्रा रथाश्वनरदन्तिनाम्। नगराद्धास्तिनपुराद्बलसङ्ख्यानमेव च॥ (BORI 1.2.149)
Then also the departure of the chariots, horses, men, and elephants from the city of Hastinapura, and indeed the reckoning of the army...
यत्र राज्ञा उलूकस्य प्रेषणं पाण्डवान्प्रति। श्वोभाविनि महायुद्धे दूत्येन क्रूरवादिना। रथातिरथसङ्ख्यानमम्बोपाख्यानमेव च॥ (BORI 1.2.150)
Where the king sent Uluka as envoy to the Pandavas, speaking harshly about the coming great battle; the enumeration of chariot-warriors and great chariot-warriors, and also the tale of Amba...
एतत्सुबहुवृत्तान्तं पञ्चमं पर्व भारते। उद्योगपर्व निर्दिष्टं सन्धिविग्रहसंश्रितम्॥ (BORI 1.2.151)
This fifth book of the Mahabharata, containing many diverse events, is called the Udyoga Parva and is concerned with peace and conflict.
अध्यायाः सङ्ख्यया त्वत्र षडशीतिशतं स्मृतम्। श्लोकानां षट्सहस्राणि तावन्त्येव शतानि च॥ (BORI 1.2.152)
However, the number of chapters here is said to be one hundred and eighty-six, and of verses, six thousand and as many hundreds.
श्लोकाश्च नवतिः प्रोक्तास्तथैवाष्टौ महात्मना। व्यासेनोदारमतिना पर्वण्यस्मिंस्तपोधनाः॥ (BORI 1.2.153)
And, O ascetic, ninety and likewise eight verses have also been stated by the great-souled Vyāsa of noble mind in this book.
अत ऊर्ध्वं विचित्रार्थं भीष्मपर्व प्रचक्षते। जम्बूखण्डविनिर्माणं यत्रोक्तं सञ्जयेन ह॥ (BORI 1.2.154)
After this, the Bhishma Parva—full of varied topics—is presented, in which the creation of the Jambū continent is described by Sanjaya.
यत्र युद्धमभूद्घोरं दशाहान्यतिदारुणम्। यत्र यौधिष्ठिरं सैन्यं विषादमगमत्परम्॥ (BORI 1.2.155)
where a fierce, extremely dreadful battle took place for ten days, and where Yudhishthira's army fell into utter distress
कश्मलं यत्र पार्थस्य वासुदेवो महामतिः। मोहजं नाशयामास हेतुभिर्मोक्षदर्शनैः॥ (BORI 1.2.156)
Where the wise Vāsudeva dispelled Pārtha's despondency, born of delusion, with reason and teachings on liberation.
समीक्ष्यादोक्षजः क्षिप्रं युधिष्ठिरहिते रतः॥ (NIL 1.2.247; KUM 1.2.248)
Upon seeing this, the unborn Lord, devoted to Yudhishthira's welfare, quickly...
रथादाप्लुत्य वेगेन स्वयं कृष्ण उदारधीः। प्रतोदपाणिराधावद्भीष्मं हन्तुं व्यपेतभीः॥ (NIL 1.2.248; KUM 1.2.249)
Leaping quickly from the chariot himself, Krishna of noble mind, with the whip in his hand, ran toward Bhishma, fearless, to slay him.
वाक्यप्रतोदाभिहतो यत्र कृष्णेन पाण्डवः। गाण्डीवधन्वा समरे सर्वशस्त्रभृतां वरः॥ (NIL 1.2.249; KUM 1.2.250)
where Arjuna, the best of all wielders of weapons, who bore the Gandīva bow, was spurred on by Kṛṣṇa with the goad of words in battle
शिखण्डिनं पुरस्कृत्य यत्र पार्थो महाधनुः। विनिघ्नन्निशितैर्बाणै रथाद्भीष्ममपातयत्॥ (BORI 1.2.157)
Where Pārtha, wielding his great bow, placed Śikhaṇḍin in front and, striking with sharp arrows, drove Bhīṣma down from his chariot.
शरतल्पगतश्चैव भीष्मो यत्र बभूव ह। (NIL 1.2.251; KUM 1.2.252)
and where Bhishma truly lay upon his bed of arrows.
षष्ठमेतन्महापर्व भारते परिकीर्तितम्। अध्यायानां शतं प्रोक्तं सप्तदश तथापरे॥ (BORI 1.2.158)
This, the sixth great parvan described in the Mahabharata, is said to have one hundred chapters and a further seventeen others.
पञ्च श्लोकसहस्राणि सङ्ख्ययाष्टौ शतानि च। श्लोकाश्च चतुराशीतिः पर्वण्यस्मिन्प्रकीर्तिताः। व्यासेन वेदविदुषा सङ्ख्याता भीष्मपर्वणि॥ (BORI 1.2.159)
In this section, called the Bhīṣma Parva, Vyāsa, knower of the Veda, is said to have included five thousand eight hundred and eighty-four verses by count.
द्रोणपर्व ततश्चित्रं बहुवृत्तान्तमुच्यते। सैनापत्येऽभिषिक्तोऽथ यत्राचार्यः प्रतापवान्॥ (NIL 1.2.254; KUM 1.2.255)
Then the remarkable Droṇa Parvan, replete with many episodes, is recounted, in which the valiant teacher was inaugurated as commander of the army.
दुर्योधनस्य प्रीत्यर्थं प्रतिजज्ञे महास्त्रवित्। ग्रहणं धर्मराजस्य पाण्डुपुत्रस्य धीमतः॥ (NIL 1.2.255; KUM 1.2.256)
The great wielder of weapons promised, in order to win Duryodhana's favor, to capture Yudhishthira, the wise son of Pandu.
यत्र संशप्तकाः पार्थमपनिन्यू रणाजिरात्॥ (BORI 1.2.160)
where the Saṁśaptakas drove Arjuna from the battlefield
भगदत्तो महाराजो यत्र शक्रसमो युधि। सुप्रतीकेन नागेन सह शस्तः किरीटिना॥ (BORI 1.2.161)
Where Bhagadatta, the great king, who was Indra’s equal in battle, together with the elephant Supratika, was slain by Arjuna the Kiritin.
यत्राभिमन्युं बहवो जघ्नुर्लोकमहारथाः। जयद्रथमुखा बालं शूरमप्राप्तयौवनम्॥ (BORI 1.2.162)
where many great warriors of the world, led by Jayadratha, killed Abhimanyu—a brave boy who had not yet reached manhood
हतेऽभिमन्यौ क्रुद्धेन यत्र पार्थेन संयुगे। अक्षौहिणीः सप्त हत्वा हतो राजा जयद्रथः। यत्र भीमो महाबाहुः सात्यकिश्च महारथः॥ (NIL 1.2.259; KUM 1.2.260)
Where, when Abhimanyu was slain, the enraged Arjuna in battle, having destroyed seven akshauhinis, killed King Jayadratha; where mighty-armed Bhima and Satyaki, the great warrior, [were present]...
