Vana Parva



Chapter One



The First Days of Exile



After leaving the city of Hastinapura, the Pandavas traveled north and
eventually came to the bank of the Ganges. They were being followed by many
pious citizens who could not bear separation from those saintly kings. The
citizens of Hastinapura did not want to live in a kingdom where Duryodhana and
his followers ruled. They thus petitioned the Pandavas, "All blessings upon the
sons of Pandu! Where will you now go, leaving us in grief? We are distressed
learning that your kingdom has deceitfully been taken away by the conniving
Duryodhana. It behooves you not to forsake us, because we are your loving
subjects. Deterioration of good qualities will certainly manifest by living in
the kingdom of the Kuru king, Duryodhana. Please listen as we describe the
merits and demerits from association with what is good and what is bad. As
cloth, water, earth, and sesame seeds are scented by association with ˙lowers,
similarly we are endowed with good qualities as a product of your association.
Association with fools produces an illusion that entangles the mind; but daily
communion with the pious and wise leads one toward the path of liberation.
Therefore, those that desire emancipation should associate with those who are
devoted to God, and are wise, honest, pure in conduct and prone toward
asceticism. Those persons should be served whose knowledge and actions are all
pure, and this association is superior to study of the scriptures. Devoid of
religious acts as we are, we shall gain religious merit by association with the
righteous, just as one would engage in sin by associating with the sinful. The
very sight, touch, association, or conversation with the dishonest causes one
to lose purity of mind. Association with base persons impairs spiritual growth,
whereas association with self realized souls exalts it. Those attributes found
in the Vedas pertaining to religious qualities and extolled by the wise exist
simultaneously in you. O sons of Pandu, because we desire our own welfare, and
because you possess all exalted qualities, we wish to live with you in the
forest."

King Yudhisthira knew that the citizens could not follow his term of exile in
the forest, and compassionately he addressed them, "Dear citizens, we are
certainly blessed that you, who are moved by affection and compassion, credit
us with merits we do not possess. Your affection for us can never be forgotten,
and we also are always thinking of your welfare. We request one thing from you,
and we hope you will consent to our desire. You should not, through affection
and pity, act otherwise. Our nearest relatives are very much aggrieved by our
absence. Bhishma, Drona, the King, my mother Kunti and many others are
overwhelmed by separation and need solace. Therefore, if you are inclined to
please us, serve their every need. Grieved at our departure, you have come a
far distance. Please go back, and set your hearts towards serving these great
souls. This, above all other things, is the one thing that causes me anxiety;
and by showing concern for the Kuru elders, you would bestow upon me peace of
mind and pay me the highest regard."

Thus requested in such a humble way by King Yudhisthira, the citizens cried
loudly, exclaiming, "Alas, O King, how will we live without you!" Afflicted and
overwhelmed with certain separation, the pious citizens, tears of love falling
from their eyes, remembered the virtues of Kunti's sons, and unwillingly
retraced their steps back to Hastinapura. The citizens were unwilling to leave
King Yudhisthira's association, but out of love for the King, they did what he
asked.

Almost all the citizens returned to Hastinapura with the exception of certain
brahmanas who could not be persuaded to go back. They spent that night with the
Pandavas in the forest by the bank of the celestial Ganges. Yudhisthira felt
that he could not fulfill the needs of those pious brahmanas to his
satisfaction, and therefore, he humbly requested them, "Our kingdom has been
plundered in gambling, and we do not possess anything. We are inhabitants of
the forest and are dependent on begging for our sustenance. This forest is also
full of dangers. Myself and my brothers are distressed at the loss of our
kingdom and the insults to our queen Draupadi. I cannot say that we would be
able to support you with food on a daily basis."

"There should be no anxiety on your part, O King," the brahmanas replied, "for
we shall find our own food in the forest. We cannot give up your company for
you are religion personified. We are devoted to saintly persons, and we wish to
help you in every way."

"Without doubt, it must be as you say," Yudhisthira said, "for I am ever
pleased with the association of saintly persons. However, how will I be able to
see such worshipful persons, who do not deserve to endure any kind of hardship,
subsisting on food found in the forest? O shame upon the wicked sons of
Dhritarastra!"

After contemplating the situation, Yudhisthira went to his priest, Dhaumya and
inquired "These brahmanas are following us to the forest out of affection. At
the present moment we are burdened with many calamities, and I am unable to
support them. Tell me, O holy one, what should I do in this circumstance?"

"The sun god Vivasvan is the source of all food grains and vitality on earth,"
Dhaumya replied. "If you worship and pray to him, he will certainly show you
his favor."

Yudhisthira, desiring the brahmanas welfare, followed the instructions of
Dhaumya, and sat down to begin his meditation upon the Sun God Vivasvan. He
fasted from any food or drink. After some time he entered the Ganges and
remained in that position, half submerged in the water. He worshiped the sun
god with prayers and survived only on air. Very soon the Sun God Vivasvan was
pleased with Yudhisthira and appeared before him. The Sun God offered a boon,
"O King Yudhisthira, all your desires will be fulfilled. I shall provide you
with food for this thirteen year period. Accept this copper pot which shall
fulfill your needs. Whatever little amount is cooked in this pot in the form of
fruits, vegetables, milk products and grains will become inexhaustible. It will
last only as long as Draupadi has not eaten her meal from it. All good fortune
to you, King Yudhisthira. After your term of exile is finished, I shall see you
regain your kingdom." Vivasvan then disappeared.

After receiving this benediction from the Sun God, Yudhisthira rose from the
water, touched the feet of Dhaumya and embraced his brothers. He went to
Draupadi and told her the potency of the copper pot bestowed upon him by the
Sun God. Yudhisthira then personally prepared the evening meal consisting of
four different kinds of food. With only a little food prepared, he fed the
entire host of brahmanas. By the mystic power of the copper pot the small
amount of food multiplied. There was also enough to satisfy the hungry Bhima,
his other brothers and himself. When Draupadi had finally eaten her portion,
the pot became exhausted.

After the Pandavas had entered the forest, the blind King Dhritarastra called
for his brother Vidura, and inquired from him, "O Vidura, you are conversant
with the laws of morality, and you look on all the Kauravas with an equal eye.
Please give advice on the proper course of action for myself and my sons.
According to providence things have now taken their course. What should we do
now? How may I secure the goodwill of the citizens so that they may not destroy
us at the roots?"

"The three purposes of life: profit, pleasure and salvation have their
foundation in virtue," Vidura replied. "Therefore, O monarch, to the best of
your ability treat equally the sons of Pandu and your own sons. You should
return to the Pandavas what was taken away by the sinful Duryodhana. If you do
this, your son may again take his position among honest men. A king should be
content with what he has acquired by his own endeavors and never desire
another's possessions. Your prime duty is to chastise Shakuni and to reinstate
the Pandavas in their proper status. If you do not do this, then certainly this
dynasty will meet with disaster. Abandon this child of yours, Duryodhana, for
the good of your dynasty. Putting Duryodhana aside, coronate Yudhisthira as the
King of the earth. Yudhisthira is known as Ajatrashatru or one who was born
without an enemy. He will be able to rule this world free from passion.
Duryodhana, Shakuni and Karna should be subordinate to the the Pandavas, and
Duhshasana, in open court, should beg forgiveness from Draupadi and Bhimasena.
If you follow this course of action, then all the citizens of the earth will
offer homage to the Kuru dynasty. You have asked me how to counsel you, and I
have given the proper answer."

"This counsel favors the Pandavas over my son," Dhritarastra said. "My mind
does not approve of this. How can I abandon my son for the sons of Pandu? The
Pandavas are certainly to be protected like my sons, but Duryodhana has come
from my body. How can I renounce my body for the sake of others. O Vidura, your
counsel is crooked. You may either stay or go as you like. I have no more
affection for you." Dhritarastra then rose and left. Vidura thought, "The
dynasty is doomed." He decided to join the Pandavas in the forest.

The Pandavas had left the banks of the Ganges and proceeded to the Yamuna
River. After crossing that sacred river, which was the play area of Lord
Krishna in His youth, the Pandavas headed in a westerly direction. On the banks
of the Saraswati river they saw the forest of Kamyaka. They decided to spend
some time there. Vidura learned about their location and followed their path
through the forest; soon, he found them. Yudhisthira was excited to see his
uncle. Vidura was moved with compassion at the sight of the Pandavas, and
Yudhisthira had to comfort him with sweet words. Vidura then told Yudhisthira
about the argument he had with his brother, which caused him to come to the
forest. Yudhisthira was happy to have Vidura with him, and immediately made
arrangements for his comfort.

Meanwhile, in Hastinapura King Dhritarastra began to regret the argument he
had with Vidura. He felt keen separation from Vidura, whom he loved much and
who always gave him good counsel. Feeling as if he could not live without
Vidura, he ordered Sanjaya to find Vidura and bring him back to the palace.
Following the instructions of the King, Sanjaya ascended a chariot and began
his search for Vidura. He found him in the Kamyaka forest and humbly begged him
on behalf of his blind brother to return to the palace. Vidura felt it was his
duty to try to save Dhritarastra, and thus he returned to Hastinapura.

Hearing that Vidura had returned and that the King had pacified him,
Duryodhana began to burn in grief. He called for Shakuni, Karna and Duhshasana,
and expressed his evil intentions, "The learned Vidura has returned to the
palace. He is always seeking the welfare of my enemies. If he again induces the
King to call the Pandavas back to this city, I will take poison and kill
myself. I will never again see the Pandavas in opulence."

