Mahābhārata · Adhyāya 12.138
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12.138.1
सर्वत्र बुद्धिः कथिता श्रेष्ठा ते भरतर्षभ ।
अनागता तथोत्पन्ना दीर्घसूत्रा विनाशिनी ॥ १२.१३८.१ ॥
O bull of the Bharatas, you have said that wisdom is best everywhere: the wisdom that looks to the future, the wisdom that arises in the present, and the wisdom that delays, which is ruinous.
12.138.2
तदिच्छामि परां बुद्धिं श्रोतुं ते भरतर्षभ ।
यथा राजा न मुह्येत शत्रुभिः परिपीडितः ॥ १२.१३८.२ ॥
Therefore, O bull of the Bharatas, I wish to hear from you that supreme wisdom, so that a king oppressed by enemies would not be deluded.
12.138.3
…याज्ञं सर्वशास्त्रविशारदम् ।
पृच्छ… तन्मे व्याख्यातुमर्हसि ॥ १२.१३८.३ ॥
…Yājña, who is skilled in all the scriptures — ask him… you are worthy to explain that to me.
12.138.4
शत्रुभिबहु…था मुच्येत पार्थिवः ।
एतदिच्छाम्य…र्वमेव यथाविधि ॥ १२.१३८.४ ॥
…from many enemies the king might be freed. This I wish to hear, as it should be done.
12.138.5
विषमस्थं हि राजा…त्रवः परिपन्थिनः ।
बहवोऽप्येकमुद्धर्तुं यतन्ते पूर्वतापिताः ॥ १२.१३८.५ ॥
For a king placed in a difficult position… his enemies and rivals are many; though previously afflicted themselves, they strive together to raise up even one.
12.138.6
सर्वतः प्रार्थ्यमानेन दर्बलेन महाबलैः ।
एकेनैवासहायेन शक्यं स्थातुं भवेत्कथम् ॥ १२.१३८.६ ॥
How could a weak man, assailed on all sides by the very mighty, standing alone and without any helper, possibly hold his ground?
12.138.7
कथं मित्रमरिं चापि विन्देत भरतर्षभ ।
चेष्टितव्यं कथं चात्र शत्रोर्मित्रस्य चान्तरे ॥ १२.१३८.७ ॥
Bull of the Bharatas, how should one discern a friend and an enemy? And how should one conduct oneself between the enemy and the friend?
12.138.8
अजातलक्षणे राजन्नमित्रे मित्रतां गते ।
कथं नु पुरुषः कुर्यात्कृत्वा किं वा सुखी भवेत् ॥ १२.१३८.८ ॥
O king, when an enemy whose signs have not yet appeared has taken on the state of a friend, how should a man act? What, having done, may he become happy?
12.138.9
विग्रहं केन वा कुर्यात्संधिं वा केन योजयेत् ।
कथं वा शत्रुमध्यस्थो वर्तेत बलवानपि ॥ १२.१३८.९ ॥
By whom should one make war, or with whom should one bring about peace? And how should a strong man conduct himself while standing among enemies?
12.138.10
एतद्धै सर्वकृत्यानां परं कृत्यं नराधिप ।
नैतस्य कश्चिद्वक्ताऽस्ति श्रोता वाऽपि सुदुर्लभः ॥ १२.१३८.१० ॥
O lord of men, this is the supreme of all duties. There is no one who can speak it, and a listener to it is exceedingly rare.
12.138.11
ऋते पितामहाद्भीष्मात्सत्यसंधाज्जितेन्द्रियात् ।
तदन्वीक्ष्य महाभाग सर्वमेतद्ब्रवीहि मे ॥ १२.१३८.११ ॥
Except from the grandsire Bhīṣma, true to his vows and master of his senses, O greatly fortunate one, having considered this well, tell me all of it.
12.138.12
त्वद्युक्तोऽयमनुप्रश्नो युधिष्ठिर गुणोदयः ।
शृणु मे पुत्र कार्त्स्न्येन गुह्यमापत्सु भारत ॥ १२.१३८.१२ ॥
O Yudhiṣṭhira, this follow-up question fit for you is the rising of virtues. Listen to me in full, O son, O Bhārata, to what is secret in calamities.
12.138.13
अमित्रो मित्रतां याति मित्रं चापि प्रदुष्यति ।
सामर्थ्ययोगात्कार्याणामनित्या हि सदा गतिः ॥ १२.१३८.१३ ॥
An enemy becomes a friend, and a friend too is corrupted; for through the union of capacities in affairs, the course is always impermanent.
12.138.14
तस्माद्विश्वसितव्यं च विग्रहं च समाचरेत् ।
देशं कालं च विज्ञाय कार्याकार्यविनिश्चये ॥ १२.१३८.१४ ॥
Therefore one should trust, and also undertake conflict, but having known the place and the time, and having determined what should and should not be done.
12.138.15
संधातव्यं बुधैर्नित्यं व्यवस्य च हितार्थिभिः ।
अमित्रैरपि संधेयं प्राणा रक्ष्या हि भारत ॥ १२.१३८.१५ ॥
The wise should always make peace, and those who seek welfare should do so after determining; even with enemies peace should be made, for, O Bhārata, lives must be protected.
12.138.16
यो ह्यमित्रैर्नरैर्नित्यं न संदध्यादपण्डितः ।
न सोर्थं प्राप्नुयात्किंचित्फलान्यपि च भारत ॥ १२.१३८.१६ ॥
The unwise man who never makes peace with enemies obtains no advantage at all, and no fruits either, O Bhārata.
12.138.17
यस्त्वमित्रेण संधत्ते मित्रेण च विरुध्यते ।
अर्थयुक्तिं समालोक्य सुमहद्विन्दते फलम् ॥ १२.१३८.१७ ॥
He who makes peace with an enemy and is hostile to a friend, having carefully weighed the means of advantage, obtains a very great fruit.
12.138.18
अत्राप्युदाहरन्तीममितिहासं पुरातनम् ।
मार्जारस्य च संवादं न्यग्रोधे मूषिकस्य च ॥ १२.१३८.१८ ॥
Here too they cite this ancient story, the dialogue of the cat and the mouse at the banyan tree.
12.138.19
वने महति कस्मिंश्चिन्न्यग्रोधः सुमहानभूत् ।
लताजालपरिच्छन्नो नानाद्विजगणायुतः ॥ १२.१३८.१९ ॥
In some great forest there was a very large banyan tree, covered with a net of creepers and thronged with flocks of many kinds of birds.
12.138.20
स्कन्धवान्मेघसंकाशः शीतच्छायो मनोरमः ।
अरण्यमभितो जातस्तरुर्व्यालमृगायुतः ॥ १२.१३८.२० ॥
That tree, with its great trunk like a cloud, cool in its shade and delightful, grown all around the forest, was full of wild beasts and snakes.
12.138.21
तस्य मूलमुपाश्रित्य कृत्वा शतमुखं बिलम् ।
वसति स्म महाप्राज्ञः पलितो नाम मूषिकः ॥ १२.१३८.२१ ॥
Taking shelter at its root and making a burrow with a hundred openings, a very wise mouse named Palita used to dwell there.
12.138.22
शाखां तस्य समाश्रित्य वसति स्म सुखं तदा ।
लोमशो नाम मार्जारः सर्वसत्वावसादकः ॥ १२.१३८.२२ ॥
Taking shelter on its branch, a cat named Lomaśa then dwelt in comfort, a destroyer of all creatures.
12.138.23
तत्र त्वागत्य चण्डालो ह्यरण्यकृतकेतनः ।
युयोज यन्त्रमुन्माथं नित्यमस्तंगते रवौ ॥ १२.१३८.२३ ॥
Then the outcast hunter, who had marked his place in the forest, came there and set up a snare called unmātha every evening at sunset.
12.138.24
तत्र स्नायुमयान्पाशान्यथावत्संविधाय सः ।
गृहं गत्वा सुखं शेते प्रभातामेति शर्वरीम् ॥ १२.१३८.२४ ॥
Having properly set the nooses made of sinew there, he went home and lay down in comfort; the night passed and dawn came.
12.138.25
तत्र स्म नित्यं बध्यन्ते नक्तं बहुविधा मृगाः ।
कदाचिदत्र मार्जारः संप्रवृत्तो व्यबध्यत ॥ १२.१३८.२५ ॥
There, by night, many kinds of animals were always caught. Once a cat came there and was caught.
12.138.26
तस्मिन्बद्धे महाप्राणे शत्रौ नित्याततायिनि ।
तं कालं पलितो ज्ञात्वा प्रचचार सुनिर्भयः ॥ १२.१३८.२६ ॥
When that great-breathed, constantly murderous enemy was bound, the rat, knowing the time, moved about in perfect fearlessness.
12.138.27
तेनानुचरता तस्मिन्वते विश्वस्तचारिणा ।
भक्ष्यं मृगयमाणे नचिराद्दृष्टमामिषम् ॥ १२.१३८.२७ ॥
As he roamed in that practice, moving with confidence and seeking food, not long after he saw flesh.
12.138.28
स तमुन्माथमारुह्य तदामिषमभक्षयत् ।
तस्योपरि सपत्नस्य बद्धस्य मनसा हसन् ॥ १२.१३८.२८ ॥
He climbed up onto that netting and ate that flesh, laughing inwardly over the bound enemy above him.
12.138.29
आमिषे तु प्रसक्तः स कदाचितवलोकयन् ।
अपश्यदपरं घोरमात्मनो रिपुमागतम् ॥ १२.१३८.२९ ॥
But while he was absorbed in the flesh and looking about, he saw another terrible enemy of his own coming toward him.