अन्वेषणार्थं पार्थस्य युधिष्ठिरनृपाज्ञया। प्रविष्टौ भारतीं सेनामप्रधृष्यां सुरैरपि॥ (NIL 1.2.260; KUM 1.2.261)
For the purpose of searching for Arjuna, by King Yudhishthira's command, they entered the Bharata army—invincible even to the gods.
संशप्तकावशेषं च कृतं निःशेषमाहवे॥ (BORI 1.2.163)
And whatever remained of the Saṁśaptakas was completely destroyed in the battle.
संशप्तकानां वीराणां कोट्यो नव महात्मनाम्॥ (NIL 1.2.261; KUM 1.2.262)
Nine crore great-souled warriors of the Saṁśaptakas.
किरीटिनाभिनिष्क्रम्य प्रापिता यमसादनम्। धृतराष्ट्रस्य पुत्राश्च तथा पाषाणयोधिनः॥ (NIL 1.2.262; KUM 1.2.263)
After going forth, the one with a crown sent the sons of Dhritarashtra, as well as the stone-armed warriors, to the abode of Yama.
नारायणाश्च गोपालाः समरे चित्रयोधिनः। (NIL 1.2.263; KUM 1.2.264)
The Narayanas and Gopalas—remarkable warriors in battle.
अलम्बुसः श्रुतायुश्च जलसन्धश्च वीर्यवान्। सौमदत्तिर्विराटश्च द्रुपदश्च महारथः। घटोत्कचादयश्चान्ये निहता द्रोणपर्वणि॥ (BORI 1.2.164)
Alambusa, Shrutayus, the powerful Jalasandha, Saumadatti, Virata, Drupada the great chariot-warrior, Ghatotkacha and others—these and others were slain during the Drona Parvan.
अश्वत्थामापि चात्रैव द्रोणे युधि निपातिते। अस्त्रं प्रादुश्चकारोग्रं नारायणममर्षितः॥ (BORI 1.2.165)
Aśvatthāman too, enraged, right there after Droṇa had fallen in battle, unleashed the terrible Nārāyaṇa weapon.
आग्नेयं कीर्त्यते यत्र रुद्रमाहात्म्यमुत्तमम्। व्यासस्य चाप्यागमनं माहात्म्यं कृष्णपार्थयोः॥ (NIL 1.2.266; KUM 1.2.267)
Where the Agneya weapon is described, the supreme greatness of Rudra, the arrival of Vyasa, and the greatness of Krishna and Arjuna.
सप्तमं भारते पर्व महदेतदुदाहृतम्। अत्र ते पृथिवीपालाः प्रायशो निधनं गताः। द्रोणपर्वणि ये शूरा निर्दिष्टाः पुरुषर्षभाः॥ (BORI 1.2.166)
This is called the seventh great book in the Bhārata. Here, most of those kings who are described as heroes and foremost among men in the Droṇa Parvan met their death.
अध्यायानां शतं प्रोक्तमध्यायाः सप्ततिस्तथा। अष्टौ श्लोकसहस्राणि तथा नव शतानि च॥ (BORI 1.2.167)
It is said to consist of one hundred and seventy chapters, and likewise eight thousand nine hundred verses.
श्लोका नव तथैवात्र सङ्ख्यातास्तत्त्वदर्शिना। पाराशर्येण मुनिना सञ्चिन्त्य द्रोणपर्वणि॥ (BORI 1.2.168)
Here, likewise, nine verses are enumerated by the sage, the son of Parāśara, the knower of truth, having considered (them) in the Droṇa Parvan.
अतः परं कर्णपर्व प्रोच्यते परमाद्भुतम्। सारथ्ये विनियोगश्च मद्रराजस्य धीमतः। आख्यातं यत्र पौराणं त्रिपुरस्य निपातनम्॥ (BORI 1.2.169)
After this, the most wondrous Karṇa Parvan is narrated, in which the wise king of Madra is appointed as charioteer, and where the ancient tale of the destruction of Tripura is recounted.
प्रयाणे परुषश्चात्र संवादः कर्णशल्ययोः। हंसकाकीयमाख्यानमत्रैवाक्षेपसंहितम्॥ (BORI 1.2.170)
During the advance, there is a harsh conversation between Karna and Shalya, and here is also found the tale of the swan and the crow, recounted with reproaches.
वधः पाण्ड्यस्य च तथा अश्वत्थाम्ना महात्मना। दण्डसेनस्य च ततो दण्डस्य च वधस्तथा॥ (NIL 1.2.273; KUM 1.2.274)
The killing of the Pāṇḍya also by the great-souled Aśvatthāman, and then the death of Daṇḍasena and likewise the killing of Daṇḍa.
द्वैरथे यत्र कर्णेन धर्मराजो युधिष्टिरः। संशयं गमितो युद्धे मिषतां सर्वधन्विनाम्॥ (NIL 1.2.274; KUM 1.2.275)
Where, in single combat, King Yudhiṣṭhira was put in grave danger in battle by Karṇa, as all the bowmen watched...
अन्योन्यं प्रति च क्रोधो युधिष्ठिरकिरीटिनोः। यत्रैवानुनयः प्रोक्तो माधवेनार्जुनस्य हि॥ (NIL 1.2.275; KUM 1.2.276)
Where anger arose between Yudhishthira and the diademed Arjuna towards each other, and where reconciliation was indeed spoken by Madhava to Arjuna.
प्रतिज्ञापूर्वकं चापि वक्षो दुःशासनस्य च। भित्त्वा वृकोदरो रक्तं पीतवान्यत्र संयुगे॥ (NIL 1.2.276; KUM 1.2.277)
where, after making a vow, Vṛkodara pierced Duḥśāsana's chest and drank his blood in battle
द्वैरथे यत्र पार्थेन हतः कर्णो महारथः॥ (BORI 1.2.171)
where, in single combat, the great warrior Karna was killed by Arjuna.
अष्टमं पर्व निर्दिष्टमेतद्भारतचिन्तकैः। एकोनसप्ततिः प्रोक्ता अध्यायाः कर्णपर्वणि। चत्वार्येव सहस्राणि नव श्लोकशतानि च॥ (BORI 1.2.172)
This, the eighth book, has been designated by the compilers of the Bharata. In the Karṇa Parvan there are said to be sixty-nine chapters, and exactly four thousand nine hundred verses.