Wanting to comfort Duryodhana, Shakuni said, "O King, do not think in this
way. The Pandavas will never come back from the forest for they are righteous
men and always keep their vows. Even if the King calls them back, they will not
come, for they are bound by the cord of the thirteen year exile."

Karna then advised Duryodhana in a way that bolstered his heart, "Please hear
my opinion, O kings of the earth. Now is the time to put on armor, and taking
up our weapons, kill the sons of Pandu as they live in the forest. When they
are dead, then all in the palace will find peace." These sinful men, overcome
by the influence of time, applauded Karna's words, and thus they started to
execute their evil plan.

While these unprincipled men were conniving to kill the Pandavas, the great
sage Krishna Dvaipayana Vyasa, the father of Dhritarastra, came to the palace.
He immediately ordered them to desist from the heinous act in which they were
about to engage. Vyasa then went to Dhritarastra and informed him, "O wise
King, hear what I have to say! I will tell you what is salutary for the whole
Kuru dynasty. I am not pleased that Pandu's sons have gone to the forest after
being dishonestly defeated in gambling. O descendent of Bharata, when the end
of the thirteenth year comes, the sons of your brother will shower
death-dealing weapons like virulent poison. Why does your son, who has a wicked
heart, seek to kill the Pandavas? He is a fool and should be restrained. In
attempting to kill the Pandavas while they are in the forest, he will lose his
own life. You should stop him from executing any further actions such as this
one. Better let Duryodhana accompany the Pandavas in the forest, and if by
chance they become attached to your son, then there will be good fortune in
your family."

"O holy one," Dhritarastra replied to his father, "I did not like the idea of
this gambling match, but I think I was made to consent to it by the will of
providence. None of the members of the court agreed with what happened. And yet
knowing everything and its consequence, I am unable to throw away my senseless
son, because of my fatherly affection. If, however, you offer words of
chastisement, maybe he will listen."

"The great sage Maitreya has come from the forest after visiting the
Pandavas," Vyasadeva said. "He desires to talk with you, and also to influence
your son. If you follow his advice, you will prosper, but if you neglect his
words of wisdom, he will curse your son." Having said this much, Vyasadeva left
the palace.

There then arrived at the entrance of the imperial court the great sage
Maitreya. Dhritarastra greeted him warmly and worshiped him according to his
position. Hearing that he had come from the Kamyaka forest, Dhritarastra
inquired about the Pandavas. The great sage Maitreya replied, "Yes, I have seen
the Pandavas in my travels on pilgrimage. I was surprised to see the great King
Yudhisthira dressed in deerskin and wearing matted hair. I was shocked to see
this and to hear what had happened because of this dice game. How could this
have happened in your presence and in the presence of Bhishma? Because of this
unscrupulous act, you have lost your reputation."

Then turning to Duryodhana, the great sage spoke compassionately, "O mighty
armed prince, listen to my words. O King, do not seek a quarrel with the
Pandavas. Those tigers among men are great heroes on the battlefield. Do you
not remember that Bhima killed the powerful Jarasandha, who possessed the
strength of ten thousand elephants? Bhima has also killed the very powerful
Hidimva and Baka, and recently he has killed the great Rakshasa Kirmira. The
Pandavas are related to Lord Krishna and have as their allies King Drupada and
his followers. Do not think you can win such a war. It is better to make peace
with the Pandavas and live happily in your kingdom."

While Maitreya was speaking beneficial words, Duryodhana listened with a smirk
on his face. He hit his thigh again and again, and scratched the floor with his
toes, not caring for the words of the Rishi. Maitreya, seeing the insolent
behavior of the prince, thought of cursing him. With angry red eyes, he touched
water and spoke the following condemnation, "Since you have ignored my advice,
you will suffer the result. In a great war that will come after the term of
exile, I say that Bhima will fulfill his vow and smash your thighs with a
single stroke of his mace." When the muni had spoken this curse, Dhritarastra
tried to pacify him, but his attempts were futile. Maitreya finally relented,
"If Duryodhana makes peace with the Pandavas, my curse will not take effect;
otherwise, it will act just as I have said."

The blind King, desirous of knowing Bhima's strength, wanted to hear about
Kirmira's death, but the sage was angry and refused, "Vidura knows about how
Bhima killed Kirmira. He will inform you of this event." After cursing
Dhritarastra's son, the eminent sage left the palace.

Dhritarastra was very anxious to hear about the death of the powerful
Rakshasa, Kirmira. He then inquired from Vidura, "O Vidura, I want to hear how
the Rakshasa Kirmira, who had no equal, was slain by Bhima."

"Listen, O King," Vidura replied, "as I relate these events. Formerly blessed
sages and brahmanas inhabited the forest of Kamyaka, but due to the presence of
the Rakshasas, they could not live there peacefully. When the Pandavas
attempted to enter the forest of Kamyaka, a frightful Rakshasa appeared before
them blocking their path. There were eight teeth protruding out of his mouth,
and his eyes were the color of flaming copper. The hair on his head was red
like fire and stood erect in a fearful way. He was roaring loudly, petrifying
all living creatures in the forest. The movements of his steps caused the very
earth to tremble, and all the animals in the forest fled in terror. A violent
wind arose, and dust scattered in all directions. Seeing the Pandavas were
fearless in his presence, he obstructed their path, appearing like a huge
mountain before them. Draupadi closed her eyes in horror, and her husbands
surrounded her for protection. Dhaumya, who possessed great mystic power,
chanted various mantras, destroying the fearful illusion created by the demon.
With the illusion dispelled, the mighty Rakshasa expanded his eyes in rage,
seeming like death personified to all living creatures. King Yudhisthira then
inquired from the demon, 'Who are you and tell us why you are obstructing our
path?''I am the brother of Baka' Kirmira replied, 'and the friend of Hidimva.
My name is Kirmira. I am the lord of this Kamyaka forest, and I obtain my food
by daily subjugating men in battle. By killing all of you, I shall feast on
your flesh and blood. Who are you, and for what reason have you come to the
Kamyaka forest?' Yudhisthira then informed the man eater, 'I am King
Yudhisthira, the son of Pandu, and these are my brothers, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula
and Sahadeva. I have been deprived of my kingdom and have now entered the
forest for the period of thirteen years.'

Vidura continued, "Kirmira said to Yudhisthira, 'It is by good luck that fate
has fulfilled all my desires. With my upraised weapons, I have been searching
the earth to revenge the death of my brother Baka. I have been searching for
Bhima, but now I see that he is present before me in the dress of a brahmana.
Bhima has slain my brother, but truly I say that he is a coward, for he killed
my brother Baka when he was hungry and weak. Bhima also killed Hidimva in the
same way, and then by force he stole his sister. This fool has now come into
the forest in the middle of the night when the Rakshasas are most powerful. By
slaying this cruel Bhima, I will be freed from the debt I owe to my brother and
my friends. I will kill Bhima and devour him before your very eyes!'

"When threatened by Kirmira, the pious Yudhisthira exclaimed, 'It can never be
as you say.' The first son of Kunti then began to chastise the Rakshasa with
strong words. Provoked by Kirmira's words, the mighty armed Bhima uprooted a
tree thirty feet in height, clipping it of its branches and leaves. In a
twinkling of an eye, Arjuna strung his Gandiva bow and stood ready for action.
Bhima told Arjuna to stand aside and approached the Rakshasa challenging,
'Stand your ground! Do not flee!' Bhima then brought the tree down upon the
head of the Rakshasa. Kirmira, however, did not move nor did he seem affected
by that blow. The Rakshasa also uprooted a tree and approached Bhima, swinging
it with all his might. It appeared like the mace of Yamaraja, but had no effect
on Bhima. Bhima and the Rakshasa uprooted all the trees in that area with the
intent of killing each other. When neither of those mighty armed heroes could
defeat the other with trees, Kirmira tore up a huge boulder and flung it at
Bhima. The boulder, however, bounced off Bhima's head, not harming him in the
least. The Rakshasa then rushed at Bhima with his outstretched arms, intending
to crush him to death. Bhima and the Rakshasa wrestled one another and struck
one another with their fists that were as strong as thunderbolts. Remembering
his hatred for Duryodhana and looking for some way to release that anger, Bhima
seized the Rakshasa with his robust arms, throwing him on the ground with great
ferocity. He then grabbed him by the waist and began to whirl him around till
he became senseless. Lifting Kirmira up, he bounced him off the ground. The
Rakshasa had become weak, and Bhima, grabbing him by the arms, squeezed him
with all his strength. In great anxiety the Rakshasa screamed with his mouth
wide open, causing the whole earth to tremble. He began to vomit blood, and his
whole body was a mass of broken bones. Bhima then threw him on the ground, and
placing his knee on his stomach and his hands around his neck, he strangled the
Rakshasa to death. Upon witnessing the superhuman strength of Bhima, his
brothers were struck with wonder and glorified his prowess. After the death of
this terrible ogre, they then set out along with the brahmanas for the
Dwaitavana forest.

Vidura said, "Thus Kirmira was slain by that king of the warriors, Bhimasena.
As I was passing through the forest I saw the broken body of that fearless
Rakshasa. I have heard of this achievement from the brahmanas present with
Yudhisthira." Hearing the account of Kirmira's slaughter, King Dhritarastra
sighed in sorrow and became absorbed in fearful thought.