12.138.30
शरप्रसूनसंकाशं महीविवरशायिनम् ।
सकुलं हरिकं नाम चपलं ताम्रलोचनम् ॥ १२.१३८.३० ॥
A creature named Harika, like an arrow-flower, lying in its burrow in the earth with its whole family, restless, copper-eyed.
12.138.31
तन मूषिकगन्धेन त्वरमाण उपागतम् ।
सक्ष्यार्थं लेलिहन्वक्रं भूमावूर्ध्वमुखः स्थितः ॥ १२.१३८.३१ ॥
He saw him, hastening up at the smell of a mouse, licking his crooked jaw for food, standing on the ground with face upturned.
12.138.32
…ाखागतमरिं चान्यमपश्यत्कोटरालयम् ।
सूलकं चन्द्रकं नाम वक्रतुण्डं दुरासदम् ॥ १२.१३८.३२ ॥
…he saw the enemy come to the branch, and another, dwelling in a hollow, named Sūlaka and Candraka, crooked-beaked, hard to approach.
12.138.33
पतस्य विषयं तस्य नकुलोलूकयोस्तथा ।
यथास्यासीदियं चिन्ता तत्प्राप्तस्य महद्भयम् ॥ १२.१३८.३३ ॥
In the domain of the one who fell, and likewise of the mongoose and the owl, as this anxiety was his, great fear was for him who had reached that state.
12.138.34
पपद्यस्यां सुकष्टायां मरणे समुपस्थिते ।
मन्ताद्भय उत्पन्ने कथं कार्यं मनीषिणा ॥ १२.१३८.३४ ॥
…in such a very distressful situation, when death had drawn near, …when fear had arisen, what should the wise one do?
12.138.35
तथा सर्वतो रुद्धः सर्वत्र भयकर्शितः ।
भवद्भयसंत्रस्तश्चक्रे च परमां मतिम् ॥ १२.१३८.३५ ॥
Thus surrounded on all sides, wasted by fear everywhere, terrified by the fear of worldly existence, he came to a supreme resolve.
12.138.36
आपद्विनाशभूयिष्ठं शङ्कनीयं हि जीवितम् ।
मन्तात्संशयः सोऽयं तस्मादापदुपस्थिता ॥ १२.१३८.३६ ॥
Life is full of calamity and destruction, truly to be feared; from deliberation this is doubt, therefore calamity has arisen.
12.138.37
गतं हि सहसा भूमिं नकुलो मामवाप्नुयात् ।
उलूकश्चेह तिष्ठन्तं मार्जारः पाशसंक्षयात् ॥ १२.१३८.३७ ॥
Suddenly the mongoose may come down to the ground and reach me, and the owl may reach the cat standing here, because the snare has been destroyed.
12.138.38
न त्वेवास्मद्विधः प्राज्ञः संमोहं गन्तुमर्हति ।
रिष्ये जीविते यत्नं यावदुच्छ्वासनिग्रहात् ॥ १२.१३८.३८ ॥
But a wise man like me should not fall into bewilderment; I will strive for life as long as my breath is not restrained.
12.138.39
न हि बुद्ध्याऽन्वितः प्राज्ञो नीतिशास्त्रविशारदः ।
निमज्जत्यापदं प्राप्य महतोऽर्थानवाप्य ह ॥ १२.१३८.३९ ॥
A wise man endowed with intelligence and skilled in the science of policy does not sink into danger, even after falling into it and having obtained great aims.
12.138.40
न त्वन्यामिह मार्जाराद्गतिं पश्यामि सांप्रतम् ।
विषमस्थो ह्ययं शत्रुः कृत्यं चास्य महन्मया ॥ १२.१३८.४० ॥
But now I see no other course than the cat; this enemy is in a difficult position, and the task he has to do is great for me.
12.138.41
जीवितार्थी कथं त्वद्य शत्रुभिः प्रार्थितस्त्रिभिः ।
प्राणहेतोरिमं मित्रं मार्जारं संश्रयामि वै ॥ १२.१३८.४१ ॥
Today, I who seek life, pursued by three enemies, take refuge in this friendly cat for the sake of my life.
12.138.42
नीतिशास्त्रं समाश्रित्य हितमस्योपवर्णये ।
येनेमं शत्रुसंघातं मतिपूर्वेण वञ्चये ॥ १२.१३८.४२ ॥
Relying on the science of policy, I shall set out what is good for him, so that by a deliberate stratagem I may deceive this host of enemies.
12.138.43
अयमत्यन्तशत्रुर्मे वैषम्यं परमं गतः ।
मूढो ग्राहयितुं स्वार्थं संगत्या यदि शक्यते ॥ १२.१३८.४३ ॥
This man is my utter enemy, brought to the greatest adversity. If this fool can be made to grasp his own interest through association…
12.138.44
कदाजिद्व्यसनं प्राप्य संधिं कुर्यान्मया सह ॥ १२.१३८.४४ ॥
Having at some time fallen into calamity, let him make peace with me.
12.138.45
बलिना सन्निकृष्टस्य शत्रोरपि परिग्रहः ।
कार्य इत्याहुराचार्या विषमे जीवितार्थिना ॥ १२.१३८.४५ ॥
The teachers say that even an enemy brought near by a strong man should be accepted, by one who in adversity seeks to live.
12.138.46
श्रेष्ठो हि पण्डितः शत्रुर्न च मित्रमपण्डितः ।
अमित्रे खलु मार्जारे जीवितं संप्रतिष्ठितम् ॥ १२.१३८.४६ ॥
A wise enemy is indeed better, and not a foolish friend. Indeed, life is secured even in an enemy cat.
12.138.47
ततोऽस्मै संप्रवक्ष्यामि हेतुमात्माभिरक्षणे ।
अपीजानीमयं शत्रुः संगत्या पण्डितो भवेत् ॥ १२.१३८.४७ ॥
Therefore I shall explain to him the reason for self-protection, so that this enemy may perhaps become wise through association.
12.138.48
एवं विचिन्तयामास मूषिकः शत्रुचेष्टितम् ॥ १२.१३८.४८ ॥
Thus the mouse reflected upon the enemy's conduct.
12.138.49
ततोऽर्थगतितत्त्वज्ञः संधिविग्रहकालवित् ।
सान्त्वपूर्वमिदं वाक्यं मार्जारं मूषिकोऽब्रवीत् ॥ १२.१३८.४९ ॥
Then the mouse, who knew the true nature of the course of affairs and the time for peace and for war, began with soothing words and spoke this speech to the cat.
12.138.50
सौहृदेनाभिभाषे त्वां कच्चिन्मार्जार जीवसे ।
जीवितं हि तवेच्छामि श्रेयः साधारणं हि नौ ॥ १२.१३८.५० ॥
Out of friendship I speak to you, cat — are you alive? I wish for your life, for the good of us both is shared.
12.138.51
न ते सौम्य भयं कार्यं जीविष्यसि यथा पुरा ।
अहं त्वामुद्धरिष्यामि प्राणाञ्जह्यां हि ते कृते ॥ १२.१३८.५१ ॥
Gentle one, you should not be afraid; you will live as before. I will rescue you, and for your sake I would even give up my life.
12.138.52
अस्ति कश्चिदुपायोऽत्र पुष्कल प्रतिभाति मे ।
येन शक्यस्त्वया मोक्षः प्राप्नुं श्रेयस्तथा मया ॥ १२.१३८.५२ ॥
There seems to me to be a means here, O excellent one, by which release can be obtained by you, and in this way good for me as well.
12.138.53
मयाऽप्युपायो दृष्टोऽयं विचार्य मतिमात्मनः ।
आत्मार्थं च त्वदर्थं च श्रेयः साधारणां हि नौ ॥ १२.१३८.५३ ॥
Having considered it with my own judgment, I too have seen this means — for my own sake and for yours as well, since the good of us both is shared.
12.138.54
इदं हि नकुलोलूकं पापबुद्ध्या हि संस्थितम् ।
न धर्षयति मार्जार तेन ते स्वस्ति सांप्रतम् ॥ १२.१३८.५४ ॥
Here are the mongoose and the owl, standing there with evil intent; cat, they will not attack you — so for now you are safe.
12.138.55
कूजंश्चपलनेत्रोऽयं कौशिको मां निरीक्षते ।
नगशाखाग्रगः पापस्तस्याहं भृशमुद्विजे ॥ १२.१३८.५५ ॥
This owl with restless eyes, sitting at the tip of a branch, murmurs and watches me. I am greatly afraid of that wicked one.
12.138.56
सतां साप्तपदं मैत्रं स सखा मेऽसि पण्डितः ।
साहाय्यकं करिष्यामि नास्ति ते प्राणतो भयम् ॥ १२.१३८.५६ ॥
Among the good, friendship is formed by seven steps. You are my wise friend. I will give you help; there is no fear for your life.
12.138.57
न हि शक्तोऽसि मार्जार पाशं छेत्तुं मया विना ।
अहं छेत्स्यामि पाशांस्ते यदि मां त्वं न हिंससि ॥ १२.१३८.५७ ॥
O cat, indeed you are not able to cut this snare without me. If you do not harm me, I will cut your snares.
12.138.58
त्वमाश्रितो द्रुमस्याग्रं मूलं त्वहमुपाश्रितः ।
चिरोषितावुभावावां वृक्षेऽस्मिन्विदितं च ते ॥ १२.१३८.५८ ॥
You have taken shelter at the top of the tree, and I have taken shelter at its root. We two have long dwelt in this tree, as you well know.