चतुःषष्टिस्तथा श्लोकाः पर्वण्यस्मिन्प्रकीर्तिताः। (NIL 1.2.279; KUM 1.2.280)
And sixty-four verses are mentioned in this parvan.
अतः परं विचित्रार्थं शल्यपर्व प्रकीर्तितम्। हतप्रवीरे सैन्ये तु नेता मद्रेश्वरोऽभवत्॥ (BORI 1.2.173)
After this, the Shalya Parva, of striking episodes, is recounted; when the heroes of the army had been slain, the king of Madra became the leader.
यत्र कौमारमाख्यानमभिषेकस्य कर्म च॥ (NIL 1.2.280; KUM 1.2.281)
where the account of youth and the rite of consecration are related,
वृत्तानि रथयुद्धानि कीर्त्यन्ते यत्र भागशः। विनाशः कुरुमुख्यानां शल्यपर्वणि कीर्त्यते॥ (BORI 1.2.174)
Where, section by section, the events and chariot battles are recounted, and the destruction of the Kuru chiefs is described in the Shalya Parvan.
शल्यस्य निधनं चात्र धर्मराजान्महारथात्।
and here the killing of Śalya by Dharmarāja, the great chariot-warrior...
शकुनेश्च वधोऽत्रैव सहदेवेन संयुगे॥ (NIL 1.2.282; KUM 1.2.283)
And here the slaying of Shakuni by Sahadeva in battle.
सैन्ये च हतभूयिष्ठे किञ्चिच्छिष्टे सुयोधनः। ह्रदं प्रविश्य यत्रासौ संस्तभ्यापोव्यवस्थितः॥ (NIL 1.2.283; KUM 1.2.284)
When most of the army had been slain and only a few remained, Suyodhana entered a lake, where he remained after checking the waters.
प्रवृत्तिस्तत्र चाख्याता यत्र भीमस्य लुब्धकैः। क्षेपयुक्तैर्वचोभिश्च धर्मराजस्य धीमतः॥ (NIL 1.2.284; KUM 1.2.285)
There, the account was related—how Bhīma, by the hunters, and also of the wise Dharmarāja, with reproachful words.
ह्रदात्समुत्थितो यत्र धार्तराष्ट्रोऽत्यमर्षणः। (NIL 1.2.285; KUM 1.2.286)
where the enraged son of Dhṛtarāṣṭra arose from the lake
गदायुद्धं तु तुमुलमत्रैव परिकीर्तितम्।
But here the fierce mace battle is particularly described.
समवाये च युद्धस्य रामस्यागमनं स्मृतम्। (NIL 1.2.286; KUM 1.2.287)
The arrival of Rāma at the assembly of the battle is recalled.
सरस्वत्याश्च तीर्थानां पुण्यता परिकीर्तिता॥ (BORI 1.2.175)
and the exceptional holiness of the sacred fords of Sarasvati is celebrated
दुर्योधनस्य राज्ञोऽथ यत्र भीमेन संयुगे॥ (NIL 1.2.287; KUM 1.2.288)
Then, where King Duryodhana, in battle, by Bhima...
ऊरू भग्नो प्रसह्याजौ गदया भीमवेगया। (NIL 1.2.288; KUM 1.2.289)
His thighs were broken forcibly in battle by the mace wielded with Bhīma's strength.
नवमं पर्व निर्दिष्टमेतदद्भुतमर्थवत्। एकोनषष्टिरध्यायास्तत्र सङ्ख्याविशारदैः॥ (BORI 1.2.176)
This extraordinary and meaningful ninth book is described as containing fifty-nine chapters therein, according to those skilled in calculation.
सङ्ख्याता बहुवृत्तान्ताः श्लोकाग्रं चात्र शस्यते। त्रीणि श्लोकसहस्राणि द्वे शते विंशतिस्तथा। मुनिना सम्प्रणीतानि कौरवाणां यशोभृताम्॥ (BORI 1.2.177)
Here, the number of verses, rich in stories and as related by the sage, is declared to be three thousand two hundred and twenty; these are composed about the famed Kauravas.
अतः परं प्रवक्ष्यामि सौप्तिकं पर्व दारुणम्। भग्नोरुं यत्र राजानं दुर्योधनममर्षणम्॥ (BORI 1.2.178)
Next, I will describe the terrible Sauptika Book, in which Duryodhana the king, unyielding, lay with a broken thigh.
व्यपयातेषु पार्थेषु त्रयस्तेऽभ्याययू रथाः। कृतवर्मा कृपो द्रौणिः सायाह्ने रुधिरोक्षिताः॥ (BORI 1.2.179)
After the Pāṇḍavas had withdrawn, those three—Kṛtavarmā, Kṛpa, and Aśvatthāman—came in their chariots at dusk, spattered with blood.
समेत्य ददृशुर्भूमौ पतितं रणमूर्धनि। (NIL 1.2.293; KUM 1.2.294)
Having come together, they saw (someone) fallen on the ground on the battlefield.
प्रतिजज्ञे दृढक्रोधो द्रौणिर्यत्र महारथः। अहत्वा सर्वपाञ्चालान्धृष्टद्युम्नपुरोगमान्। पाण्डवांश्च सहामात्यान्न विमोक्ष्यामि दंशनम्॥ (BORI 1.2.180)
There, firm in his wrath, Droṇa's son, the great warrior, vowed: "Without killing all the Pāñcālas headed by Dhṛṣṭadyumna, and the Pāṇḍavas along with their ministers, I shall not lay aside my weapon."
यत्रैव मुक्त्वा राजानमपक्रम्य त्रयो रथाः। सूर्यास्तमनवेलायामासेदुस्ते महद्वनम्॥ (NIL 1.2.295; KUM 1.2.296)
Exactly there, after releasing the king and departing, the three chariots reached the great forest at sunset.
न्यग्रोधस्याथ महतो यत्राधस्ताद्व्यवस्थिताः। ततः काकान्बहून्रात्रौ दृष्ट्वोलूकेन हिंसितान्॥ (NIL 1.2.296; KUM 1.2.297)
Then, beneath a large banyan tree where they had settled, seeing that many crows had been killed by an owl during the night...
द्रौणिः क्रोधसमाविष्टः पितुर्वधमनुस्मरन्। पाञ्चालानां प्रसुप्तानां वधं प्रति मनो दधे॥ (NIL 1.2.297; KUM 1.2.298)
Aśvatthāman, filled with rage and remembering the killing of his father, set his mind on the slaughter of the sleeping Pāñcālas.
गत्वा च शिबिरद्वारि दुर्दृशं तत्र राक्षसम्। घोररूपमपश्यत्स दिवामावृत्य धिष्ठिरम्॥ (NIL 1.2.298; KUM 1.2.299)
And having gone to the camp entrance, he saw there a terrible-looking rākṣasa of fearsome form, who was obscuring the daylight and stood immovable.