Thus Ends The First Chapter of the Vana Parva, Entitled, The First Days of
Exile.



Chapter Commentary



This feeling of intense separation that the citizens of Hastinapura felt for
the Pandavas reminds one of when the great Lord Ramachandra was exiled to the
forest by his father. Lord Rama is one of the incarnations of Lord Krishna, who
appeared in the Treta yuga many millennia ago. At the time of Lord Rama's exile
the citizens of Ayodhya also accompanied Lord Ramachandra to the forest unable
to bear the separation of that great king. They considered the forest a better
place to reside as long as Lord Ramachandra was there. They did not think
living in Ayodhya with Kaikeyi to be of any value. The citizens of Ayodhya
considered Ayodhya uninhabitable as long as Lord Ramachandra was there.

The value of association with the Lord and His devotees can never be
minimized. Therefore, the holy scriptures state that one moment's association
with a pure devotee of the Lord can guarantee one's success in life. Why is
that? The reason is that hearing about the holy name, form and pastimes of the
Supreme Lord Krishna from a pure devotee can give one the seed of pure
devotional service by which one can attain pure love of God, the necessary item
for entering the kingdom of God. If a fortunate person gets the seed of pure
devotion and waters the seed, it will fructify into into a creeper that will
take shelter of the lotus feet of the Lord and bear the fruit of loving
devotion.

Real association with a devotee means to follow his instructions. There are
two kinds of association with the spiritual master. One is by vapu or personal
association and the other is by vani or instructions. Of the two, following the
instructions of the spiritual master is the most important, for by this
process, one will come to realize the personal presence of the spiritual
master. The citizens of Hastinapura were right in following King Yudhisthira's
order to return to Hastinapura and give solace to Kuru elders.

When Lord Chaitanya was traveling through south India, he met the Kurma
brahmana. This brahmana was a householder who came to love Lord Chaitanya very
much. In fact when the Lord left his village, he wanted to renounce everything
and follow the Lord. However, the Lord instructed him, "Whoever you meet and
whoever you see, instruct them in the message of Bhagavad-gita and
Srimad-Bhagavatam. In this way you will always have my association." (C.C.
Madhya lila) Lord Chaitanya gave this same instruction to all those whom He met
on His South Indian tour. Personal association is not as important as following
the instructions of the spiritual master.

The Pandavas were always under the protection of Lord Krishna. They were
blessed whether they were in the forest or their opulent kingdom. A devotee can
live anywhere and always think of Krishna. When a devotee always keeps the Lord
in his heart, he can turn hell into heaven. A devotee of the Lord is actually a
holy place personified, because he has realized the presence of the Lord in his
heart and in the heart of all living beings. This is confirmed in
Bhagavad-gita, "The yogi who knows that I and the Supersoul in all creatures
are one worships Me and remains always within me in all circumstances." (B.g.
6.31)

The cause of Duryodhana was doomed. Just as one receives the seed of devotion
and it fructifies into love of God in due course, so also one can plant the
seed of offenses and sins; and in due course the seed will fructify and produce
the sour fruits of suffering, misfortune and misery. Duryodhana had planted the
seed offenses already by trying to poison Bhima, by trying to burn the Pandavas
in a house of lac, by stealing away their kingdom, and by offending Draupadi.
He kept watering the original seed of sin by more offenses. In this chapter
Duryodhana has offended Maitreya Rishi, for which act Duryodhana is cursed by
the Rishi to die by Bhima's mace. He has also displeased Srila Vyasadeva and
been labeled a fool. In a previous chapter Narada also cursed the cause of
Duryodhana. Although it appears that Duryodhana has won sovereignty of the
whole world, his plant of sin will soon fructify into the fruits of suffering
when he faces the Pandavas in the Kurukshetra war.



Sabha Parva



Chapter Two



Lord Krishna Visits the Pandavas



When Lord Krishna heard that the Pandavas had been cheated out of their
kingdom by gambling, He went to the Kamyaka forest. He was accompanied by
Dhristadyumna, Dhristaketu, the Bhojas, the Vrishnis and the Andakas. They were
angered about the deceitful gambling match in Hastinapura and were ready to
help Yudhisthira regain his kingdom. They offered respect to Yudhisthira that
was due to an emperor. Seated in that assembly like the moon amongst the stars,
Lord Krishna addressed the assembled kings, "The earth shall drink the blood of
Duryodhana, Karna, Duhshasana, and the wicked Shakuni. After slaying these men
in battle along with their allied soldiers, we will make Yudhisthira the
emperor of this earth. The wicked deserve to be slain. My reason for being on
earth is to establish the proper religious principles for all human beings."

Lord Krishna's anger increased as He thought of the offenses committed by the
Kurus. He seemed bent upon annihilating the miscreants. Understanding the anger
of Lord Krishna, Arjuna spoke to pacify Him, "O slayer of Madhu, material
qualities like anger, envy, and cruelty can never exist in You. O Supreme Lord,
who knows no deterioration, all saintly persons and rishis seek Your
protection. It is only You who exists after the annihilation when this universe
is drawn into Your own self. O thou of the Vrishni race, at the beginning of
the millennium Brahma was born from Your navel on a lotus flower. He in turn
created all mobile and immobile things. When the dreadful demons Madhu and
Kaitava were bent on slaying Brahma, You became angry; and from Your forehead,
Shambu (Lord Shiva) took his birth. Thus those two foremost deities have sprung
from Your body in order to execute Your order. O Lord of all lords, I know this
to be truth because it was Narada who instructed me. O Narayana, O God, O thou
with eyes like lotus petals, the deeds You have performed while still a boy
testify to Your unlimited power. Baladeva and Yourself have executed super
human activities that have never been performed by others, nor in the future
will they be performed by others."

Thus Arjuna glorified Lord Krishna, and the lotus eyed Lord, glancing lovingly
at His devotee, responded, "My dear Arjuna, you are Mine, and I am also yours.
All that belongs to Me also belongs to you. He that hates you, hates Me as
well, and he that follows you also follows Me. O great soul, you are Nara, and
I am Narayana. We are the rishis Nara and Narayana born in this mortal world
for a special purpose. O Partha, we are inseparable, and no one can understand
the difference that is between us."

When Draupadi heard Lord Krishna's words of love for Arjuna, she broke down in
tears. Remembering how He had saved her from an embarrassing situation, she
fell at His feet and offered humble prayers, "O Krishna, the great sages such
as Asita and Devala have spoken of You as the cause of all causes and the
creator of this manifested world. The great sage Jamadagni, the father of
Parasurama, has said that You are Vishnu, the Lord of all created beings, both
human and celestial. You are sacrifice, the performer of the sacrifice and the
object of sacrifice. O foremost of all beings, O Lord of Lords, the great sage
Narada has spoken of You as the master of all other deities, including Shiva
and Brahma, whom You sport with as children sport with toys. O exalted one, the
firmament is Your head and the lower planets are Your feet. The three worlds
are in Your womb and this entire universe is Your body. You are the object of
meditation and worship by all the great sages and brahmanas. O chief of all
male beings, You are the only shelter for royal sages, who are devoted to
virtuous acts, who never turn their backs in battle, and who have fulfilled
their religious obligations. You are omnipresent, the soul of all things, and
the active power pervading everything. The heavenly lords, heaven itself, the
stellar conjunctions, the ten points of the horizon, the firmament, the moon
and the sun are all established in You. All immoral and moral activities
emanate from You.

"O slayer of Madhu, impelled by the affection You bear towards me, I will
relate to You my grief. O Krishna, how could one like me, the wife of the
Pandavas, the sister of Dhristadyumna and Your friend, be dragged into that
assembly of sinful men. Those despicable men in the court at Hastinapura
dragged me into their presence and attempted to strip me. The sinful Duhshasana
touched my sanctified hair and pulled on my sari. None of the Kuru elders would
help me, nor would my husbands do anything. O fie on the strength of Bhima and
the Gandiva of Arjuna! They suffered me to be disgraced by small minded men. My
husbands never forsake persons who ask their protection, and yet they abandoned
me who requested it. Why do those who are gifted with strength in this assembly
sit indifferently, beholding my afflicted state? Why do I have to burn in grief
for so long? O my Lord, it was by Your causeless mercy that I was saved from
that embarrassing situation. By remembering Your lotus feet, I was saved from
the greatest danger. You are truly the only shelter in this dangerous material
world, and You, my Lord, are the only one who can give all beings protection.
You are the father, mother, grandsire, husband, and worshipable deity. O
Krishna, we are now in another dangerous situation, having been exiled to the
forest. Please give us Your protection."

Having spoken these words full of devotion and grief, Draupadi hid her face in
her soft hands and began to weep. Tears fell from her lotus-like eyes, and the
Supreme Lord, who is very kind to His devotees, pacified her with sweet words,
"O chaste lady, the wives of those who have insulted you, shall weep. Soon you
will see those men who have offended you lying on the ground, filled with
Arjuna's arrows. Do not cry, O princess. You will soon see Yudhisthira crowned
king, and the sinners punished for their crimes. You shall again be the queen
of Kings. The heavens may fall; mount Himavat may crack; and the oceans may dry
up, but My words will never prove to be futile."

After hearing the promise of Lord Achyuta, Draupadi glanced at Arjuna waiting
for a response. And Arjuna understanding what she wanted said, "O lady with
coppery eyes, do not grieve about these offenses committed against you. What
the slayer of Madhu has said will certainly come to pass. It will not be
otherwise."