12.138.59
यस्मिन्नाश्वासते कश्चिद्यश्च नाश्वसिति क्वचित् ।
न तौ धीराः प्रशंसन्ति नित्यमुद्विग्रमानसौ ॥ १२.१३८.५९ ॥
Those in whom someone finds trust, and he who never trusts anyone anywhere — the steady ones never praise these two, for their minds are always agitated.
12.138.60
तस्माद्विवर्धतां प्रीतिर्नित्यं संगतमस्तु नौ ।
कालातीतमिहार्थं हि न प्रशंसन्ति पण्डिताः ॥ १२.१३८.६० ॥
Therefore, may our affection always grow, and may our union always endure. For wise men do not praise a thing done past its time.
12.138.61
अर्थयुक्तिमिमां तत्र यथाभूतां निशामय ।
तव जीवितमिच्छामि त्वं ममेच्छसि जीवितम् ॥ १२.१३८.६१ ॥
Listen closely to this line of reasoning just as it is put there: I desire your life, and you desire my life.
12.138.62
कश्चित्तरति काष्ठेन सुगम्भीरां महानदीम् ।
स तारयति तत्काष्ठं स च काष्ठेन तार्यते ॥ १२.१३८.६२ ॥
Someone crosses a very deep great river by means of a log. He carries the log across, and he is carried across by the log.
12.138.63
ईदृशो नौ क्रियायोगो भविष्यति सुविस्तरः ।
अहं त्वां तारयिष्यामि मां च त्वं तारयिष्यसि ॥ १२.१३८.६३ ॥
Such a joint undertaking between us will be far-reaching: I will carry you across, and you will carry me across.
12.138.64
एवमुक्त्वा तु पलितस्तमर्थमुभयोर्हितम् ।
हेतुमद्ग्रहणीयं च कालापेक्षी व्यतिष्ठत ॥ १२.१३८.६४ ॥
Having spoken thus, the grey-haired one stood waiting for the right moment, having stated that matter, beneficial to both and reasonable and acceptable.
12.138.65
अथ सुव्याहृतं श्रुत्वा तस्य शत्रोर्विचक्षणः ।
हेतुमद्ग्रहणीयार्थं मार्जारो वाक्यमब्रवीत् ॥ १२.१३८.६५ ॥
Then, having heard the well-spoken words of that enemy, the clever cat spoke words that were reasonable and acceptable.
12.138.66
बुद्धिमान्वाक्यसंपन्नस्तद्वाक्यमनुवर्तयन् ।
स्वामवस्थां प्रतीक्ष्यैनं साम्नैव प्रत्यपूजयत् ॥ १२.१३८.६६ ॥
The wise one, skilled in speech, following those words and watching his own situation, waited for him and honoured him in return by conciliation alone.
12.138.67
ततस्तीक्ष्णाग्रदशनो मणिवैदूर्यलोचनः ।
मूषिकं मन्दमुद्वीक्ष्य मार्जारो लोमशोऽब्रबीत् ॥ १२.१३८.६७ ॥
Then Lomaśa, the cat with sharp-pointed teeth and eyes like gems and lapis lazuli, looked slowly at the mouse and spoke.
12.138.68
नन्दामि सौम्य भद्रं ते यो मां जीवितुमिच्छसि ।
श्रेयश्च यदि जानीषे क्रियतां मा विचारय ॥ १२.१३८.६८ ॥
Gentle one, may you prosper. I am glad of you, who wish to live with me. If you know what is good, do it; do not deliberate.
12.138.69
अहं हि भृशमापन्नस्त्वमापन्नतरो मया ।
द्वयोरापन्नयोः सन्धिः क्रियतां मा चिराय च ॥ १२.१३८.६९ ॥
I am in great distress, and you are in even greater distress than I. Since we both are in distress, let there be a truce, and do not delay.
12.138.70
विधत्स्व प्राप्तकालं यत्कार्थं सिध्यतु चावयोः ।
मयि कृच्छ्राद्विनिर्मुक्ते न विनङ्क्ष्यति ते कृतम् ॥ १२.१३८.७० ॥
Do what must be done at the proper time, so that the aim of us both may be accomplished. Once I am freed from this distress, what you have done will not be lost.
12.138.71
न्यस्तमानोस्मि भक्तोस्मि शिष्यस्त्वद्धितकृत्तथा ।
तथा निदेशवर्ती च भवन्तं शरणं गतः ॥ १२.१३८.७१ ॥
I have set aside my pride. I am your devotee and disciple, one who works for your welfare and obeys your command; I have come to you for refuge.
12.138.72
इत्येवमुक्तः पलितो मार्जारं वशमागतम् ।
वाक्यं हितमुवाचेदमभिजातार्थमर्थवित् ॥ १२.१३८.७२ ॥
Thus addressed, the wise mouse Palita, who knew what was useful, spoke these beneficial words, with a noble purpose, to the cat that had come under his power.
12.138.73
उदारं यद्भवानाह नैतच्चित्रं भवद्विधे ।
विहितो यस्तु मार्गो मे हितार्थं शृणु तं मम ॥ १२.१३८.७३ ॥
That noble speech of yours is no wonder for one such as you. Hear from me the path prescribed for my welfare.
12.138.74
अहं त्वाऽनुप्रवेक्ष्यामि नकुलान्मे महद्भयम् ।
त्रायस्व मां मा वधीश्च शक्तोऽस्मि तव रक्षणे ॥ १२.१३८.७४ ॥
I will enter into you, for I have great fear of the mongoose. Protect me, do not kill me; I am able to protect you.
12.138.75
उलूकाच्चैव मां रक्ष क्षुद्रः प्रार्थयते हि माम् ।
अहं छेत्स्यामि ते पाशान्सखे सत्येने ते शपे ॥ १२.१३८.७५ ॥
Protect me also from the owl, for that base creature seeks me. Friend, I will cut your snares; I swear it by your truth.
12.138.76
तद्वचः संगतं श्रुत्वा लोमशो युक्तमर्थवत् ।
हर्षादुद्वीक्ष्य पलितं स्वागतेनाभ्यपूजयत् ॥ १२.१३८.७६ ॥
Having heard that fitting and meaningful speech, Lomaśa, in joy, looked upon the grey one and honored him with a welcome.
12.138.77
तं संपूज्याथ पलितं मार्जारः सौहृदे स्थितम् ।
स विचिन्त्याब्रवीद्धीरः प्रीतस्त्वरित एव च ॥ १२.१३८.७७ ॥
Having honored him, the cat, steadfast in friendship, considered, and then the wise one spoke, pleased and quick.
12.138.78
क्षिप्रमागच्छ भद्रं ते त्वं मे प्राणसमः सखा ।
तव प्राज्ञप्रसादाद्धि प्रियं प्राप्स्यामि जीवितम् ॥ १२.१३८.७८ ॥
Come quickly, may good fortune be yours; you are a friend equal to my life. By the grace of your wise one I shall obtain my dear life.
12.138.79
यद्यदेवंगतेनाद्य शक्यं कर्तुं मया तव ।
तदाज्ञापस्य कर्तास्मि सिद्धिरेवास्तु नौ सखे ॥ १२.१३८.७९ ॥
Whatever can be done by me for you in this situation today, command it; I will do it. Let there be success for us both, friend.
12.138.80
अस्मात्ते संशयान्मुक्तः समित्रगणबान्धवः ।
सर्वकार्याणि कर्ताऽहं प्रियाणि च हितानि च ॥ १२.१३८.८० ॥
From this danger you are freed, together with your friends, followers and kinsmen. I will perform all tasks, both pleasing and beneficial.
12.138.81
मुक्तश्च व्यसनादस्मात्सौम्याहमपि नाम ते ।
प्रीतिमुत्पादयेयं न प्रतिकर्तुं च शक्नुयाम् ॥ १२.१३८.८१ ॥
Freed from this misfortune, gentle one, I too may bring you joy, though perhaps I may not be able to repay you in kind.
12.138.82
प्रत्युपकुर्वन्बह्वपि न भाति पूर्वोपकारिणा तुल्यः ।
एकः करोति हि कृते निष्कारणमेव कुरुतेऽन्यः ॥ १२.१३८.८२ ॥
Though one repays much, it does not seem equal to the one who helped first. One does in return for what was done; another acts without any cause at all.
12.138.83
एवमाश्वासितो बिद्वान्मार्जारेण स मूषिकः ।
प्रविवेश सुविस्रब्धः सम्यगङ्गीचकार ह ॥ १२.१३८.८३ ॥
Thus reassured by the cat, that wise mouse entered with complete trust and fully accepted it.
12.138.84
ग्राहयित्वा तु तं स्वार्थं मार्जारं मूषिकस्तथा ।
मार्जारोरसि विस्रब्धः सुष्वाप पितृमातृवत् ॥ १२.१३८.८४ ॥
But that mouse, for its own purpose, had the cat seized in the same way, and trusting on the cat's chest, slept as if on a father or mother.
12.138.85
निलीनं तस्य गात्रेषु मार्जारस्याथ मूषिकम् ।
दृष्ट्वा तौ नकुलोलूकौ निराशौ प्रत्यपद्यताम् ॥ १२.१३८.८५ ॥
Seeing the mouse hidden among the cat's limbs, the mongoose and the owl turned back in disappointment.