तेन व्याघातमस्त्राणां क्रियमाणमवेक्ष्य च। द्रौणिर्यत्र विरूपाक्षं रुद्रमाराध्य सत्वरः॥ (NIL 1.2.299; KUM 1.2.300)
Having seen that one's obstruction of the weapons being performed, the son of Droṇa—who had quickly worshipped Rudra, Virūpākṣa—at that place...
प्रसुप्तान्निशि विश्वस्तान्यत्र ते पुरुषर्षभाः। पाञ्चालान्सपरीवाराञ्जघ्नुर्द्रौणिपुरोगमाः॥ (BORI 1.2.181)
Where those foremost of men, the Pañchālas, were sleeping at night, trusting, they—led by Aśvatthāman—slaughtered them together with their retinues.
कृतवर्मणा च सहितः कृपेण च निजघ्निवान्। (NIL 1.2.301; KUM 1.2.302)
Together with Kṛtavarman and Kṛpa, he struck them down.
यत्रामुच्यन्त पार्थास्ते पञ्च कृष्णबलाश्रयात्। सात्यकिश्च महेष्वासः शेषाश्च निधनं गताः॥ (BORI 1.2.182)
Where those five sons of Pāṇḍu who took refuge in Kṛṣṇa were released, and Sātyaki the mighty archer and the others met their end...
पाञ्चालानां प्रसुप्तानां यत्र द्रोणसुताद्वधः॥ (NIL 1.2.302; KUM 1.2.303)
when the Pāñcālas were slaughtered by Droṇa's son as they slept,
धृष्टद्युम्नस्य सूतेन पाण्डवेषु निवेदितः। (NIL 1.2.303; KUM 1.2.304)
It was reported to the Pāṇḍavas by Dhṛṣṭadyumna's charioteer.
द्रौपदी पुत्रशोकार्ता पितृभ्रातृवधार्दिता। कृतानशनसङ्कल्पा यत्र भर्तृनुपाविशत्॥ (BORI 1.2.183)
Draupadī, afflicted by grief for her sons and distressed by the murder of her father and brothers, having undertaken a vow to fast, sat down by her husbands there.
द्रौपदीवचनाद्यत्र भीमो भीमपराक्रमः।
where Bhima, of terrible strength, at Draupadi's words,
प्रियं तस्याश्चिकीर्षन्वै गदामादाय वीर्यवान्। (NIL 1.2.305; KUM 1.2.306)
Desiring to do what would please her, the mighty one took up his mace.
अन्वधावत सङ्क्रुद्धो भारद्वाजं गुरोः सुतम्॥ (BORI 1.2.184)
Very angry, he ran after the teacher's son, Bharadvāja's son.
भीमसेनभयाद्यत्र दैवेनाभिप्रचोदितः। अपाण्डवायेति रुषा द्रौणिरस्त्रमवासृजत्॥ (BORI 1.2.185)
Where, urged on by fate and out of fear of Bhimasena, Drona's son angrily released the weapon, saying, 'against the non-Pandavas.'
मैवमित्यब्रवीत्कृष्णः शमयंस्तस्य तद्वचः। यत्रास्त्रमस्त्रेण च तच्छमयामास फाल्गुनः॥ (BORI 1.2.186)
“Not so,” said Kṛṣṇa, calming his words; and there, Phālguna (Arjuna) neutralized that missile with his own missile.
द्रौणेश्च द्रोहबुद्धित्वं वीक्ष्य पापात्मनस्तदा। (NIL 1.2.308; KUM 1.2.309)
Then, having perceived the hostile intent of Droṇa's son, that wicked-souled one...
द्रौणिद्वैपायनादीनां शापाश्चान्योन्यकारिताः। तोयकर्मणि सर्वेषां राज्ञामुदकदानिके॥ (BORI 1.2.187)
Also, the curses mutually inflicted by Drona's son, Vyasa, and others, during the water-rite—the offering of water for all the kings.
गूढोत्पन्नस्य चाख्यानं कर्णस्य पृथयात्मनः। सुतस्यैतदिह प्रोक्तं दशमं पर्व सौप्तिकम्॥ (BORI 1.2.188)
Here is told the story of Karna—Pritha's son, the one born in secret; this is the tenth book, called the Sauptika.
अष्टादशास्मिन्नध्यायाः पर्वण्युक्ता महात्मना। श्लोकाग्रमत्र कथितं शतान्यष्टौ तथैव च॥ (BORI 1.2.189)
Eighteen chapters in this book are stated by the great-souled one; here, the foremost verses—eight hundred—are also mentioned.
श्लोकाश्च सप्ततिः प्रोक्ता यथावदभिसङ्ख्यया। सौप्तिकैषीकसम्बन्धे पर्वण्यमितबुद्धिना॥ (BORI 1.2.190)
And seventy verses are stated, properly enumerated, relating to the Sauptika and Aishika sections, by the wise.
अत ऊर्ध्वमिदं प्राहुः स्त्रीपर्व करुणोदयम्।
After this, they call this the Strī-parvan, the arising of sorrow.
पुत्रशोकाभिसन्तप्तः प्रज्ञाचक्षुर्नराधिपः। कृष्णोपनीतां यत्रासावायसीं प्रतिमां दृढाम्॥ (NIL 1.2.313; KUM 1.2.314)
The wise king, consumed by grief for his son, where that solid iron statue, brought by Kṛṣṇa, was...
भीमसेनद्रोहबुद्धिर्धृतराष्ट्रो बभञ्ज ह। तथा शोकाभितप्तस्य धृतराष्ट्रस्य धीमतः॥ (NIL 1.2.314; KUM 1.2.315)
Dhritarashtra, whose mind was hostile toward Bhimasena, broke it indeed—thus, for wise Dhritarashtra, tormented by grief.
संसारदहनं बुद्ध्या हेतुभिर्मोक्षदर्शनैः। विदुरेण च यत्रास्य राज्ञ आश्वासनं कृतम्॥ (NIL 1.2.315; KUM 1.2.316)
Where Vidura, by his insight and with reasons drawn from the teachings of liberation, offered consolation to the king tormented by the fires of worldly existence.
धृतराष्ट्रस्य चात्रैव कौरवायोधनं तथा। सान्तःपुरस्य गमनं शोकार्तस्य प्रकीर्तितम्॥ (NIL 1.2.316; KUM 1.2.317)
Here too is recounted Dhritarashtra’s departure with the Kaurava army and his inner court, as he was stricken with grief.