Supporting Lord Krishna's vow, Dhristadyumna said, "My sister, do not cry. I
promise you that I will kill Drona; Shikhandi will kill Bhishma; Bhima will
kill Duryodhana, and Karna will be killed by Arjuna. Assisted by Balarama and
Krishna, we are invincible in battle. The sons of Dhritarastra will not
survive."

In the presence of all assembled, Lord Krishna informed King Yudhisthira, "If
I had not been preoccupied with protecting Dvaraka, then this evil would have
never befallen you. O irrepressible one, I would have attended this gambling
match even without the invitation of Dhritarastra or Duryodhana. I would have
prevented the gambling match from taking place by showing its many evils.
Supported by Bhishma, Drona, Kripa and Bahlika, I would have prevented these
offenses from taking place. Womanizing, drinking, hunting, and gambling have
been regarded as the four evils by which a man loses all prosperity. I would
have pointed these evils out and their attendant miseries. If Dhritarastra had
rejected my counsel, offered as medicine, then I would have compelled him by
force. And if those who wait at his court professing to be his friends had
supported him, then I would have slain them all. O Yudhisthira, O justice
personified, it was due to My being preoccupied in protecting Dvaraka that you
have fallen into such distress. It was only after a fierce battle with Shalva
that I learned from Satyaki about this calamity. And, O foremost of kings,
after hearing about your exile I immediately came here to assist you."

"O slayer of Madhu," King Yudhisthira inquired, "what happened at the city of
Dvaraka that it had to be protected?"

"While I was attending the Rajasuya sacrifice in Hastinapura," Lord Krishna
explained, "King Shalva attacked Dvarakapuri. Previously, he had attended the
wedding ceremony of Rukmini in which she was to be married to Shishupala. When
I kidnapped the beautiful Rukmini, Shalva fought with the Yadu dynasty and was
defeated. At that time he took a vow that he would destroy all My family
members. He worshiped Lord Shiva and received a benediction of an airplane
called Saubha. This airplane could not be destroyed by any demigod, demon,
human being, Gandharva, Naga, or even by any Rakshasa. The airplane could also
fly anywhere and everywhere, and he strongly desired that it be a great danger
to the Yadu dynasty. Lord Shiva agreed to the request of Shalva, and the demon
Maya helped him to manufacture the airplane. It was more like a flying city
than an airplane, and it could fly so high and at such a great speed that no
one could see where it was. When Shalva had acquired this airplane, he decided
to attack Dvaraka. When the demon heard of the death of his friend Shishupala
at the Rajasuya sacrifice, he was overpowered with resentment. He organized his
divisions and attacked Dvaraka City. Not only did he attack Dvaraka from the
air, but he also laid siege to My city from the ground with numerous troops.
His army began to destroy the beautiful points of the city, and the members of
the Yadu dynasty were immediately called to battle.

"Dvaraka City was well fortified; the walls of the city were high and thick;
there were turrets at the top of the walls furnished with different kinds of
weapons for repulsing the enemy. There were cannons and machines that could
hurl fire, liquid metal, huge metal balls and dangerous bullets. The city was
also defended by numerous chariot fighters, who were fearless in the face of
the enemy. King Ugrasena had been contemplating an attack from Shalva, and thus
he had the bridges destroyed. The trenches around the city were spiked with
poles. Mines were laid around the city, and the ground was dug up so that it
was uneven in all directions. No one was allowed in or out of the city with out
the proper password. Thus Dvaraka was defended by the intelligent King
Ugrasena.

"Shalva attacked Dvaraka from the sky and began to shower slabs of stone, tree
trunks, thunderbolts and poisonous snakes. Shalva also managed to create such a
strong whirlwind that the city of Dvaraka was covered in dust. The inhabitants
of Dvaraka were in such distress that they were not peaceful even for a moment.
The great heroes of Dvaraka City, headed by commanders such as Pradyumna,
counterattacked the soldiers and the airplane of Shalva. Following the command
of Pradyumna, many warriors such as Satyaki, Carudeshna, Samba, Akrura,
Kritavarma, Bhanuvinda, Gada, Suka and Sharana--all came out of the city to
fight with Shalva. All of them were maharathis; and assisted by thousands of
warriors, they came out of the city to fight with Shalva. Fierce fighting began
between the two armies, exactly as was carried on between the demigods and
demons.

Lord Krishna continued, "O King, the demon Kshemavriddhi attacked my son Samba
and tried to overcome him with his arrows. However, Samba countered with a
thousand arrows, driving him from the field of battle. After that mighty
general had retreated, a demon named Vegavat attacked My son. Samba held his
ground; and taking up a powerful mace, he hurled it at Vegavat. When hit by
that mace, the demon fell to the ground dead. Meanwhile, one of Shalva's
generals named Vivindhya attacked Pradyumna and covered him with arrows.
Pradyumna, the mighty son of Rukmini, fixed to his bow an arrow effulgent as
the sun and empowering it with the force of a thunderbolt released it at the
demon. When Vivindhya was struck by that weapon, he fell down to the ground, a
lifeless corpse.

"Upon seeing that his men were being defeated, Shalva advanced in his
airplane. The warriors of the Yadu dynasty were struck with fear upon seeing
that wonderful airplane. It was so extraordinary that sometimes there would
appear to be many airplanes in the sky. Sometimes they would see the airplane
in the sky, and sometimes they would see it on the ground. Sometimes they would
see it on the peak of a hill, and sometimes floating in the water. The
wonderful airplane would not stay steady even for a moment. Pradyumna
encouraged the members of the Yadu dynasty by vowing, 'Stand your ground and do
not fear this airplane. I shall, by the force of my arrows, stop the advance of
Shalva's creation. With the power of my weapons, I shall destroy the host of
demons that inhabit this airplane. Fear not, I will slay the lord of Saubha
today!' Thus encouraging his troops, Pradyumna attacked with greater force. The
arrows released by the members of the Yadu dynasty were as brilliant as the sun
and as deadly as the tongues of serpents.

"The commander in chief of Shalva's forces was Dyuman, and he was a great
warrior. Although stung by twenty-five of Pradyumna's arrows, he suddenly
attacked Pradyumna with his club and struck him so strongly that he fell to the
ground unconscious. Shalva's men roared with joy and exclaimed, 'Now, he is
dead! Now, he is dead!' The force of Dyuman's club was so severe that it would
have torn open the chest of an ordinary man.

Lord Krishna continued, "The chariot of Pradyumna was being driven by the son
of Daruka. According to Vedic military principles, the chariot driver and the
hero on the chariot have to cooperate during the fighting. As such, it is the
duty of the chariot driver to take care of the hero on the field of battle.
Thus, the son of Daruka removed Pradyumna from the battlefield. Two hours
later, he regained consciousness; and when he saw that he was not on the
battlefield, he began to chastise his charioteer, 'Oh, you have done the most
abominable act! Why have you moved me from the battlefield? My dear charioteer,
I have never heard that anyone in our family was ever removed from the
battlefield while in the midst of fighting. I accuse you of being a coward.
Tell me how I can go before my uncle, Balarama, and before my father, Krishna;
and what shall I say to them? Everyone will talk about me, and say that I fled
from the fighting place; and if they inquire from me about this, what will be
my reply? My sisters-in-law will play jokes upon me with sarcastic words. I
think, O charioteer, that you have committed a great offense by removing me
from the battlefield.'

"The son of Daruka replied, 'My dear hero, I wish a long life for you. I have
not done anything wrong, as it is the duty of the charioteer to help the
chariot fighter when he is in a precarious condition. My dear sir, you are
completely invincible in battlefield activities. It is the mutual duty of the
charioteer and the warrior to give protection to each other in a precarious
condition. I was completely aware of the regulative principles of fighting, and
I did my duty. The enemy all of a sudden struck you with his club so severely
that you lost consciousness. You were in a dangerous position, surrounded by
your enemies. Therefore, I was obliged to act as I did.'

Lord Krishna continued, "After talking with his charioteer, the son of Daruka,
Pradyumna could understand the real circumstances, and therefore he refreshed
himself by washing his mouth and hands. Arming himself properly with bows and
arrows, he asked his charioteer to take him near the place where Shalva's
commander in chief was engaged in combat. During the short absence of Pradyumna
from the battlefield, Dyuman, Shalva's commander-in-chief, had been pushing
back the soldiers of the Yadu dynasty. By appearing in the battlefield,
Pradyumna immediately stopped him and struck him with eight arrows. With four
arrows he killed his four horses, with one arrow he killed his chariot driver,
and with another arrow he cut his bow in two; with another arrow, he cut his
flag into pieces, and with another arrow he severed his head from his body.

"Pradyumna then attacked Shalva as he was fighting from his airplane. Seeing
the presence of My son on the field of battle, Shalva released a shower of
arrows that pierced the son of Daruka. Not minding those arrows, the son of
Daruka directed the chariot closer to where Shalva's airplane was hovering in
the sky. Shalva released more arrows, but they were cut to pieces before they
could reach his chariot. Shalva then resorted to mystic illusions and caused a
rain of terror on the battlefield. Pradyumna counteracted that illusion with
the Brahma weapon and then released his own arrows that pierced Shalva in the
head, chest, and face. Hit by those weapons the demon fell to the ground
unconscious. The son of Rukmini then fixed to his bowstring an arrow that was
as deadly as a venomous serpent. With this action all the warriors exclaimed,
'Alas, Alas!' Suddenly Narada appeared before Pradyumna and informed him, 'O
hero, Shalva is not to be slain by you! Do not release your arrow. It has been
ordained by providence that this demon will die by the weapon of Lord Krishna.'
With these words, Pradyumna withdrew the incantations for the arrow and placed
it back in his quiver. Meanwhile Shalva recovered from Pradyumna's arrows and
continued fighting the soldiers of the Yadu dynasty.