12.138.86
तथैव तौ सुसंत्रस्तौ दृढमागततन्द्रितौ ।
दृष्ट्वा तयोः परां प्रीतिं विस्मयं परमं गतौ ॥ १२.१३८.८६ ॥
Likewise, the two were greatly frightened and became heavily drowsy; seeing the supreme affection between them, they were filled with great wonder.
12.138.87
बलिनौ मतिमन्तौ च सुवृत्तौ चाप्युपासितौ ।
अशक्तौ तु नयात्तस्मात्संप्रधर्षयितुं बलात् ॥ १२.१३८.८७ ॥
Though strong, wise, of good conduct, and served by others, they were unable to assault them by force, because of policy.
12.138.88
कार्यार्थं कृतसंधी तौ दृष्ट्वा मार्जारमूषिकौ ।
उलूकनकुलौ तूर्णं जग्मतुस्तौ स्वमालयम् ॥ १२.१३८.८८ ॥
Seeing the cat and the mouse bound by an agreement for their purpose, the owl and the mongoose quickly went back to their own dwelling.
12.138.89
लीनः स तस्य गात्रेषु पलितो देशकालवित् ।
चिच्छेद पाशान्नृपते कालाकाङ्क्षी शनैः शनैः ॥ १२.१३८.८९ ॥
That gray-haired mouse, hidden among the cat's limbs, knowing the proper place and time, waited for the moment and cut the bonds, slowly, slowly, O king.
12.138.90
अथ बन्धपरिक्लिष्टो मार्जारो वीक्ष्य मूषिकम् ।
छिन्दन्तं वै तदा पाशानत्वरन्तं त्वरान्वितः ॥ १२.१३८.९० ॥
Then the cat, distressed by its bonds, saw the mouse cutting the cords, not hurrying, while the cat itself was anxious and hastened.
12.138.91
तमत्वरन्तं पलितं पाशानां छेदने तदा ।
संचोदयितुमारेभे मार्जारो मूषिकं ततः ॥ १२.१३८.९१ ॥
Then the cat began to urge on the grey mouse, who was not hurrying in cutting the snares.
12.138.92
किं सौम्य नातित्वरसे किं कृतार्थोऽवमन्यसे ।
छिन्धि पाशानमित्रघ्न पुरा श्वपच एति सः ॥ १२.१३८.९२ ॥
Friend, why are you not hurrying more? Do you disregard it, thinking your task is done? Slayer of enemies, cut the snares before that outcaste hunter comes.
12.138.93
इत्युक्तस्त्वरताऽनेन मतिमान्पलितोऽब्रवीत् ।
मार्जारमकृतप्रज्ञं तथ्यमात्महितं वचः ॥ १२.१३८.९३ ॥
Thus urged on by him, the wise grey mouse spoke true words, beneficial to itself, to the cat that lacked wisdom.
12.138.94
तूष्णीं भव न ते सौम्य त्वरा कार्या न संभ्रमः ।
वयमेवात्र कालज्ञा न कालः परिहास्यते ॥ १२.१३८.९४ ॥
Be silent, gentle friend; you should neither hurry nor be agitated. We alone here know the time; the moment will not be lost.
12.138.95
अकाले कृत्यमारब्धं कर्तुर्नार्थाय कल्पते ।
तदेव काल आरब्धं महतेऽर्थाय कल्पते ॥ १२.१३८.९५ ॥
An action begun at the wrong time does not serve the doer's aim; that same action begun at the right time serves a great aim.
12.138.96
अकाले विप्रमुक्तान्मे त्वत्त एव भयं भवेत् ।
तस्मात्कालं प्रतीक्षस्व किमिति त्वरसे सखे ॥ १२.१३८.९६ ॥
If I were released at the wrong time, the danger would come to me from you indeed. Therefore wait for the right time; friend, why do you hurry so?
12.138.97
यावत्पश्यामि चण्डालमायान्तं शस्त्रपाणिनम् ।
ततश्छेत्स्यामि ते पाशान्प्राप्ते साधारणे भये ॥ १२.१३८.९७ ॥
Wait until I see the outcast hunter coming with a weapon in hand; then, when the common danger arrives, I will cut your nooses.
12.138.98
तस्मिन्काले प्रमुक्तस्त्वं तरुमेवाधिरोक्ष्यसे ।
न हि ते जीवितादन्यत्किंचित्कृत्यं भविष्यति ॥ १२.१३८.९८ ॥
Freed at that time, you will climb straight up the tree, for you will have no task other than saving your life.
12.138.99
तस्मिन्कालेऽपि च तता दिवाकीर्तिभयार्दितः ।
मम न ग्रहणे शक्तः पलायनपरायणः ॥ १२.१३८.९९ ॥
Even at that time, tormented by fear of the owl, he will be unable to seize me and will be intent only on fleeing.
12.138.100
ततो भवत्यपक्रान्ते त्रस्ते भीते च लुब्धकात् ।
अहं बिलं प्रवेक्ष्यामि भवाञ्शाखां गमिष्यति ॥ १२.१३८.१०० ॥
Then, when the hunter has gone off, terrified and frightened, I will enter the hole, and you will go to the branch.
12.138.101
एवमुक्तस्तु मार्जारो मूषिकेणात्मनो हितम् ।
वचनं वाक्यतत्त्वज्ञो जीवितार्थी महामतिः ॥ १२.१३८.१०१ ॥
Thus addressed by the mouse, the cat, knowing the essence of what is beneficial to itself, desiring life and great of mind, took up the words.
12.138.102
अथात्मकृत्ये त्वरितः सम्यक्प्रार्थितमाचरन् ।
उवाच लोमशो वाक्यं मूषिकं चिरकारिणाम् ॥ १२.१३८.१०२ ॥
Then, hastening in his own affair and carefully performing what had been asked, Lomaśa the mouse spoke these words to the mouse of those who act slowly.
12.138.103
नह्येवं मित्रकार्याणि प्रीत्या कुर्वन्ति साधवः ॥ १२.१३८.१०३ ॥
Good people do not perform a friend's tasks in this way, with affection.
12.138.104
यथा त्वं मोक्षितः कृच्छ्रात्त्वरमाणेन वै मया ।
तथा हि त्वरमाणेन त्वया कार्यमिदं मम।
यत्नं कुरु महाप्राज्ञ यथा स्वस्त्यावयोर्भवेत् ॥ १२.१३८.१०४ ॥
As I quickly freed you from distress, so you too must quickly do this task for me. O greatly wise one, make effort so that we both may have well-being.
12.138.105
अथवा पूर्ववैरं त्वं स्मरन्कालं जिहीर्षसि ।
पश्य दुष्कृतकर्मंस्त्वं व्यक्तमायुःक्षयो मम ॥ १२.१३८.१०५ ॥
Or, remembering our former enmity, do you wish to seize time (my life)? O doer of evil deeds, see that the loss of my life is plain.
12.138.106
यदि किंचिन्मयाऽज्ञानात्पुरस्ताद्दुष्कृतं कृतम् ।
न तन्मनसि कर्तव्यं क्षामये त्वां प्रसीद मे ॥ १२.१३८.१०६ ॥
If, out of ignorance, I have done some wrong deed before, it should not be held in your mind. I ask your forgiveness; be gracious to me.
12.138.107
तमेवंवादिनं प्राज्ञं शास्त्रविद्बुद्धिसत्तमः ।
उवाचेदं वचः श्रेष्ठं मार्जारं मूषिकस्तदा ॥ १२.१३८.१०७ ॥
To that wise one speaking thus, the mouse, knower of scripture and best in understanding, then spoke this excellent word to the cat.
12.138.108
श्रुतं मे तव मार्जार स्वमर्थं परिगृह्णतः ।
ममापि त्वं विजानासि स्वमर्थं परिगृह्णतः ॥ १२.१३८.१०८ ॥
O cat, I have heard that you pursue your own purpose; and you know that I too pursue my own purpose.
12.138.109
यन्मित्रं भीतवत्साध्यं यस्मिन्मित्रे भयं हितम् ।
आरक्षितं ततः कार्यं पाणिः सर्पमुखादिव ॥ १२.१३८.१०९ ॥
A friend who must be won over as one would win over a frightened one, and in whom fear is beneficial — one should act while guarded against him, as one guards the hand from a serpent's mouth.
12.138.110
कृत्वा बलवता संधिमात्मानं यो न रक्षति ।
अपथ्यमिव तद्भुक्तं तस्यार्थाय कल्पते ॥ १२.१३८.११० ॥
For one who, having made a pact with a powerful man, does not protect himself, that pact becomes like unwholesome food eaten — it serves only his own undoing.
12.138.111
कश्चित्कस्यचिन्मित्रं न कश्चित्कस्यचिद्रिपुः ।
अर्थतस्तु निबध्यन्ते मित्राणि रिपवस्तथा ॥ १२.१३८.१११ ॥
No one is anyone's friend, and no one is anyone's enemy; friends and foes alike are bound together by interest.
12.138.112
अर्थैरर्था निबध्यन्ते गजैरिव महागजाः ।
न च कश्चित्कृते कार्ये कर्तारं समवेक्षते।
तस्मात्सर्वाणि कार्याणि सावशेषाणि कारयेत् ॥ १२.१३८.११२ ॥
As great elephants are bound by elephants, so interests are bound by interests. When a deed is done, no one regards its doer; therefore all tasks should be had done with something left over.
12.138.113
तस्मिन्कालेऽपि च भवान्दिवाकीर्तिभयार्दितः ।
मम न ग्रहणे शक्तः पलायपरायणः ॥ १२.१३८.११३ ॥
Even at that time, you, tormented by fear of disgrace in the world, were unable to seize me, and were intent only on flight.