विलापो वीरपत्नीनां यत्रातिकरुणः स्मृतः। क्रोधावेशः प्रसादश्च गान्धारीधृतराष्ट्रयोः॥ (BORI 1.2.191)
where the lamentation of the heroes' wives, remembered as extremely poignant, the intensity of anger and reconciliation of Gandhari and Dhritarashtra—
यत्र तान्क्षत्रियाञ्शूरान्दिष्टान्ताननिवर्तिनः। पुत्रान्भ्रातृन्पितृंश्चैव ददृशुर्निहतान्रणे॥ (BORI 1.2.192)
where they saw those valiant, unflinching Kshatriyas—sons, brothers, and fathers—slain in battle.
पुत्रपौत्रवधार्तायास्तथात्रैव प्रकीर्तिता। गान्धार्याश्चापि कृष्णेन क्रोधोपशमनक्रिया॥ (NIL 1.2.319; KUM 1.2.320)
Also here is mentioned the act by Kṛṣṇa of calming the anger of Gāndhārī, who was afflicted by the slaughter of her sons and grandsons.
यत्र राजा महाप्राज्ञः सर्वधर्मभृतां वरः। राज्ञां तानि शरीराणि दाहयामास शास्त्रतः॥ (BORI 1.2.193)
Where the king, most wise and the best among all upholders of righteousness, caused the bodies of the kings to be burned according to the prescribed rites.
सुतस्यैतदिह प्रोक्तं व्यासेन परमर्षिणा। (NIL 1.2.322; KUM 1.2.323)
This was narrated here by Vyāsa, the supreme sage, to the Sūta.
एतदेकादशं प्रोक्तं पर्वातिकरुणं महत्। सप्तविंशतिरध्यायाः पर्वण्यस्मिन्नुदाहृताः॥ (BORI 1.2.194)
This, the eleventh parvan, a great and exceedingly moving one, has been described; in this parvan, twenty-seven chapters are included.
श्लोकाः सप्तशतं चात्र पञ्चसप्ततिरुच्यते। सङ्ख्यया भारताख्यानं कर्त्रा ह्यत्र महात्मना। प्रणीतं सज्जनमनोवैक्लव्याश्रुप्रवर्तकम्॥ (BORI 1.2.195)
Here, it is said that there are seven hundred and seventy-five verses in number in the Bhārata narrative composed by the great-souled author—causing tears to flow from the distress of good people’s hearts.
अतः परं शान्तिपर्व द्वादशं बुद्धिवर्धनम्। यत्र निर्वेदमापन्नो धर्मराजो युधिष्ठिरः। घातयित्वा पितृन्भ्रातृन्पुत्रान्सम्बन्धिबान्धवान्॥ (BORI 1.2.196)
Then follows the Śānti Parvan, the twelfth, which increases wisdom, where King Yudhishthira, having fallen into despondency after having caused the death of fathers, brothers, sons, relatives, and kinsmen...
शान्तिपर्वणि धर्माश्च व्याख्याताः शरतल्पिकाः। राजभिर्वेदितव्या ये सम्यङ्नयबुभुत्सुभिः॥ (BORI 1.2.197)
In the Śāntiparvan, teachings on righteousness are explained by the one lying on the bed of arrows; these are to be properly understood by kings who wish to master good governance.
आपद्धर्माश्च तत्रैव कालहेतुप्रदर्शकाः। यान्बुद्ध्वा पुरुषः सम्यक्सर्वज्ञत्वमवाप्नुयात्। मोक्षधर्माश्च कथिता विचित्रा बहुविस्तराः॥ (BORI 1.2.198)
There, too, the rules of conduct for times of adversity are given, making clear the causes and conditions, which, if properly understood, enable a person to attain complete knowledge; and the varied and extensive doctrines of liberation have also been set forth.
द्वादशं पर्व निर्दिष्टमेतत्प्राज्ञजनप्रियम्। पर्वण्यत्र परिज्ञेयमध्यायानां शतत्रयम्। त्रिंशच्चैव तथाध्याया नव चैव तपोधनाः॥ (BORI 1.2.199)
This, the twelfth book—which is beloved of the wise—is described here, O ascetic, as comprising three hundred thirty-nine chapters.
श्लोकानां तु सहस्राणि कीर्तितानि चतुर्दश। पञ्च चैव शतान्याहुः पञ्चविंशतिसङ्ख्यया॥ (BORI 1.2.200)
But (within it), they say there are fourteen thousand verses and five hundred more, making a total of twenty-five added to that count.
अत ऊर्ध्वं तु विज्ञेयमानुशासनमुत्तमम्। यत्र प्रकृतिमापन्नः श्रुत्वा धर्मविनिश्चयम्। भीष्माद्भागीरथीपुत्रात्कुरुराजो युधिष्ठिरः॥ (BORI 1.2.201)
After this, one should know of the excellent Anushasana Parva, in which the Kuru king Yudhishthira, having returned to his natural state after hearing the decision on dharma from Bhishma, the son of Bhagirathi...
व्यवहारोऽत्र कार्त्स्न्येन धर्मार्थीयो निदर्शितः। विविधानां च दानानां फलयोगाः पृथग्विधाः॥ (BORI 1.2.202)
Here, conduct in its entirety, as it relates to law and purpose, has been set forth, as well as the different kinds of results for various sorts of gifts.
तथा पात्रविशेषाश्च दानानां च परो विधिः। आचारविधियोगश्च सत्यस्य च परा गतिः॥ (BORI 1.2.203)
Likewise, the distinctions of recipients, the supreme rule regarding gifts, the application of codes of conduct, and the highest goal of truth.
महाभाग्यं गवां चैव ब्राह्मणानां तथैव च। रहस्यं चैव धर्माणां देशकालोपसंहितम्॥ (NIL 1.2.335; KUM 1.2.336)
The great fortune of cows and likewise of brahmins, and the secret of dharmas as connected with place and time,
एतत्सुबहुवृत्तान्तमुत्तमं चानुशासनम्। भीष्मस्यात्रैव सम्प्राप्तिः स्वर्गस्य परिकीर्तिता॥ (BORI 1.2.204)
This excellent and extensive instruction of Bhishma, with its many episodes, here also describes Bhishma's attainment of heaven.
एतत्त्रयोदशं पर्व धर्मनिश्चयकारकम्। अध्यायानां शतं चात्र षट्चत्वारिंशदेव च। श्लोकानां तु सहस्राणि षट्सप्तैव शतानि च॥ (BORI 1.2.205)
This thirteenth book, which determines dharma, contains one hundred and forty-six chapters, and as for the verses, there are six thousand and seven hundred.
ततोऽश्वमेधिकं नाम पर्व प्रोक्तं चतुर्दशम्। तत्संवर्तमरुत्तीयं यत्राख्यानमनुत्तमम्॥ (BORI 1.2.206)
Then comes the fourteenth book, called the Ashvamedhika, in which occurs the unsurpassed tale of Samvarta and Marutta.