Lord Krishna continued, "After the completion of the Rajasuya sacrifice in
Indraprastha, I returned to Dvaraka just during the thick of the fighting. My
chariot was marked with the flag bearing the insignia of Garuda; and as soon as
the soldiers and warriors of the Yadu dynasty saw the flag, they could
understand that I was on the battlefield. By this time, almost all of Shalva's
soldiers had been killed; but when Shalva saw that I had come to the
battlefield, he released a great, powerful weapon which scorched through the
sky like a roaring meteor. It was so bright that the whole sky lit up by its
presence. But as soon as I saw the weapon, I tore it into hundreds and
thousands of pieces. I then struck Shalva with sixteen arrows; and with a
showers of arrows I overpowered the airplane, just as the sun in a clear sky
overpowers the whole sky by an unlimited number of molecules of sunshine.
Shalva struck a severe blow to my left side, where I was carrying My Sarnga
bow, and as a result the Sarnga bow fell from My hand.

"The sinful Shalva thought that he had become victorious, and with a roaring
sound began to address Me, 'You rascal, Krishna!. You kidnapped Rukmini
forcibly, even in my presence. You baffled my friend Shishupala and married
Rukmini Yourself. And in the great assembly at King Yudhisthira's Rajasuya
sacrifice, while my friend Shishupala was a little absentminded, You took an
opportunity to kill him. Everyone thinks that Your are a great fighter and that
no one can defeat You. So now You'll have to prove Your strength. I think that
if You stand before me any longer, with my sharpened arrows I shall send You to
a place wherefrom You will never return.' To that sinful person I replied,
'Foolish Shalva, your threats are simply nonsense. You do not know that the
moment of death is already upon your head. Those who are actually heroes do not
talk much. They prove their prowess by practical exhibition of chivalrous
activities.' After saying this, I struck Shalva on the collarbone with My club
so severely that he began to bleed internally and tremble as if he were going
to collapse from severe cold. Before I was able to strike him again, however,
Shalva became invisible by his mystic power.

"Within a few moments, a mysterious unknown man came before Me. Crying loudly,
he bowed down and informed Me, 'Since You are the most beloved son of Your
father Vasudeva, Your mother Devaki has sent me to inform You of the
unfortunate news that Your father has been arrested by Shalva and taken away by
force. He took him just as a butcher mercilessly takes away an animal.' When I
heard this unfortunate news from the unknown messenger, I thought, 'How could
that happen? My brother Lord Balarama is there, and it is impossible for anyone
to conquer Balaramaji. He is in charge of Dvaraka City, and I know He is always
alert. How could Shalva possibly enter the city and arrest My father in that
way? Whatever he may be, Shalva's power is limited, so how could it be possible
that he has conquered the strength of Balaramaji and taken away My father as
described by this man? Alas! Destiny is, after all, very powerful.'

"While I was thinking like this, Shalva brought before Me a man exactly
resembling Vasudeva, My father. These were all creations of the mystic power of
Shalva.

"Shalva then spoke to Me. 'You are a coward, Krishna! Look! This is Your
father who has begotten You, and by whose mercy You are still living. Now just
see how I kill Your father. If You have any strength, try to save him.' The
mystic juggler, Shalva, immediately cut off the head of the false Vasudeva.
Without hesitation he took away the dead body and got into his airplane. In the
next moment I could understand that the arrest and killing of My father were
demonstrations of the mystic powers which Shalva had learned from the demon
Maya, Coming to My senses, I could see that there was no messenger and no head
of My father, but that only Shalva had left in his airplane, which was flying
in the sky. I then began to think of slaying Shalva.

Lord Krishna continued, "When Shalva thought that I had been bewildered by his
mystic representations, he became encouraged and began to attack the Me with
greater strength and energy by showering volumes of arrows upon Me. By hurling
My arrows with lightning speed, I injured Shalva, whose armor, bow and jewelled
helmet all scattered into pieces. With a crashing blow from My club, Shalva's
wonderful airplane burst into pieces and fell into the ocean. Shalva was very
careful, and instead of crashing with the airplane, he managed to jump onto the
land. He again rushed towards Me. When Shalva ran swiftly to attack Me with his
club, I cut off his hand, which fell to the ground with the club. Finally
deciding to kill him, I took up My wonderful discus, which was shining like the
brilliant sun. I then cut off his head, and the head, with its earrings and
helmet, fell on the ground. Shalva was thus killed in the same way as
Vritrasura was killed by Indra, the King of heaven."

After relating to the Pandavas Shalva's death and the attack on Dvaraka city,
the Lord made preparations to return to Dvaraka. The slayer of Madhu offered
reverential respect to King Yudhisthira, and Bhima being older than Krishna
smelt the crown on His head out of affection. He was embraced by Arjuna and the
twins bowed down to him with reverence. Lord Krishna was duly honored by
Dhaumya and worshiped with tears by Draupadi. He then requested Subhadra and
Abhimanyu to ascend His chariot. After promising the Pandavas that He would
come to them whenever they called, He headed on His golden chariot for the city
of Dvaraka.



Thus Ends the Second Chapter of the Vana Parva, Entitled, Lord Krishna Visits
the Pandavas.



Chapter Commentary



Lord Krishna loved the Pandavas so much that He sometimes lived with them in
the forest. The Pandavas did not request Lord Krishna to relieve their
suffering condition. Yudhisthira accepted the loss of his kingdom as destiny
and did not complain to Lord Krishna. He could have requested Lord Krishna to
fight with Duryodhana and gain back his kingdom, but he didn't. A devotee can
accept any condition as the mercy of the Lord. The Pandavas are pure devotees
and eternal associates of the Lord; so one may ask why the Lord put them in
that condition of life? He did so to show the conditioned souls in this world
how to act in times of calamity. By setting the proper example common persons
will know how to act. Everyone in this world has been transmigrating through
many species of life. In the human form we have committed many sinful
activities for which we have to suffer. When a conditioned soul comes to
Krishna, the Lord takes his karma and minimizes it. The devotee only receives a
token reaction for his past sins and that is given directly by the Lord.
Therefore, a devotee should not complain, but thank the Lord for giving a small
punishment.

The Lord always promises to protect his devotees. In this chapter Lord Krishna
told Arjuna, "You are Mine, and I am yours....He who hates you, also hates Me,
and he who follows you, also follows Me." With this loving reciprocation, there
was no chance for Duryodhana to be victorious. Duryodhana could have had a
hundred or a thousand Bhishma's on his side; still he would have lost. When
Lord Krishna agrees to protect someone, nothing can harm that person. If Lord
Krishna does not protect someone, no one can save that person. Because Bhishma
did not take the side of the Pandavas, he was destined to die because he did
not receive the protection of Lord Krishna.



Vana Parva



Chapter Three



Arjuna Obtains the Celestial Weapons



The Pandavas spent many years in the forest, and it was difficult for Bhima to
tolerate the life of an ascetic. He would sometimes contemplate killing all of
the Kurus at once, but his brother Yudhisthira would always pacify him and tell
him that it was not the opportune time to fulfill their desires. The Pandavas
lived peacefully in the forest and received knowledge from many sages and
saintly persons. One day the great sage Vyasa came and informed the Pandavas
that many generals had agreed to take up Duryodhana's cause, such as Karna,
Shakuni, Bhurishravas, Sala, Drona and even grandfather Bhishma. He told Arjuna
that if he were to fight in a future war, he would have to obtain the divine
astras of Lord Indra and Lord Shiva. After the departure of Vyasa, Yudhisthira
ordered Arjuna to go to the Himalayan mountains to perform austerities to
please Lord Shiva.

Arjuna did as he was told and headed for the Himalayan mountains. When Arjuna
entered a forest at the base of Mount Himavat, he saw that it was devoid of
human beings; however, he could hear the sounds of conches and drums from the
heavens. He soon passed through many woody regions until he came to the peak of
Mount Himavat. He stayed there for some time in that opulent region. Beautiful
birds abounded everywhere, and the rivers were the color of Lapis Lazuli. When
Arjuna saw the beauty of that heavenly place, he was pleased at heart. It was
there that he decided to perform austerities and worship Lord Shiva. In the
beginning of his austerities, he ate withered leaves that fell from the trees.
For the first month he also ate fruits every three days. In the second month he
ate fruits every sixth day and in the third month every fortnight. When the
fourth month came, that best of the Bharatas began to subsist on air alone.
With his arms upraised and standing on his tiptoes, he continued his
austerities. The illustrious hero's matted locks took on the color of lightning
due to his severe austerities. Then all the rishis, suffering from the heat of
Arjuna's tapasya, went to Lord Shiva and complained, "O god of gods, we do not
know the reason why the son of Kunti is performing these severe austerities. He
is, however, causing us pain. Heated by his asceticism, the world is smoking in
all directions."

"Do not lament over the austerities of Phalguna," Lord Shiva replied.
"Cheerfully return to your ashramas. I know the desire of Arjuna's heart. His
wish is not for heaven, nor for prosperity, nor for a long life. I will fulfill
the desire for which he has come here."