12.138.114
छिन्नं तु तन्तुबाहुल्यं तन्तुरेकोऽवशेषितः ।
छेत्स्याम्यहं तमप्याशु निर्वृतो भव लोमश ॥ १२.१३८.११४ ॥
Many threads have been cut, and only one thread remains; I will cut that one too, quickly. Be at peace, O Lomaśa.
12.138.115
तयोः संवदतोरेवं तथैवापन्नयोर्द्वयोः ।
क्षयं जगाम सा रात्रिर्लोमशं त्वागमद्भयम् ॥ १२.१३८.११५ ॥
As the two of them thus conversed, placed in the same plight, that night came to an end, and fear came upon Lomaśa.
12.138.116
ततः प्रभातसमये विकटः कृष्णपिङ्गलः ।
स्थूलस्फिग्विकृतो रूक्षः श्वयूथपरिवारितः ॥ १२.१३८.११६ ॥
Then at the time of dawn there appeared a fearsome man, black and tawny, with thick and misshapen buttocks, harsh, surrounded by a pack of dogs.
12.138.117
शङ्कुकर्णो महावक्रः खनित्री घोरदर्शनः ।
परिघो नाम चण्डालः शस्त्रपाणिरदृश्यत ॥ १२.१३८.११७ ॥
Parigha, the outcaste, with ears like stakes, very crooked, carrying a spade, terrible to behold, appeared with a weapon in his hand.
12.138.118
तं दृष्ट्वा यमदूताभं मार्जारस्त्रस्तचेतनः ।
उवाच पलितं भीतः किमिदानीं करिष्यसि ॥ १२.१३८.११८ ॥
Seeing him, like a messenger of Yama, the cat, its mind terrified, said to the frightened mouse: "What will you do now?"
12.138.119
तथैव च सुसंत्रस्तौ तं दृष्ट्वा घोरसंकुलम् ।
क्षणेन नकुलोलूकौ नैराश्यमुपजग्मतुः ॥ १२.१३८.११९ ॥
Likewise, the mongoose and the owl, greatly terrified, seeing that terrible crowd, in an instant fell into despair.
12.138.120
बलिनौ मतिमन्तौ च संघातं चाप्युपागतौ ।
अशक्तौ सुनयात्तस्मात्संप्रधर्षयितुं बलात् ॥ १२.१३८.१२० ॥
Though both strong and wise, and having joined together, they were unable, without good policy, to overpower him by force.
12.138.121
कार्यार्थे कृतसंधी तौ दृष्ट्वा मार्जारमूषिकौ ।
उलूकनकुलौ तूर्णं जग्मतुः स्वंस्वमालयम् ॥ १२.१३८.१२१ ॥
Having seen the cat and the mouse, who had made a pact for a purpose, and the owl and the mongoose, they quickly went each to their own dwelling.
12.138.122
ततश्चिच्छेद तं तन्तुं मार्जारस्य स मूषिकः ।
विप्रमुक्तोऽथ मार्जारस्तमेवाभ्यपतद्दुमम् ॥ १२.१३८.१२२ ॥
Then the mouse cut through that thread of the cat's. Freed, the cat leapt straight at that very tree.
12.138.123
स तस्मात्संभ्रमान्मुक्तो मुक्तो घोरेण सत्रुणा ।
बिलं विवेश पलितः शाखां लेभे स लोमशः ॥ १२.१३८.१२३ ॥
Released in haste from that fierce enemy, he entered the hole; the grey one, the hairy one, obtained a branch.
12.138.124
उन्माथमप्युपादाय चण्डालो वीक्ष्य सर्वशः ।
विहताशः क्षणेनैव तस्माद्देशादपाक्रमत्।
जगाम स स्वभवनं चण्डालो भरतर्षभ ॥ १२.१३८.१२४ ॥
Taking up even the digging tool, the outcast looked about on every side, and in a moment his hope was broken. He withdrew from that place and went back to his own home, O bull of the Bharatas.
12.138.125
ततस्तस्माद्भान्मुक्तो दुर्लभं प्राप्य जीवितम् ।
बिलस्थं पादपाग्रस्थः पलितं लोमशोऽब्रवीत् ॥ १२.१३८.१२५ ॥
Then, freed from that danger and having won a precious life, Lomaśa, standing at the tip of the tree branch, spoke to Palita, who was in the hole.
12.138.126
अकृत्वा संविदं कांचित्सहसा त्वमपस्रुतः ।
कृतज्ञः कृतकल्याणः कच्चिन्मां नाभिशङ्कसे ॥ १२.१३८.१२६ ॥
Without making any agreement, you slipped away suddenly. O grateful one, O doer of good, do you not perhaps suspect me?
12.138.127
गत्वा च मम विश्वासं दत्त्वा च मम जीवितम् ।
मित्रोपभोगसमये किं हि मां नोपसर्पसि ॥ १२.१३८.१२७ ॥
Having gained my trust and given me back my life, why do you not approach me now, when friends are enjoying their good fortune?
12.138.128
कृत्वा हि पूर्वं मित्राणि यः पश्चान्नानुतिष्ठति ।
न स मित्राणि लभते कृच्छ्रात्स्वापत्सु दुर्मतिः ॥ १२.१३८.१२८ ॥
He who, having first made friendships, afterwards does not keep them, that ill-minded man obtains friends only with difficulty in his own calamities.
12.138.129
सत्कृतोऽहं त्वया मित्र सामर्थ्यादात्मानः सखे ।
स मां मित्रत्वमापन्नमुपभोक्तुं त्वमर्हसि ॥ १२.१३८.१२९ ॥
Honored by you according to your ability, O friend, I, who have attained friendship, you ought now to enjoy me.
12.138.130
यानि मे सन्ति मित्राणि ये च मे सन्ति बान्धवाः ।
सर्वे त्वां पूजयिष्यन्ति शिष्या गुरुमिव प्रियम् ॥ १२.१३८.१३० ॥
All my friends and kinsmen who exist will honor you as disciples honor a beloved teacher.
12.138.131
अहं च पूजयिष्ये त्वां समित्रगणबान्धवम् ।
जीवितस्य प्रदातारं कृतज्ञः को न पूजयेत् ॥ १२.१३८.१३१ ॥
I too will honor you, together with your host of friends and kinsmen, the giver of my life; what grateful man would not honor him?
12.138.132
ईश्वरो मे भवानस्तु शरीरस्य गृहस्य च ।
अर्थानां चैव सर्वेषामनुशास्ता च मे भव ॥ १२.१३८.१३२ ॥
Let you be the lord of my body and house, and become my instructor in all affairs.
12.138.133
अमात्यो मे भव प्राज्ञ पितेवेह प्रशाधि माम् ।
न तेऽस्ति भयमस्मत्तो जीवितेनात्मनः शपे ॥ १२.१३८.१३३ ॥
O wise one, be my counsellor; here, instruct me as a father would. You have no fear from us—I swear it by my own life.
12.138.134
बुद्ध्या त्वमुशना साक्षाद्बलेनाधिकृता वयम् ।
त्वं मन्त्रबलयुक्तो हि दद्या विजयमेव मे ॥ १२.१३८.१३४ ॥
In wisdom you are Uśanas himself; we have been placed under your authority by force. Endowed with the strength of counsel, you will surely give me victory.
12.138.135
एवमुक्तः परं सान्त्वं मार्जारेण स मूषिकः ।
उवाच परमार्थज्ञः श्लक्ष्णमात्महितं वचः ॥ १२.१३८.१३५ ॥
Thus addressed with very soothing words by the cat, the mouse, who knew the highest truth, gently spoke words for his own good.
12.138.136
यद्भवानाह तत्सर्वं मया ते लोमश श्रुतम् ।
ममापि तावद्ब्रुवतः शृणु यत्प्रतिभाति मे ॥ १२.१३८.१३६ ॥
All that you have said I have heard from you, O Lomaśa. Now listen, as I speak, to what appears to me.
12.138.137
वेदितव्यानि मित्राणि बोद्धव्याश्चापि शत्रवः ।
एतत्सुसूक्ष्मं लोकेऽस्मिन्दृश्यते प्राज्ञसंमतैः ॥ १२.१३८.१३७ ॥
Friends must be known, and enemies must be recognized as well. In this world this is very subtle, and it is seen only as the wise agree.
12.138.138
शत्रुरूपा हि सुहृदो मित्ररूपाश्च शत्रवः ।
सान्त्वितास्ते न बुध्यन्ते रागलोभवशं गताः ॥ १२.१३८.१३८ ॥
Friends may take the form of enemies, and enemies the form of friends. Soothed, they are not recognized, for they have gone under the sway of passion and greed.
12.138.139
येषां सौम्यानि मित्राणि क्रोधनाश्चैव शत्रवः ।
सान्त्वितास्ते न बुध्यन्ते रागलोभवशंगताः ॥ १२.१३८.१३९ ॥
Those whose friends are gentle and whose enemies are wrathful do not perceive, even when pacified, for they have fallen under the power of desire and greed.
12.138.140
नास्ति जात्या रिपुर्नाम मित्रं नाम न विद्यते ।
सामर्थ्ययोगाज्जायन्ते मित्राणि रिपवस्तथा ॥ १२.१३८.१४० ॥
By birth there is no enemy by name, nor is there a friend by name; through the bond of advantage, friends arise, and likewise enemies.