सुवर्णकोशसम्प्राप्तिर्जन्म चोक्तं परिक्षितः। दग्धस्यास्त्राग्निना पूर्वं कृष्णात्सञ्जीवनं पुनः॥ (BORI 1.2.207)
The acquisition of the golden treasury, the birth of Parikṣit, how he was previously burned by the fire of the weapon, and his restoration to life by Kṛṣṇa are described here.
चर्यायां हयमुत्सृष्टं पाण्डवस्यानुगच्छतः। तत्र तत्र च युद्धानि राजपुत्रैरमर्षणैः॥ (BORI 1.2.208)
During the journey, as the horse let loose by the Pandava was being followed, in various places there were battles with implacable princes.
चित्राङ्गदायाः पुत्रेण पुत्रिकाया धनञ्जयः। सङ्ग्रामे बभ्रुवाहेन संशयं चात्र दर्शितः।
In battle, Dhanañjaya faced danger here from Babruvāhana, the son (grandson) of Citrāngadā's daughter.
सुदर्शनं तथाऽऽख्यानं वैष्णवं धर्ममेव च। (KUM 1.2.343)
the tale of Sudarshana, as well as the Vaishnava account and the law
अश्वमेधे महायज्ञे नकुलाख्यानमेव च॥ (BORI 1.2.209)
and the tale of Nakula in the great horse sacrifice.
इत्याश्वमेधिकं पर्व प्रोक्तमेतन्महाद्भुतम्। अत्राध्यायशतं त्रिंशत्त्रयोऽध्यायाश्च शब्दिताः॥ (BORI 1.2.210)
Thus this marvelous Aśvamedhika Parvan has been described; here one hundred and thirty-three chapters are declared.
त्रीणि श्लोकसहस्राणि तावन्त्येव शतानि च। विंशतिश्च तथा श्लोकाः सङ्ख्यातास्तत्त्वदर्शिना॥ (BORI 1.2.211)
There are three thousand verses, and just as many hundreds, plus twenty verses as well—these were counted by the seer of truth.
तत आश्रमवासाक्यं पर्व पञ्चदशं स्मृतम्। यत्र राज्यं परित्यज्य गान्धारीसहितो नृपः। धृतराष्ट्राश्रमपदं विदुरश्च जगाम ह॥ (BORI 1.2.212)
Therefore, the fifteenth parvan is considered to be called Āśramavāsa, in which the king Dhṛtarāṣṭra, having renounced the kingdom together with Gāndhārī, and Vidura, went to the āśrama stage.
यं दृष्ट्वा प्रस्थितं साध्वी पृथाप्यनुययौ तदा। पुत्रराज्यं परित्यज्य गुरुशुश्रूषणे रता॥ (BORI 1.2.213)
Seeing him depart, the virtuous Kunti also then followed, renouncing her son's kingdom, devoted to serving her elders.
यत्र राजा हतान्पुत्रान्पौत्रानन्यांश्च पार्थिवान्। लोकान्तरगतान्वीरानपश्यत्पुनरागतान्॥ (BORI 1.2.214)
where the king saw his sons, grandsons, and other royal heroes—those fallen kings who had gone to another world—now returned again
ऋषेः प्रसादात्कृष्णस्य दृष्ट्वाश्चर्यमनुत्तमम्। त्यक्त्वा शोकं सदारश्च सिद्धिं परमिकां गतः॥ (BORI 1.2.215)
By the sage's grace, having witnessed Krishna's unsurpassed wonder, he abandoned his grief and, together with his consorts, attained the highest perfection.
यत्र धर्मं समाश्रित्य विदुरः सुगतिं गतः। सञ्जयश्च महामात्रो विद्वान्गावल्गणिर्वशी॥ (BORI 1.2.216)
Where, having resorted to dharma, Vidura attained the highest path, and where Sañjaya, the wise and self-controlled chief minister, son of Gavālgani, [also attained]...
ददर्श नारदं यत्र धर्मराजो युधिष्ठिरः। नारदाच्चैव शुश्राव वृष्णीनां कदनं महत्॥ (BORI 1.2.217)
There, Dharmarāja Yudhiṣṭhira saw Nārada, and also heard from Nārada about the great destruction of the Vṛṣṇis.
एतदाश्रमवासाख्यं पूर्वोक्तं सुमहाद्भुतम्। द्विचत्वारिंशदध्यायाः पर्वैतदभिसङ्ख्यया॥ (BORI 1.2.218)
This most wonderful section, called Āśramavāsa and previously described, according to the reckoning consists of forty-two chapters.
सहस्रमेकं श्लोकानां पञ्च श्लोकशतानि च। षडेव च तथा श्लोकाः सङ्ख्यातास्तत्त्वदर्शिना॥ (BORI 1.2.219)
One thousand and one verses, and five hundred, and also just six verses—this is the count given by the knower of truth.
अतः परं निबोधेदं मौसलं पर्व दारुणम्। यत्र ते पुरुषव्याघ्राः शस्त्रस्पर्शसहा युधि। ब्रह्मदण्डविनिष्पिष्टाः समीपे लवणाम्भसः॥ (BORI 1.2.220)
Therefore, next, hear this terrible Mausala Book, in which those tigers among men, capable of withstanding weapons in battle, were crushed by Brahma's rod near the salt sea.
आपाने पानगलिता दैवेनाभिप्रचोदिताः। एरकारूपिभिर्वज्रैर्निजघ्नुरितरेतरम्॥ (BORI 1.2.221)
In the drinking hall, intoxicated with liquor and driven by fate, they struck each other with clublike reeds as deadly weapons.
यत्र सर्वक्षयं कृत्वा तावुभौ रामकेशवौ। नातिचक्रमतुः कालं प्राप्तं सर्वहरं समम्॥ (BORI 1.2.222)
Where, having brought about complete destruction, those two—Rāma and Keśava—did not transcend the all-devouring time that had now come equally for all.
यत्रार्जुनो द्वारवतीमेत्य वृष्णिविनाकृताम्। दृष्ट्वा विषादमगमत्परां चार्तिं नरर्षभः॥ (BORI 1.2.223)
When Arjuna went to Dvaravati and saw it bereft of the Vrishnis, the foremost among men fell into profound sorrow and great distress.
स सत्कृत्य यदुश्रेष्ठं मातुलं शौरिमात्मनः। ददर्श यदुवीराणामापाने वैशसं महत्॥ (BORI 1.2.224)
After honoring Śauri, his maternal uncle and the foremost among the Yadus, he saw the great massacre of the Yadu heroes in the assembly hall.