Lord Shiva then took the form of Kirata, an inhabitant of the mountainous
regions, and along with Uma, who also took the form of a Kirata woman, went to
see Arjuna. They were accompanied by many other Kirata women. Upon Lord Shiva's
arrival in that region the sylvan deities became silent. Even the birds did not
chirp. As he was approaching Arjuna, a demon named Muka, taking the form of a
boar, sought to kill Arjuna. Arjuna immediately took up his Gandiva bow and a
number of arrows resembling snakes of virulent poison. He then addressed the
boar, "I have not come here to harm you, but you seek to slay me. Therefore, I
must send you for judgement in Yamaraja's abode."

Beholding Arjuna about ready to kill the boar, Lord Shiva ordered, "Do not
kill this boar for I have aimed at it first!" However, Arjuna disregarded that
order and shot the boar. The Kirata also let loose his arrow at the same time,
and both arrows hit the boar, resounding like Indra's thunderbolt. When the
boar was hit, it gave up its life assuming the original form of a Rakshasa.

Seeing the Kirata before him, Arjuna inquired, "Who are you, and who are all
these women surrounding you? O thou who has the splendor of gold, are you not
afraid of this terrible forest? Why have you shot this boar that I aimed at
first? This Rakshasa was seeking to slay me, and therefore I have released my
arrow. You have not acted according to hunting codes, and therefore, I
challenge you."

"O hero," Lord Shiva replied, "you should not be anxious on my account. This
forest is the proper abode of those who inhabit mountainous regions. I would
inquire, however, as to why you have chosen this region amidst such
difficulties?"

"Depending on the Gandiva bow and arrows like blazing fire," Arjuna said, "I
live in this great forest like a second wind god. You have seen how I have
killed this Rakshasa, who took the form of a boar."

"I shot this boar first," the Kirata adamantly stated, "and it was my arrow
that killed the boar. You are proud of your strength, and it behooves you not
to attribute your faults to others. You are at fault, O wretch, and therefore,
you will not escape with your life."

Hearing these challenging words, Arjuna released his deadly arrows. Then both
of those mighty warriors began to release showers of arrows at each other. Lord
Shiva stood unmoved by Arjuna's arrows. Seeing his arrows ineffective, Arjuna
exclaimed, "Excellent! Excellent! Alas, this mountaineer, dwelling on the
heights of Himavat, has born the arrows of the Gandiva bow. Who is he? Is he
Shiva himself or some other demigod, Yaksha or asura? The gods sometimes
descend on the heights of Himavat. Except for Lord Shiva there is none who can
bear the infinite arrows shot from the Gandiva. However, never mind who he is,
I will slay him this moment." Arjuna then released hundreds and thousands of
arrows, but soon his quiver became depleted, and he became alarmed. He began to
think, "Alas, my arrows are all exhausted. What shall I shoot now? I shall slay
him with the end of my bow."

Arjuna then dragged the Kirata by the bowstring and beat him repeatedly and
the sounds were like thunderbolts. However, the Kirata snatched the bow from
Arjuna's hands. Arjuna then took out his sword and ran at the Kirata to kill
him. The Kuru prince, with the full force of his arms, brought that mighty
sword down upon the Kirata's dazzling crown. As soon as it touched the crown,
it shattered into hundreds of pieces. Enraged, Arjuna threw trees and rocks and
finally began to beat the Kirata with his clenched fists. Lord Shiva, in the
form of the Kirata, returned Arjuna's blows, and the combined sounds were
frightening. Arjuna finally clasped the mighty Kirata in his arms and began to
squeeze him with all his might. However, the Kirata also pressed Arjuna to his
chest and Arjuna, whose body was weakening, fell to the ground senseless.

Arjuna soon regained consciousness and began to mentally worship Lord Shiva.
He mentally offered a garland, and when he looked up he saw that the garland
was on the crown of the Kirata. He then understood that the Kirata was Lord
Shiva, and overwhelmed with joy, Arjuna fell at his feet. Lord Shiva was
satisfied with Arjuna and said, "O Phalguna, I am pleased with you, for no one
can rival your prowess. There is no kshatriya who is equal to you in courage
and patience. O sinless one, your strength and prowess almost equal mine.
Behold me, O bull of the Bharata race. I will grant you eyes to see my true
form. Without doubt you will defeat your enemies, including those in heaven. I
have been pleased with you and will grant you an irresistible weapon."

Prostrating himself before Lord Shiva, Arjuna said, "O Mahadeva, O Rudra, O
bearer of the trident, you are the foremost of all male beings. I bow down to
you. O illustrious Sankara, it behooves you to pardon my fault. It was to
obtain your sight that I came to this mountain to perform austerities. I have
worshiped you to obtain your grace. Please do not regard my impudence as a
fault. I seek your protection; pardon me for all the offenses I have
committed."

Lord Shiva then took the hands of Arjuna into his and smilingly said, "I have
pardoned you. In your former life you were Nara, the friend of Narayana, the
Supreme Lord of lords, the upholder of this universe. O lord, taking up your
fierce bow, whose twang resembled the deep roar of thunder, you, as well as
Lord Krishna, chastised the demons at the coronation of Indra. This Gandiva
bow, O son of Pritha, is fit for your hands. I have forcibly taken it from you
with the help of my powers of illusion. Your two quivers will again provide you
with infinite arrows. Your body will be free from pain and disease, and no
enemy will defeat your prowess. O chastiser of the foes, there is not a being,
even in heaven, equal to you, nor is there any kshatriya on earth your equal.
Please, ask me for a boon."

"O illustrious god," Arjuna said, "if you will grant me any desire, then I
request your pasupata astra by which I may obtain victory in battle over
Bhishma, Drona, Kripa and Karna."

"O powerful one," Shankara (Shiva) replied, "I will give to you my favorite
weapon called the pasupata astra. O son of Pandu, you are capable of holding,
hurling, and withdrawing it. Neither Indra, nor Yamaraja, nor Kuvera, nor
Varuna, nor Vayu have access to this weapon. Therefore, how could ordinary
mortals know of it? However, O son of Pritha, this weapon should not be hurled
without adequate cause; for if hurled at an inferior enemy, it may destroy the
whole universe. In the three worlds there is no one who cannot be slain by this
weapon. It can be hurled by the mind, by the eye, by words, and by the bow."

Arjuna then purified himself and requested Lord Shiva, "Please instruct me how
to use this weapon." Mahadeva then instructed Arjuna in every detail of the
weapon. The pasupata astra then began to serve Arjuna as it previously did Lord
Shiva. After Arjuna received this foremost weapon, the whole earth trembled,
and the sounds of conches, drums, and trumpets could be heard in all
directions. The heavenly gods and demons then beheld the marvelous weapon in
its embodied form by the side of Arjuna. Then Lord Shiva touched Arjuna and
whatever inauspicious things had been in his body disappeared .

Lord Shiva then instructed Arjuna, "Go to heaven and obtain the weapons of the
other devas." Arjuna then worshiped Lord Shiva; and the three eyed deity, along
with with his wife Parvati, ascended into the heavens.

Arjuna was overjoyed at having been benedicted by Lord Shiva, and he thought,
"O, I have been favored by the three eyed Hara. I shall certainly obtain
success. My enemies have already been defeated. My purposes have been
achieved."

While Arjuna was contemplating the mercy of Lord Shiva, suddenly, Varuna, the
god of the waters, appeared before him, dazzling with effulgence. Also Kuvera,
with a body resembling pure gold, appeared on the scene. Next to come was
Yamaraja, the lord of justice. He was accompanied by the Pitris. At that moment
Indra also appeared, along with his wife Sachi. They were riding on the
celestial elephant Airavata. Indra was being eulogized by ascetic rishis and
Gandharvas. Other heavenly gods also appeared to bestow benedictions upon
Arjuna.

After all had arrived, Yamaraja spoke to Arjuna, "Behold the protectors of the
world assembled here. We will grant you special vision to behold us. In your
former life you were Nara, who possessed infinite power. At the command of
Brahma you have been born among men. O sinless one, it will be you who
vanquishes the great Bhishma in battle. You will defeat all the kshatriyas
commanded by the son of Bharadwaja, Drona. There have been many demons born
among men, and you shall destroy them all to establish religious principles. O
Dhananjaya, O son of the Kuru race, you shall slay Karna, who is a portion of
my father, Surya. O Phalguna, your achievements will earn you lasting fame in
this world. You have gratified the invincible Mahadeva in battle. You shall,
with Vishnu Himself, lighten the burden of the earth. Please accept my personal
weapon, the mace, which cannot be baffled by any warrior." The son of Pritha
then received that weapon from Yamaraja along with the mantras for hurling and
withdrawing it.

Then Varuna, the lord of all watery creatures, benedicted Arjuna, "O son of
Pritha, you are the foremost of kshatriyas. Behold me; I am Varuna, the god of
the waters. Accept from me the Varuna nooses, which cannot be counteracted.
With these, O hero, I have in the past seized and tied up thousands of Daityas
(demons) in battle. Even Yamaraja himself could not escape this weapon. With
these nooses in hand, the battlefield will become destitute of warriors."