12.138.141
यो यस्मिञ्जीवति स्वार्थे पश्येत्पीडां न जीवति ।
स तस्य मित्रं तावत्स्यःद्यावन्न स्याद्विपर्ययः ॥ १२.१३८.१४१ ॥
He who lives for his own advantage and does not see harm from another, that one is his friend, so long as there is no reversal.
12.138.142
नास्ति मैत्री स्थिरा नाम न च ध्रुवमसौहृदम् ।
अर्थयुक्त्याऽनुजायन्ते मित्राणि रिपवस्तथा ॥ १२.१३८.१४२ ॥
There is no lasting friendship by name, nor is there certain enmity; by the reasoning of advantage, friends arise afterward, and likewise enemies.
12.138.143
मित्रं च शत्रुतामेति कस्मिंश्चित्कालपर्यये ।
शत्रुश्च मित्रतामेति स्वार्थो हि बलवत्तरः ॥ १२.१३८.१४३ ॥
A friend at some change of time comes to enmity, and an enemy comes to friendship; for self-interest is indeed the stronger.
12.138.144
यो विश्वसिति मित्रेषु न विश्वसिति शत्रुषु ।
अर्थयुक्तिमविज्ञाय चलितं तस्य जीवितम् ॥ १२.१३८.१४४ ॥
He who trusts friends and does not trust enemies, yet does not understand the reasoning of advantage, his life is shaken.
12.138.145
मित्रे वा यदि वा शत्रौ तस्यापि चलिता मतिः ।
न विश्वसेदविश्वस्ते विश्वस्ते नातिविश्वसेत्।
विश्वासाद्भयमुत्पन्नमपि मूलानि कृन्तति ॥ १२.१३८.१४५ ॥
Whether in a friend or in an enemy, one should not trust one whose mind is unsteady. One should not trust the untrustworthy, and one should not trust the trustworthy excessively. Fear born of trust cuts away even the roots.
12.138.146
अर्थयुक्त्या हि जायन्ते पिता माता सुतस्तथा ।
मातुला भागिनेयाश्च तथा संबन्धिबान्धवाः ॥ १२.१३८.१४६ ॥
Indeed, through the reasoning of self-interest, father, mother and son come to be, and likewise maternal uncles and sister's sons, as well as relatives by marriage and kinsmen.
12.138.147
पुत्रं हि मातापितरौ त्यजतः पतितं प्रियम् ।
लोको रक्षति चात्मानं पश्य स्वार्थस्य सारताम् ॥ १२.१३८.१४७ ॥
Mother and father abandon even a dear son who has fallen, and people protect only themselves. See the essence of self-interest.
12.138.148
सामान्या निष्कृतिः प्राज्ञ यो मोक्षात्समन्तरम् ।
कृत्यं मृगयते कर्तुं सुखोपायमसंशयम् ॥ १२.१३८.१४८ ॥
O wise one, this is the common release: immediately after escape, a person seeks a deed to perform, undoubtedly a means to happiness.
12.138.149
अस्मिन्निलय एवं त्वं न्यग्रोधादवतारितः ।
पूर्वं निविष्टमुन्माथं चपलन्वान्न बुद्धवान् ॥ १२.१३८.१४९ ॥
In this very dwelling, in this way, you were brought down from the banyan tree. Formerly, the one who had settled there was driven out; being fickle, you did not understand it.
12.138.150
आत्मनश्चपलो नास्ति कुतोऽन्येषां भविष्यति ।
तस्मात्सर्वाणि कार्याणि चपलो हन्त्यसंशयम् ॥ १२.१३८.१५० ॥
He who is not fickle even toward himself, how will he be toward others? Therefore a fickle man undoubtedly destroys all his undertakings.
12.138.151
ब्रवीषि मधुरं यच्च प्रियो मेऽद्य भवानिति ।
तन्मिथ्याकारणं सर्वं विस्तरेणापि मे शृणु ॥ १२.१३८.१५१ ॥
The sweet words you speak, saying that today you are dear to me, all rest on a false cause. Hear it from me in full detail.
12.138.152
कारणात्प्रियतामेति द्वेष्यो भवति कारणात् ।
अर्थार्थी जीवलोकोऽयं न कश्चित्कस्यचित्प्रियः ॥ १२.१३८.१५२ ॥
By a cause one becomes dear, and by a cause one becomes hateful. This world of living beings seeks advantage; no one is dear to anyone.
12.138.153
सख्यं सोदर्ययोर्भ्रात्रोदर्पंत्योर्वा परस्परम् ।
कस्यचिन्नाभिजानामि प्रीतिं निष्कारणामिह ॥ १२.१३८.१५३ ॥
In the mutual friendship of brothers of one womb, of brothers, or of husband and wife, I know of no affection in this world that is without cause.
12.138.154
यद्यपि भ्रातरः क्रुद्धा भार्या वा कारणान्तरे ।
स्वभावतस्ते प्रीयन्ते नेतरः प्राकृतो जनः ॥ १२.१३८.१५४ ॥
Even when brothers are angry, or a wife is angry for some other cause, they are pleased by their very nature; an ordinary person is not so.
12.138.155
प्रियो भवति दानेन प्रियवादेन चापरः ।
मन्त्रहोमजपैरन्यः कार्यार्थे प्रीयते जनः ॥ १२.१३८.१५५ ॥
One becomes dear through gifts, another through kind speech, and yet another through mantras, oblations and recitation. A person is pleased for the sake of some aim.
12.138.156
उत्पन्ना कारणात्प्रीतिरासीन्नौ कारणान्तरे ।
प्रध्वस्ते कारणस्थाने सा प्रीतिर्नाभिवर्तते ॥ १२.१३८.१५६ ॥
Affection arose between us from one cause, and it was from another cause. When the place of the cause is destroyed, that affection does not return.
12.138.157
किंनु तत्कारणं मन्ये येनाहं भवतः प्रियः ।
अन्यत्राभ्यवहारार्थात्तत्रापि च बुधा वयम् ॥ १२.१३८.१५७ ॥
I wonder what the cause is by which I am dear to you — not for any other purpose, not even for the sake of enjoyment; we are wise men.
12.138.158
कालो हेतुं विकुरुते स्वार्थस्तमनुवर्तते ।
स्वार्धं प्राज्ञोऽभिजानाति प्राज्ञं लोकोऽनुवर्तते।
न त्वीदृशं त्वया वाच्यं विद्यते स्वार्थपण्डितः ॥ १२.१३८.१५८ ॥
Time alters the cause, and self-interest follows it. The wise man knows his own self-interest, and the people follow the wise. Such a thing you must not say; there is a man here learned in self-interest.
12.138.159
न कालो हि समर्थस्य स्नेहहेतुरयं तव ।
तस्मान्नाहं चले स्वार्थात्सुस्थितः संधिविग्रहे ॥ १२.१३८.१५९ ॥
Time is not the cause of affection for the capable one; this is your affection. Therefore I do not waver from self-interest; I stand firm in peace and in war.
12.138.160
अभ्राणामिव रुपाणि विकुर्वन्ति पदेपदे ।
अद्यैव हि रिपुर्भूत्वा पुनरद्यैव मे सुहृत्।
पुनश्च रिपुरद्यैव युक्तीनां पश्य चापलम् ॥ १२.१३८.१६० ॥
As the forms of clouds change at every step, today you become an enemy, and again today my friend; and again today an enemy. Behold the fickleness of stratagems.
12.138.161
आसीन्मैत्री तु तावन्नौ यावद्धेतुरभूत्पुरा ।
सागता सह तेनैव कालयुक्तेन हेतुना ॥ १२.१३८.१६१ ॥
Between us there was friendship only so long as the former cause existed; that friendship came along together with that very cause, joined to time.
12.138.162
त्वं हि मेऽत्यन्ततः शत्रुः सामर्थ्यान्मित्रतां गतः ।
तत्कृत्यमभिनिर्वर्त्य प्रकृतिः शत्रुतां गता ॥ १२.१३८.१६२ ॥
You were utterly my enemy, and through your strength you attained friendship. Having accomplished that task, the nature of your side has again turned to enmity.
12.138.163
सोऽहमेवं प्रणीतानि ज्ञात्वा शास्त्राणि तत्त्वतः ।
प्राविशेयं कथं पाशं त्वत्कृते तद्ब्रवीहि मे ॥ १२.१३८.१६३ ॥
Knowing the scriptures thus taught, in their true sense, how did I enter that snare on your account? Tell me that.
12.138.164
त्वद्वीर्येण विमुक्तोऽहं मद्वीर्येण तथा भवान् ।
अन्योन्यानुग्रहे वृत्ते नास्ति भूयः समागमः ॥ १२.१३८.१६४ ॥
By your might I was freed, and by my might you likewise. When mutual favour has come about, there is no meeting again.
12.138.165
त्वं हि सौम्य कृतार्थोऽद्य निवृत्तार्थास्तथा वयम् ।
न तेऽस्त्यद्य मया कृत्यं किंचिदन्यत्र भक्षणात् ॥ १२.१३८.१६५ ॥
Gentle one, today your aim is accomplished, and we too are freed from aims. Today there is no other business of yours with me, except eating.
12.138.166
अहमन्नं भवान्भोक्ता दुर्बलोऽहं भवान्बली ।
नावयोर्विद्यते संधिर्वियुक्ते विषमे बले ॥ १२.१३८.१६६ ॥
I am the food, you the eater; I am weak, you are strong. Between us two there is no agreement when strength is unequal and we are apart.