शरीरं वासुदेवस्य रामस्य च महात्मनः। संस्कारं लम्भयामास वृष्णीनां च प्रधानतः॥ (BORI 1.2.225)
He had the funeral rites performed for the bodies of Vāsudeva and the great-souled Rāma, and especially for the leading Vṛṣṇis.
स वृद्धबालमादाय द्वारवत्यास्ततो जनम्। ददर्शापदि कष्टायां गाण्डीवस्य पराभवम्॥ (BORI 1.2.226)
He took the old and the young, and, after that, the people from Dvārakā; in distress and calamity, he saw the defeat of the Gāṇḍīva.
सर्वेषां चैव दिव्यानामस्त्राणामप्रसन्नताम्। नाशं वृष्णिकलत्राणां प्रभावानामनित्यताम्॥ (BORI 1.2.227)
...the unwillingness of all the divine weapons, the destruction of the Vrṣṇi women, the impermanence of powers...
दृष्ट्वा निर्वेदमापन्नो व्यासवाक्यप्रचोदितः। धर्मराजं समासाद्य संन्यासं समरोचयेत्॥ (BORI 1.2.228)
Having witnessed disillusionment, and urged by Vyāsa's words, he approached Dharmarāja and found renunciation agreeable.
इत्येतन्मौसलं पर्व षोडशं परिकीर्तितम्। अध्यायाष्टौ समाख्याताः श्लोकानां च शतत्रयम्॥ (BORI 1.2.229)
Thus, the Mausala Parvan, the sixteenth, is recounted: eight chapters are described, and three hundred verses.
श्लोकानां विंशतिश्चैव सङ्ख्याता तत्त्वदर्शिना। (NIL 1.2.364; KUM 1.2.365)
And, the number of verses is reckoned as twenty by one who perceives the truth.
महाप्रस्थानिकं तस्मादूर्ध्वं सप्तदशं स्मृतम्। यत्र राज्यं परित्यज्य पाण्डवाः पुरुषर्षभाः। द्रौपद्या सहिता देव्या सिद्धिं परमिकां गताः॥ (BORI 1.2.230)
After that is the seventeenth book, the Mahāprasthānika, in which the Pāṇḍavas—bulls among men—together with the noble queen Draupadī, having given up the kingdom, attained the supreme perfection.
यत्र तेऽग्निं ददृशिरे लौहित्यं प्राप्य सागरम्। यत्राग्निना चोदितश्च पार्थस्तस्मै महात्मने॥ (NIL 1.2.366; KUM 1.2.367)
where they saw Agni, after reaching the Lauhitya and the ocean, and where Arjuna, prompted by Agni, [gave] to that great-souled one…
ददौ सम्पूज्य तद्दिव्यं गाण्डीवं धनुरुत्तमम्। यत्र भ्रातॄन्निपतितान्द्रौपदीं च युधिष्ठिरः॥ (NIL 1.2.367; KUM 1.2.368)
Having duly honored him, he gave that divine, excellent bow, Gāṇḍīva, at the place where Yudhiṣṭhira saw his fallen brothers and Draupadī.
दृष्ट्वा हित्वा जगामैव सर्वाननवलोकयन्। एतत्सप्तदशं पर्व महाप्रस्थानिकं स्मृतम्॥ (NIL 1.2.368; KUM 1.2.369)
Having seen and abandoned them all, he went away without looking back. This is known as the seventeenth book, the Mahāprasthānika.
अत्राध्यायास्त्रयः प्रोक्ताः श्लोकानां च शतं तथा। विंशतिश्च तथा श्लोकाः सङ्ख्यातास्तत्त्वदर्शिना॥ (BORI 1.2.231)
Here, three chapters are mentioned, as well as one hundred and twenty verses as counted by one who knows the truth.
स्वर्गपर्व ततो ज्ञेयं दिव्यं यत्तदमानुषम्।
After that, the Svargaparvan should be understood—divine, that which is not human.
प्राप्तं दैवरथं स्वर्गान्नेष्टवान्यत्र धर्मराट्॥ (NIL 1.2.370; KUM 1.2.371)
Dharmaraja brought down from heaven the divine chariot he had attained.
आरोदुं सुमहाप्राज्ञ आनृशंस्याच्छुना विना। तामस्या विचलां ज्ञात्वा स्थितिं धर्मे महात्मनः॥ (NIL 1.2.371; KUM 1.2.372)
The greatly wise one refrained from weeping out of compassion, since, after realizing her unsteady condition with regard to dharma toward the great-souled one, she was left without the dog.
श्वरूपं यत्र तत्त्यक्त्वा धर्मेणासौ समन्वितः। स्वर्गं प्राप्तः स च तथा यातना विपुला भृशम्॥ (NIL 1.2.372; KUM 1.2.373)
Where, having abandoned his own form and being endowed with righteousness, he attained heaven—and likewise underwent great and intense torments.
देवदूतेन नरकं यत्र व्याजेन दर्शितम्। शुश्राव यत्र धर्मात्मा भ्रातॄणां करुणा गिरः॥ (NIL 1.2.373; KUM 1.2.374)
where hell was shown by the divine messenger through a pretext, and where the righteous one heard the compassionate cries of his brothers
निदेशे वर्तमानानां देशे तत्रैव वर्तताम्। अनुदर्शितश्च धर्मेण देवराज्ञा च पाण्डवः॥ (NIL 1.2.374; KUM 1.2.375)
Let those who abide by the command remain right there in that place; and the Pāṇḍava was shown, through righteousness, by the king of the gods, as not being present.
आप्लुत्याकाशगङ्गायां देहं त्यक्त्वा स मानुषम्। स्वधर्मनिर्जितं स्थानं स्वर्गे प्राप्य स धर्मराट्॥ (NIL 1.2.375; KUM 1.2.376)
Having bathed in the celestial Ganga, abandoning his human body, that king of righteousness reached the place in heaven won by his own righteous conduct.
मुमुदे पूजितः सर्वैः सेन्द्रैः सुरगणैः सह। एतदष्टादशं पर्व प्रोक्तं व्यासेन धीमता॥ (NIL 1.2.376; KUM 1.2.377)
He was delighted, honoured by all, together with Indra and the hosts of gods. This eighteenth Parvan has been recited by the wise Vyāsa.
अध्यायाः पञ्च सङ्ख्याताः पर्वैतदभिसङ्ख्यया। श्लोकानां द्वे शते चैव प्रसङ्ख्याते तपोधनाः॥ (BORI 1.2.232)
There are five chapters counted in this book by that reckoning, and two hundred verses have indeed been enumerated, O ascetics rich in austerity.
नव श्लोकास्तथैवान्ये सङ्ख्याताः परमर्षिणा। (NIL 1.2.378; KUM 1.2.379)
Likewise, nine other verses were counted by the supreme sage.