After Varuna and Yamaraja had given away their celestial weapons, Kuvera, the
lord of heavenly treasures, spoke to Arjuna, "O son of Pandu, O thou of great
might and wisdom, I, too, have become pleased with you. Meeting you gives me as
much pleasure as meeting Lord Krishna. O wielder of the Gandiva bow, you were
in a previous life the great Nara, possessed of ascetic splendor. Please accept
my personal weapon by which you will be able to consume the ranks of
Duryodhana. This favorite weapon of mine is called antardhana, which is capable
of putting your enemy to sleep. Endowed with the dignity of Meru, you are
competent to hold this weapon."

After Kuvera had benedicted Arjuna, Indra, the king of heaven spoke, "O mighty
armed son of Kunti, you are an ancient god of yore. O repressor of the foe, you
have yet to accomplish the purpose of the demigods. You must first ascend to
heaven. I have prepared my own chariot with Matali as its driver. It will soon
ascend to earth and take you to my abode. There I will bestow upon you all my
celestial weapons."

Beholding the protectors of the worlds assembled together, Arjuna was struck
with wonder. He worshiped them with sweet words, water and fruits. After
benedicting Arjuna with various weapons needed to defeat the demons, the
heavenly lords returned to their abodes. Arjuna was filled with joy and
regarded himself as one favored by providence and crowned with success.

As Arjuna was thinking of the heavenly realm, suddenly, the heavens illumined
and Indra's chariot appeared in the sky dividing the clouds. That chariot was
traveling at such speed that one could hardly mark its progress. Drawn by ten
thousand horses, that golden chariot, filled with the most powerful weapons,
descended to the spot where Arjuna was sitting. Matali stepped down from the
chariot and requested, "O son of Indra, your father wishes to see you. Please
ascend this celestial chariot, and I will take you to the heavenly realm. You
will return after obtaining all the celestial weapons."

"O Matali," Arjuna replied, "Even kings of great prosperity, who have
performed great sacrifices, are not competent to ride on this chariot. He, who
does not possess ascetic merit, will not be able to see or touch this chariot.
After you have ascended it and calmed the horses, I will attempt to sit in it
like an unworthy man stepping on the high road to honesty."

Before ascending the chariot, Arjuna bathed in the Ganges and purified himself
by his daily offering of prayers. He bid farewell to Mount Himavat and then
ascended the chariot. The Kuru prince, looking like a second Indra himself,
then coursed through the firmament to Indraloka. After he had become invisible
to mortal eyes, he beheld thousands of celestial airplanes of extraordinary
beauty. And in that region there was no sun or moon or fire to give light. The
light generated was from that of ascetic merit. And those brilliant stars seen
from earth, so small in consequence, though actually very large, were seen by
Arjuna full of beauty, effulgence and blazing with splendor. There he beheld
royal sages crowned with ascetic merit, and heroes who had attained heaven by
yielding their lives in battle. There were also those who had attained heaven
by severe austerities. Arjuna also saw Gandharvas, with bodies blazing like the
sun, and Guhyakas, Rishis and Apsaras.

Beholding those self-effulgent regions, Arjuna became filled with wonder and
inquired about them from Matali. Matali replied, "These, O son of Pritha, are
virtuous persons stationed in their respective places according to their karma.
It is these, O exalted one, that you have seen on earth as stars." Then Arjuna
saw at the gates of Indraloka the victorious elephant Airavata, which possessed
four tusks and resembled Mount Kailasa. After entering the gate, Arjuna
followed that path that only the most pious persons were able to follow.
Endowed with lotus petal eyes, the celebrated Arjuna finally beheld Amaravati,
the city of Indra.

The city was indeed dazzling in all its splendor. It was the resort of the
siddhas and charanas. It was adorned with flowers of every season and trees of
every kind. Arjuna also beheld the Nandakanana gardens, which were the favorite
place of the Apsaras. Fragrant breezes carried the scent of different kinds of
flowers. The region was such that none who had not performed austerities could
see it. It was a region for the pious alone. It was not for those who turned
their back in battle, who had not performed sacrifices, or practiced rigid
vows, or who were without Vedic knowledge, or who had not bathed in sacred
waters. And none were competent to visualize that remarkable city who had
disturbed sacrifices in a previous life, who drank intoxicating liquors, who
committed adultery with their preceptor's wife, or who were eaters of meat, or
who were wicked.

As Arjuna entered the celestial city, he saw thousands of flower airplanes
driven by the most beautiful persons. The Apsaras and the Gandharvas began to
praise Arjuna. Benedictions were poured upon him, accompanied by the sounds of
celestial music. Indra welcomed his son by embracing him and smelling his head
out of affection. He made Arjuna sit on his exalted seat, and taking his
handsome face in his perfumed hands which bore the mark of the thunderbolt, he
glanced again and again at Arjuna's handsome features. Indra and Arjuna
appeared like the sun and moon seated on that most opulent throne. Then the
Gandharvas headed by Tumburu played music, and the heavenly maidens Ghritachi,
Menaka, Rambha, Purvachitti, Swayamprabha, Urvasi and others by the thousands
began to dance for the pleasure of Indra and Arjuna. These women had eyes
formed like lotus petals and could entice the hearts of even great ascetics.
They had slim waists, large hips, large breasts and casting their beautiful
eyes in all directions, they could steal any man's heart. In this way Indra
showed Arjuna the opulences of Amaravati one by one.

Arjuna stayed with his father for some time in the heavenly planets. Indra
instructed Arjuna how to use various weapons, including the thunderbolt weapon
which Indra had used to slay Vritrasura. After receiving all the celestial
weapons, Arjuna remembered his brothers with great affection and thought of
returning to them. However, Arjuna stayed a full five years in the heavenly
planets due to Indra's desire. At Indra's request, Arjuna learned the art of
dancing and music from Chitrasena, the Gandharva. This particular science of
music and dance was unknown in the earthly regions. Nonetheless, even after
obtaining the different weapons and sciences of music and dance, Arjuna was
unhappy, wanting to return to his brothers and his wife Draupadi.

One day, Indra, thinking that Arjuna was attracted to Urvasi, told Chitrasena
to go to Urvasi and request her to satisfy Arjuna's desire. When Urvasi heard
that Arjuna was attracted to her, she was pleased and said, "Seeing the good
qualities of this best among men, I will bestow my favor upon him. I will be
happy to choose Arjuna for a lover."

When the twilight had come and the moon was illuminating the dark sky, Urvasi
went to the Palace of Arjuna. Her braids of hair were decked with flowers and
she looked extremely beautiful. Her graceful features, her charm, the motions
of her eyebrows, her soft accents, and her moon-like face contained all the
power of Cupid's arrow. As she proceeded, her full, finely tapering bosoms
decked with a chain of gold and smeared with sandalwood and perfumed oil,
trembled. Her thighs were faultlessly shaped, and the abode of the god of love.
Her hips were high and fair. Being decked with very thin transparent attire,
her body was able to shake the very sainthood of most ascetic sages.
Exhilarated with a liquor she had taken and filled with sensual desire, she
approached Arjuna's quarters.

The doorkeeper informed Arjuna of her arrival, and she was allowed in. When
Arjuna saw her thus attired, he closed his eyes from modesty and offered her
respectful words of worship. Not understanding Arjuna's intention, she tried to
entice him with sweet words, "O thou of fairest complexion, I have been sent
here by Indra himself. Please satisfy my desire, your desire, and the desire of
your father. O slayer of the foes, my heart has become attracted by your
virtues, and I am already under the influence of the god of love."

Arjuna was overcome with bashfulness. and covering his ears with his hands, he
said, "O blessed lady, please do not speak to me in this way, for you are
certainly equal to the wife of a superior. Even as my mother, Kunti, or Sachi,
the wife of Indra, are to be worshiped, so are you to be worshiped. There is no
doubt of this. It is true that I had given you my attention, but there was a
reason for this. I remembered that you were the mother of the Kuru race, having
taken Puru for your husband. O blessed Apsara, it behooves you not to entertain
any other feelings towards me, for you are my superior, being the mother of my
dynasty."

"O son of Indra," Urvasi replied, "Apsaras are free and unconfined in their
choice of mate. You should not, therefore, look upon me as a superior. The sons
and grandsons of the Puru race have come here in consequence of their ascetic
merit and have sported with us without incurring sin. Therefore, O hero, do not
send me away. I am burning with desire."

"Truly I tell you," Arjuna said, "that you are as a mother to me. Therefore, I
bow my head before you and prostrate myself at your feet. You deserve worship
as a mother, and I ask that you protect me as a son."

Being rejected by Arjuna, Urvasi was extremely angry. Trembling with rage and
contracting her eyebrows, she cursed Arjuna saying, "Since I have come here on
your father's order and since I am burning with the shafts of love, I curse you
become impotent and pass your time among females as a dancer and scorned as a
eunuch." Her lips still quivering in anger, Urvasi then returned to her abode.

When Indra heard how Arjuna had rejected Urvasi, he embraced his son and said,
"O best of beings, having obtained thee as a son, Pritha, today has truly
become a blessed mother. O mighty armed one, you have vanquished even rishis by
your patience and self control. Do not be disturbed by the curse of Urvasi. It
will benefit you in your last year of exile when you have to pass that time
unknown to men. It is at that time that you will suffer the curse of Urvasi.
After that final year has ended, you will again achieve your power of manhood."
Arjuna was pleased to hear how the curse was a benediction and ceased to think
of it any longer.