12.138.167
स मन्येऽहं तव प्रज्ञां यन्मोक्षात्प्रत्यनन्तरम् ।
भक्ष्यं मृगयते नूनं सुखोपायमसंशयम् ॥ १२.१३८.१६७ ॥
I think that is your wisdom: right after release you seek food — surely the easy means to comfort, without doubt.
12.138.168
…र्थी ह्येव सुव्यक्तो विमुक्तः प्रसृतः क्षुधा ।
शास्त्रजां मतिमास्थाय प्रातराशमिहेच्छसि ॥ १२.१३८.१६८ ॥
…seeker, indeed, clearly freed, spread out by hunger, relying on the understanding born of the scriptures, you here wish for a morning meal.
12.138.169
जानामि क्षुधितं च त्वामाहारसमयश्च ते ।
स त्वं मामभिसंधाय भक्ष्यं मृगयसे पुनः ॥ १२.१३८.१६९ ॥
I know you are hungry and that it is your time to eat. Yet you have set your aim on me and seek food again.
12.138.170
किंचात्र पुत्रदारार्थं यद्वाणीं सृजसे मयि ।
शुश्रूषां यतसे कर्तुं सखे मम तत्क्षमम् ॥ १२.१३८.१७० ॥
As for what you speak to me here for the sake of sons and wife, and the effort you make to serve me, friend, that is fitting.
12.138.171
त्वया मां सहितं दृष्ट्वा प्रिया भार्या सुताश्च ये ।
कस्मात्ते मां न खादेयुः स्पृष्टवा प्रणयिनि त्वयि ॥ १२.१३८.१७१ ॥
Seeing me with you, why would your beloved wife and sons not eat me, when you touch me with affection?
12.138.172
नाहं त्वया समेष्यामि वृत्ते हेतुसमागमे ।
शिवं ध्यायस्व मेऽत्रस्थः सुकृतं स्मरसे यदि ॥ १२.१३८.१७२ ॥
If you remember your good deeds, stand here and meditate on my welfare. I shall not meet with you in any event that brings us together for a reason.
12.138.173
शत्रोरन्नाद्यभूतः सन्क्लिष्टस्य क्षुधितस्य च ।
भक्ष्यं मृगयमाणस्य कः प्राज्ञो विषयं व्रजेत् ॥ १२.१३८.१७३ ॥
Who that is wise would enter the reach of one who is distressed and hungry, seeking food, having become the enemy's food?
12.138.174
स्वस्ति तेऽस्तु गमिष्यामि दूरादपि तवोद्विजे ।
विश्वस्तं वा प्रमत्तं वा एतदेव कृतं भवेत् ॥ १२.१३८.१७४ ॥
May it go well with you. I will go, fearing you even from afar, for whether one is trusting or heedless, this alone ought to be done.
12.138.175
नाहं त्वया समेष्यामि निवृत्तो भव लोमश ।
बलवत्सन्निकर्षो हि न कदाचित्प्रशस्यते ॥ १२.१३८.१७५ ॥
I will not meet with you; turn back, O Lomaśa. Close association with the powerful is never praised.
12.138.176
यदि त्वं सुकृतं वेत्सि तत्सख्यमनुसारय ।
प्रशान्तादपि हि प्राज्ञाद्भेतव्यं बलिनः सदा ॥ १२.१३८.१७६ ॥
If you know the kindness you have done, then pursue that friendship. One should always fear the strong, even one who is calm and wise.
12.138.177
यदि त्वर्थेन ते कार्यं ब्रूहि किं करवाणि ते ।
कामं सर्वं प्रदास्यामि न त्वात्मानं कथंचन ॥ १२.१३८.१७७ ॥
If you need anything for some purpose, tell me what I may do for you. I will give everything you desire, but in no way will I give up myself.
12.138.178
आत्मार्थे संततिस्त्याज्या राज्यं रत्नं धनानि च ।
अपि सर्वस्वमुत्सृज्य रक्षेदात्मानमात्मवान् ॥ १२.१३८.१७८ ॥
For the sake of oneself, offspring, kingdom, jewels and wealth should be abandoned. Even giving up all one's possessions, the self-controlled man should protect himself.
12.138.179
ऐश्वर्यधनरत्नानां प्रत्यमित्रेऽपि वर्तताम् ।
दृष्टा हि पुनरावृत्तिर्जीवतामिति नः श्रुतम् ॥ १२.१३८.१७९ ॥
Even with an enemy who possesses sovereignty, wealth and jewels, we have heard, the living have been seen to return again.
12.138.180
न त्वात्मनः संप्रदानं धनरत्नवदिष्यते ।
आत्मा हि सर्वदा रक्ष्यो दारैरपि धनैरपि ॥ १२.१३८.१८० ॥
But giving oneself away like wealth or jewels is not considered desirable. The self must always be protected, even more than wives and wealth.
12.138.181
आत्मरक्षणतन्त्राणां सुपरीक्षितकारिणाम् ।
आपदो नोपपद्यन्ते पुरुषाणां स्वदोषजाः ॥ १२.१३८.१८१ ॥
Calamities arising from their own faults do not befall men who make the protection of the self their rule and act only after careful examination.
12.138.182
शत्रुं सम्यगविज्ञातो विप्रियो ह्यबलीयसा ।
शङ्कनीयः स सर्वत्र प्रियमप्याचरन्सदा ॥ १२.१३८.१८२ ॥
An enemy not properly known is hostile even to one who is weaker; he is to be suspected everywhere, even if he always acts agreeably.
12.138.183
कुलजानां सुमित्राणां धार्मिकाणां महात्मनाम् ।
न तेषां चाल्यते बुद्धिः शास्त्रार्थकृतिश्चया ॥ १२.१३८.१८३ ॥
The intellect of those born in good families, the good friends, the righteous and the great-souled is not shaken, for they firmly practise the meaning of the scriptures.
12.138.184
इत्यभिव्यक्तमेवासौ पलितेनापहासितः ।
मार्जारो व्रीडितो भूत्वा मूषिकं वाक्यमब्रवीत् ॥ १२.१३८.१८४ ॥
Thus plainly spoken to, mocked by the grey one (the mouse), the cat, ashamed, said these words to the mouse.
12.138.185
सत्यं शपे त्वयाऽहं वै मित्रद्रोहो विगर्हितः ।
संमन्येऽहं तव प्रज्ञां यस्त्वं मम हिते रतः ॥ १२.१३८.१८५ ॥
Truly I swear by you: betrayal of a friend is condemned. I esteem your wisdom, you who are devoted to my welfare.
12.138.186
उक्तवानर्थतत्त्वेन मया संभिन्नदर्शनः ।
न तु मामन्यथा साधो त्वं ग्रहीतुमिहार्हसि ॥ १२.१३८.१८६ ॥
I have spoken according to the true sense, though my sight may be confused. O good one, do not take me otherwise here.
12.138.187
प्राणप्रदानजं त्वत्तो मयि सौहृदमागतम् ।
धर्मज्ञोऽस्मि गुणज्ञोऽस्मि कृतज्ञोस्मि विशेषतः ॥ १२.१३८.१८७ ॥
Because you gave me my life, I know the friendship that has come to me from you. I know dharma, I know virtues, and above all I am grateful.
12.138.188
मित्रेषु वत्सलश्चास्मि त्वद्भक्तश्च विशेषतः ।
त्वं मामेवंगते साधो न वाचयितुमर्हसि ॥ १२.१३८.१८८ ॥
I am tender toward friends, and especially devoted to you. O good one, in such a situation you ought not to reproach me.
12.138.189
त्वया हि वाच्यमानोऽहं जह्यां प्राणान्सबान्धवः ।
धिक्शब्दो हि बुधैर्दृष्टो मद्विधेषु मनस्विषु।
पतनं धर्मतत्त्वज्ञ न मे शङ्कितुमर्हसि ॥ १२.१३८.१८९ ॥
If you were to reproach me, I would give up my life along with my kinsmen. For men of spirit like me, the word of reproach is regarded by the wise as a fall. O knower of the truth of dharma, you ought not to doubt me in this.
12.138.190
इति संस्तूयमानोऽपि मार्जारेण स मूषिकः ।
मनसा भावगम्भीरं मार्जारमिदमब्रवीत् ॥ १२.१३८.१९० ॥
Though thus praised by the cat, that mouse, deep in purpose within his mind, spoke these words to the cat.
12.138.191
साधुर्भवान्कृतार्थोऽस्मि प्रिये च न च विश्वसे ।
संस्तवैर्वा धनौघैर्वा नाहं शक्यः पुनस्त्वया ॥ १२.१३८.१९१ ॥
You are good, and my purpose is accomplished. I do not trust even a beloved one. Neither by praises nor by floods of wealth can I be brought under your power again.
12.138.192
न ह्यमित्रवशं यान्ति प्राज्ञा निष्कारणं सखे ।
अस्मिन्नर्थे च गाथे द्वे निबोधोशनसा कृते ॥ १२.१३८.१९२ ॥
Indeed, wise men do not fall under the power of an enemy without cause, O friend. Hear in this matter two verses composed by Uśanas.
12.138.193
शत्रुसाधारणे कृत्ये कृत्वा सन्धिं बलीयसा ।
समाहितश्चरेद्बुद्ध्या कृतार्थश्च न विश्वसेत् ॥ १२.१३८.१९३ ॥
In a matter shared with enemies, having made a truce with the stronger, one should act with a collected mind and wisdom; even when the aim is achieved, one should not trust.