अष्टादशैवमेतानि पर्वाण्युक्तान्यशेषतः। खिलेषु हरिवंशश्च भविष्यच्च प्रकीर्तितम्॥ (BORI 1.2.233)
Thus, these eighteen books have been stated in full; in the appendices, the Harivaṃśa and the Bhaviṣya are also described.
दश श्लोकसहस्राणि विंशच्छ्लोकशतानि च॥ (NIL 1.2.379; KUM 1.2.380)
ten thousand verses and twenty hundred verses
खिलेषु हरिवंशे च सङ्ख्यातानि महर्षिणा। (NIL 1.2.380; KUM 1.2.381)
They have been enumerated in the supplementary portions and in the Harivaṃśa by the great sage.
एतदखिलमाख्यातं भारतं पर्वसङ्ग्रहात्। अष्टादश समाजग्मुरक्षौहिण्यो युयुत्सया। तन्महद्दारुणं युद्धमहान्यष्टादशाभवत्॥ (BORI 1.2.234)
This entire Mahabharata has been recounted from the collection of parvas. Eighteen akṣauhiṇī battle divisions assembled for war. That great and terrible war raged for eighteen days.
यो विद्याच्चतुरो वेदान्साङ्गोपनिषदान्द्विजः। न चाख्यानमिदं विद्यान्नैव स स्याद्विचक्षणः॥ (BORI 1.2.235)
A twice-born who knows all four Vedas together with their supplements and the Upanishads, but does not know this story, indeed would not be truly wise.
अर्थशास्त्रमिदं प्रोक्तं धर्मशास्त्रमिदं महत्। कामशास्त्रमिदं प्रोक्तं व्यासेनामितबुद्धिना॥ (NIL 1.2.383; KUM 1.2.384)
Here is taught the science of wealth, here the great science of righteousness, here the science of desire — all taught by Vyāsa of boundless intellect.
श्रुत्वा त्विदमुपाख्यानं श्राव्यमन्यन्न रोचते। पुंस्कोकिलरुतं श्रुत्वा रूक्षा ध्वाङ्क्षस्य वागिव॥ (BORI 1.2.236)
But having heard this narrative, no other tale pleases one, just as, after hearing the song of the male cuckoo, the harsh voice of the crow does not.
इतिहासोत्तमादस्माज्जायन्ते कविबुद्धयः। पञ्चभ्य इव भूतेभ्यो लोकसंविधयस्त्रयः॥ (BORI 1.2.237)
From this excellent epic arise the insights of poets, just as the three forms of the world arise from the five elements.
अस्याख्यानस्य विषये पुराणं वर्तते द्विजाः। अन्तरिक्षस्य विषये प्रजा इव चतुर्विधाः॥ (BORI 1.2.238)
O brāhmaṇas, in the subject matter of this narrative, the Purāṇa exists, just as beings of four kinds exist in the intermediate space.
क्रियागुणानां सर्वेषामिदमाख्यानमाश्रयः। इन्द्रियाणां समस्तानां चित्रा इव मनःक्रियाः॥ (BORI 1.2.239)
This narrative is the foundation of all qualities and actions; the activities of the mind, like the varied functions of all the senses.
अनाश्रित्यैतदाख्यानं कथा भुवि न विद्यते। आहारमनपाश्रित्य शरीरस्येव धारणम्॥ (BORI 1.2.240)
Without relying on this account, a story does not exist in the world, just as the body cannot be sustained without food.
इदं सर्वैः कविवरैराख्यानमुपजीव्यते। उदयप्रेप्सुभिर्भृत्यैरभिजात इवेश्वरः॥ (BORI 1.2.241)
All eminent poets make this narrative their basis, just as dependents seeking advancement rely on a noble lord.
अस्य काव्यस्य कवयो न समर्था विशेषणे। साधोरिव गृहस्थस्य शेषास्त्रय इवाश्रमाः॥ (NIL 1.2.390; KUM 1.2.391)
Poets are not capable of adequately describing this poem, just as, for a virtuous householder, the other three āśramas are inadequate by comparison.
धर्मे मतिर्भवतु वः सततोत्थितानां स ह्येक एव परलोकगतस्य बन्धुः। अर्थाः स्त्रियश्च निपुणैरपि सेव्यमाना नैवाप्तभावमुपयान्ति न च स्थिरत्वम्॥ (NIL 1.2.391; KUM 1.2.392)
Let your mind be steadfast in righteousness, you who are ever vigilant, for that alone is the true companion of one who has gone to the next world; riches and women, even when attentively pursued by the clever, never bring true fulfilment or lasting security.
द्वैपायनौष्ठपुटनिःसृतमप्रमेयं; पुण्यं पवित्रमथ पापहरं शिवं च। यो भारतं समधिगच्छति वाच्यमानं; किं तस्य पुष्करजलैरभिषेचनेन॥ (BORI 1.2.242)
Whoever fully understands the Mahābhārata, the immeasurable, holy, purifying, sin-removing, and auspicious work that emerged from the lips of Vyāsa as it is being recited—what purpose for him is served by ceremonial bathing with waters of the sacred lotus-lake?
यदह्नात्कुरुते पाप ब्राह्मणस्त्विन्द्रियैश्चरन्। महाभारतमाख्याय सन्ध्यां मुच्यति पश्चिमाम्॥ (NIL 1.2.393; KUM 1.2.394)
Whatever sin a brahmin commits by day through the activities of the senses, by reciting the Mahabharata at evening twilight, he is freed from it.
यद्रात्रौ कुरुते पापं कर्मणा मनसा गिरा। महाभारतमाख्याय पूर्वां सन्ध्यां प्रमुच्यते॥ (NIL 1.2.394; KUM 1.2.395)
Whatever sin he commits during the night—by deed, mind, or speech—he is released from it by reciting the Mahabharata at the morning twilight.
यो गोशतं कनकशृङ्गमयं ददाति विप्राय वेदविदुषे च बहुश्रुताय। पुण्यां च भारतकथां शृणुयाच्च नित्यं तुल्यं फलं भवति तस्य च तस्य चैव॥ (NIL 1.2.395; KUM 1.2.396)
Whoever gives a hundred cows with golden horns to a Brahmin learned in the Vedas and well-studied, and whoever also listens every day to the sacred tale of the Bharata—both receive the same reward.
आख्यानं तदिदमनुत्तमं महार्थं; विन्यस्तं महदिह पर्वसङ्ग्रहेण। श्रुत्वादौ भवति नृणां सुखावगाहं; विस्तीर्णं लवणजलं यथा प्लवेन॥ (BORI 1.2.243)
This unsurpassed and profound narration has been presented here, organized through the great collection of parvas; when heard at first, it brings people a joyful immersion, just as, with a boat, one can enter the vast salty ocean.