12.138.194
न विश्वसेदवश्वस्ते विश्वस्ते नातिविश्चसेत् ।
नित्यं विश्वासयेदन्यान्परेषां तु न विश्वसेत् ॥ १२.१३८.१९४ ॥
One should not trust one who is not trusted, nor trust excessively one who is trusted. One should always make others trust oneself, but should not trust rivals.
12.138.195
तस्मात्सर्वास्ववस्थासु रक्षेज्जीवितमात्मनः ।
द्रव्याणि संततिश्चैव सर्वं भवति जीवताम् ॥ १२.१३८.१९५ ॥
Therefore, in all circumstances one should protect one's own life; wealth and offspring too, everything belongs to those who are alive.
12.138.196
संक्षेपो नीतिशास्त्राणामविश्वासः परो मतः ।
नृषु तस्मादविश्वासः पुष्कलं हितमात्मनः ॥ १२.१३८.१९६ ॥
The essence of the treatises on conduct is held to be that distrust is supreme; therefore, distrust toward men is abundantly beneficial to oneself.
12.138.197
वध्यन्ते न ह्यविश्वस्ताः शत्रुर्भिर्दुर्बला अपि ।
विश्वस्तास्तेषु वध्यन्ते बलवन्तोऽपि शत्रुभिः ॥ १२.१३८.१९७ ॥
Those who are not trusting are not slain by enemies, even if they are weak; those who trust are slain by them, even if they are strong.
12.138.198
त्वद्विधेभ्यो मया ह्यात्मा रक्ष्यो मार्जार सर्वदा ।
रक्ष त्वमपि चात्मानं चण्डालाज्जातिकिल्बिषात् ॥ १२.१३८.१९८ ॥
From ones like you I must always protect myself, O cat; and you too, protect yourself from the outcaste, from the impurity of birth.
12.138.199
स तस्य ब्रुवतस्त्वेवं संत्रासाज्जातसाध्वसः ।
कथां हित्वा जवेनाशु मार्जारः प्रययौ ततः ॥ १२.१३८.१९९ ॥
As he was speaking thus, the cat, struck with fear from his terror, abandoned the tale and swiftly went away from there.
12.138.200
ततः शास्त्रार्थतत्त्वज्ञो बुद्धिसामर्थ्यमात्मनः ।
विश्राव्य पलितः प्राज्ञो बिलमन्यज्जगाम ह ॥ १२.१३८.२०० ॥
Then Palita, wise and knowing the true sense of the scriptures, having displayed the power of his own intellect, went into another hole.
12.138.201
एवं प्रज्ञावता बुद्ध्या दुर्बलेन महाबलाः ।
एकेन बहवोऽमित्राः पलितेनाभिसंधिताः ॥ १२.१३८.२०१ ॥
Thus, by one wise man weak in strength of wit, many mighty enemies were outwitted by Palita.
12.138.202
अरिणापि समर्थेन सन्धिं कुर्वीत पण्डितः ।
मूषिकश्च बिडालश्च मुक्तावन्योन्यसंश्रयात् ॥ १२.१३८.२०२ ॥
Even with a powerful enemy the wise should make a truce; the mouse and the cat were freed through mutual reliance.
12.138.203
इत्येवं क्षत्रधर्मस्य मया मार्गो निदर्शितः ।
विस्तरेण महाराज संक्षेपमपि मे शृणु ॥ १२.१३८.२०३ ॥
Thus I have set out in detail the path of the warrior's duty; now, great king, hear it also in brief from me.
12.138.204
अन्योन्यं कृतवैरौ तु चक्रतुः प्रीतिमुत्तमाम् ।
अन्योन्यमभिसंधातुं संबभूव तयोर्मतिः ॥ १२.१३८.२०४ ॥
The two who had been mutual enemies made a supreme friendship, yet the thought of deceiving each other also arose in them.
12.138.205
तत्र प्राज्ञोऽभिसंधत्ते सम्यग्बुद्धिबलाश्रयात् ।
अभिसंधीयते प्राज्ञः प्रमादादपि वा बुधैः ॥ १२.१३८.२०५ ॥
There the wise man plots, relying on the strength of right judgment; and the wise man is also deceived, through carelessness or by the learned.
12.138.206
तस्मादभीतवद्भीतो विश्वस्तवदविश्वसेत् ।
न ह्यप्रमत्तश्चलति चलितोऽवा न नश्यति ॥ १२.१३८.२०६ ॥
Therefore one should be like one who is unafraid yet afraid, and like one who trusts yet does not trust; for the vigilant man does not waver, and even if he wavers he does not perish.
12.138.207
काले हि रिपुणा संधिः काले मित्रेण विग्रहः ।
कार्य इत्येव तत्वज्ञाः प्राहुर्नित्यं नराधिप ॥ १२.१३८.२०७ ॥
At the right time one should make peace with an enemy, and at the right time make war with a friend; so the knowers of truth have always said, O lord of men.
12.138.208
एतज्ज्ञात्वा महाराज शास्त्रार्थमभिगम्य च ।
अभियुक्तोऽप्रमत्तश्च प्राग्भयाद्भीतवच्चरेत् ॥ १२.१३८.२०८ ॥
Knowing this, O great king, and having grasped the meaning of the treatises, one who is pressed should remain vigilant and, before fear comes, conduct himself as one who is afraid.
12.138.209
भीतवत्संहितः कार्यः प्रतिसंधिस्तथैव च ।
भयादुत्पद्यते बुद्धिरप्रमत्ताभियोगजा ॥ १२.१३८.२०९ ॥
One should form alliances as one who is afraid, and likewise make counter-agreements; from fear itself arises the intelligence born of vigilant effort.
12.138.210
न भयं जायते राजन्भीतस्यानागते भये ।
अभीतस्य च विस्रम्भात्सुमहज्जायते भयम् ॥ १२.१३८.२१० ॥
O king, fear does not arise in one who is afraid for a danger yet to come; but for one who is unafraid, from trust, a very great fear arises.
12.138.211
न भीरुरिति चात्यन्तं मन्त्रो देयः कथंचन ।
अविज्ञानाद्धि विज्ञाने गच्छेदास्पददर्शनाम् ॥ १२.१३८.२११ ॥
One should never entrust one's counsel completely to a man, thinking him a coward. From ignorance one comes to knowledge, and so comes to see the place of danger.
12.138.212
तस्मादभीतवद्भीतो विश्वस्तवदविश्वसन् ।
कार्याणां गुरुतां ज्ञात्वा नादृतं किंचिदाचरेत् ॥ १२.१३८.२१२ ॥
Therefore, one who fears should act as if fearless, and one who is trusted should act as if distrustful. Knowing the weight of affairs, one should not carry out anything carelessly.
12.138.213
एवमेतन्मया प्रोक्तमितिहासं युधिष्ठिर ।
श्रुत्वा त्वं सुहृदां मध्ये यथावत्समुदाचर ॥ १२.१३८.२१३ ॥
Thus, Yudhiṣṭhira, I have told you this legend. Having heard it, conduct yourself rightly in the midst of your friends.
12.138.214
उपलभ्य मतिं चाग्र्यामरिमित्रान्तरं तथा ।
संधिविग्रहकालौ च मोक्षोपायं तथाऽऽपदि ॥ १२.१३८.२१४ ॥
Having gained supreme judgment, understanding the difference between enemy and friend, recognizing the proper time for peace and for war, and knowing the means of escape in calamity, so act.
12.138.215
शत्रुसाधारणे कृत्ये कृत्वा सन्धिं बलीयसा ।
समागतश्चरेद्बुद्ध्या कृतार्थो न च विश्वसेत् ॥ १२.१३८.२१५ ॥
In a matter common even to enemies, having made a truce with the stronger and come together, one should act with wisdom; and even when the aim is achieved, one should not trust him.
12.138.216
अविरुद्धां त्रिवर्गेण नीतिमेतां महीपते ।
अभ्युत्तिष्ठ श्रुतात्तस्माद्भूयः संरञ्जयन्प्रजाः ॥ १२.१३८.२१६ ॥
O lord of the earth, follow this policy, which is not opposed to the three aims of life (dharma, artha and kāma). Having heard it, rise up, and again gladden your subjects.
12.138.217
ब्राह्मणैश्चापि ते सार्धं यात्रा भवतु पाण्डव ।
ब्राह्मणाद्धि परं श्रेयो दिवि चेह च भारत ॥ १२.१३८.२१७ ॥
O Pāṇḍava, may your course be with the brahmins too, for greater welfare than from a brahmin, in heaven and here, O Bhārata.
12.138.218
एते धर्मस्य वेत्तारः कृतज्ञाः सततं प्रभो ।
पूजिताः शुभकर्तारः पूजयैनाञ्जाधिप ॥ १२.१३८.२१८ ॥
These are knowers of dharma, always grateful, doers of good. Honored, O lord, honor them too, O ruler.
12.138.219
राज्यं श्रेयः परं राजन्यशश्च महदाप्स्यसे ।
कुलस्य संततिं चैव यथान्यायं यथाक्रमम् ॥ १२.१३८.२१९ ॥
O king, you will obtain the supreme welfare of kingship and great fame, and the line of your family will continue rightly and in due order.
12.138.220
श्रुतं च ते भारत संधिविग्रहं ।
विभावितं बुद्धिविशेषकारितम्।
तथा त्ववेक्ष्य क्षितिपेन सर्वदा ।
निषेवितव्यं नृप शत्रुमण्डलम् ॥ १२.१३८.२२० ॥
You have heard of peace and war, O Bhārata, devised by special intelligence. So, O king, a ruler must always weigh things carefully and deal with the circle of enemies.