One day the great sage, Lomasa, came to the court of Indra and saw Arjuna
sitting on the throne with his father. Lomasa wondered what austerities this
earthly person had performed to sit on the same throne as Indra. While Lomasa
was thinking in this way, Indra informed him, "O brahmarishi, I know what is
passing through your mind. However, this one is no mortal, although he has
taken his birth among men. This mighty armed hero is my son, born of Kunti. He
has come here in order to obtain celestial weapons. Do you not recognize him as
the ancient rishi, Nara, of the highest merit? Listen to me, O brahmana, as I
tell you who he is, and why he has come here. Those ancient Rishis, Nara and
Narayana, have descended on Earth as Krishna and Arjuna. They will accomplish
their mission of establishing religious principles, and lightening the burden
of the earth. Also, there are certain asuras, known as Nivatakavachas, who are
proud of a boon they have acquired. Even now they are planning to destroy the
heavenly regions. Due to a benediction they have received, they cannot be
killed by the denizens of heaven. Only Lord Vishnu or Arjuna is capable of
slaying them. However, the slayer of Madhu should not be requested to kill them
when the task is insignificant. Arjuna is competent to encounter them all; and
after slaying them in battle, he will return to the world of men. My dear
rishi, please descend to earth and find Yudhisthira in the forest of Kamyaka.
Inform him that he should not be anxious about Phalguna, for he will return to
earth a proficient master of weapons. Without these weapons he will not be able
to conquer Bhishma and Drona in battle. Also inform him that he should go on
pilgrimage and bathe in the different holy rivers to cleanse himself of any
desire for material attraction. Then the fever of his heart will abate. O
foremost brahmana, it behooves you to guide and protect him on his pilgrimage
through the earth. Fierce Rakshasas live in the mountains and rugged steppes.
Please protect the king from those cannibals." After Mahendra (Indra) had
humbly requested Lomasa in this way, the sage descended to the earthly plane to
find that saintly king, Maharaja Yudhisthira.

Meanwhile, Narada Muni had already gone to the Kamyaka forest to pay a visit
to the godly Yudhisthira. When Yudhisthira requested Narada to describe the
merits of going on pilgrimage to the different holy places, Narada then
described in detail all the holy places, sacred rivers and ashrams of saintly
sages. After hearing the glories of all the pilgrimage sites and while the
brothers were discussing the idea of going on pilgrimage, Lomasa, on the order
of Indra, appeared before them. He related all messages from Indra and Arjuna.
He advised them not to worry about Arjuna, since he was under Indra's care in
the heavenly realm. He told them how Arjuna was faring, and how he had obtained
all the celestial weapons from Lord Shiva, Indra, Kuvera and Varuna. He told
Yudhisthira that after Arjuna had finished his business in the heavenly
planets, Indra would return him to their association. Lomasa informed the
Pandavas of Indra's desire that they should go on pilgrimage and perform
austerities. Lomasa instructed Yudhisthira about the necessity for austerity,
because that allows one to fulfill ones desires. He then offered to guide them
to all the holy spots. Agreeing with the proposals, the Pandavas began their
travels and visited all the important holy tirthas in Bharatavarsha.

When the Pandavas, headed by Lomasa, reached the holy place of Prabhasa,
Yudhisthira engaged himself in ascetic practices for twelve days, subsisting
only on air and water. He performed ablutions for many days and nights and
surrounded himself with fire. Thus that greatest of all virtuous men engaged
himself in asceticism. While he was practicing these needed austerities, news
reached Lord Krishna and Balarama that Yudhisthira was nearby. Those two
leaders of the Vrishni race, accompanied by their troops, came to see
Yudhisthira. When the Vrishnis beheld the sons of Pandu in ascetic dress,
their bodies smeared with dirt, due to lying on the ground, they were beside
themselves with grief. They could not refrain themselves from lamentation. When
Yudhisthira saw the arrival of the Vrishnis, he paid them honor as far as his
means would allow. That pious king, whose determination was so great that no
misfortune could cast him down, was overjoyed to see Lord Krishna and Balarama.
At the request of the Vrishnis, King Yudhisthira recounted the mischievous acts
of the Kurus during the vicious gambling match. He also told them of their
adventures in forest life and how Arjuna had gone to the heavenly planets. When
the Vrishnis saw the Pandavas so exceedingly lean, they could not check their
tears, which spontaneously flowed from their eyes.

When Balarama, whose hue resembled milk, the Kunda flower, the moon, silver
and lotus root, saw the condition of the Pandavas, He spoke to His brother Lord
Krishna, "O Krishna, I do not see that the practice of virtue leads to any
beneficial result, or that the practice of irrelligious activities can cause
suffering, when Yudhisthira, the virtuous, is living in such a miserable state,
and Duryodhana is now ruling the earth. It would seem to a person of limited
vision that a vicious course of life is preferable to a virtuous one. When
Duryodhana is in a flourishing state and Yudhisthira is suffering thus, what
should people think of this matter? This is the doubt that is perplexing all
men."

Replying to the inquiry of Lord Balarama, Satyaki, the commander in chief of
the Yadus, replied, "O Rama, let us do what is proper and suited to the present
occasion. Although Yudhisthira does not say a word, let us look after his
welfare as Saivya and others did for Yayati. When the sons of Pritha have for
their patrons, Rama and Krishna, Pradyumna, Samba and myself, why should the
sons of Pritha be living in the forest? It is certainly fitting that this very
day the army of the Vrishnis should march against the sons of Dhritarastra and
send them to the abode of death."

"O scion of the Madhu race," Lord Krishna replied, "no doubt what you say is
true. However, this bull of the Bharata race would never accept sovereignty of
the world unless it were won by the prowess of his own arms. When we put forth
our united strength, the enemies of Yudhisthira will be annihilated."

"It is not incorrect," Yudhisthira said, " that you (Satyaki) should speak in
this way. However, O scion of the Madhu race, truth is the first consideration
above my sovereign power. It is Krishna who knows precisely my heart, and I am
fortunate to also know His heart. As soon as Krishna perceives that the time
has come for feats of heroism, then He, who possesses beautiful hair, will
direct us to defeat Duryodhana. Let all the brave men of the Vrishni race
return to Dvaraka. We shall be united when the opportune time has come."

Thus after mutual greeting and after offering obeisances to each other, the
valiant men of the Yadu dynasty and the Pandavas departed. Having offered due
respect to Lord Krishna, the Pandavas continued their journey to the sacred
holy places of Bharatavarsha.



Thus Ends Chapter Three of the Vana Parva, entitled, Arjuna Obtains the
Celestial Weapons.



Chapter Commentary



Arjuna is in preparation to fulfill the desire of the Lord. By performing
austerities we show the Lord our desire. We should perform austerities to
conform to the will of the Lord. The Lord's desire was that the demoniac kings
be replaced with godly kings so that the earth's great burden would be lifted.
One may think that Arjuna performed his austerities for some mere weapons. One
may think, "What does that have to do with pure devotional service?" His desire
to obtain the celestial weapons was a part of the Lord's plan to annihilate the
miscreants. Therefore, it was pure devotional service.

One may also ask why Arjuna worshiped Lord Shiva. Why not worship Krishna for
the needed weapons? When Lord Krishna stopped the cowherd men from worshipping
Indra, He did so to establish firm monotheism. There is only one God. There was
no need to worship Indra. Therefore, why did Arjuna perform austerities to
worship Lord Shiva? The answer is that for the service of the Lord, a devotee
may worship a demigod. Just like the Gopis of Vrindavana worshiped the Goddess
Durga to have Lord Krishna as their husband. They weren't interested in
becoming more devoted to the Goddess Durga. Their only interest was Lord
Krishna. Similarly, Arjuna's only interest is Krishna and his service to
Krishna. What is Arjuna's devotional service? His service is to be an
instrument of the Lord in decreasing the burden of the earth. To help in that
devotional service, he has worshiped Lord Shiva, Indra, Varuna, Kuvera and
Yamaraja. In the Bhagavad-gita, Lord Krishna tells Arjuna, "In order to deliver
the pious and to annihilate the miscreants, as well as to establish the
principles of religion, I advent Myself millennium after millennium." (B.g.
4.8)

There is a difference in worshiping the demigods for sense gratification and
the service of the Lord. Lord Krishna has over and over condemned worship of
the demigods in the Bhagavad-gita. "Those whose minds are distorted by material
desires surrender unto demigods and follow the particular rules and regulations
of worship according to their own natures." (B.g. 7.20) "Men of small
intelligence worship the demigods, and their fruits are limited and temporary."
(B.g. 7.23) "Whatever a man may sacrifice to other gods, O son o

Vana Parva



Chapter Four



Bhima Meets Hanuman and Kills Jatasura



It then happened that Vyasa, the father of Dhritarastra, went to Hastinapura
and informed his son of Arjuna's accomplishments in the heavenly planets. When
Dhritarastra heard from his father, Vyasadeva, about Arjuna's success in
Indra's abode, he spoke with Sanjaya, "O charioteer, have you heard in detail
the accomplishments of Arjuna? My wicked and sinful son is still engaged in
sinister policy. Being a wicked soul, he will certainly depopulate the earth.
That compassionate soul, Yudhisthira, whose words even in jest are true and who
has Arjuna to fight for him, will certainly gain sovereignty of the entire
world. Who is there who can challenge Arjuna to battle? My wretched sons, who
will be forced to fight with the Pandavas, are indeed doomed. If Drona, Karna
or even Bhishma were to advance against Arjuna, a great calamity is likely to
befall the earth. The person who can kill Arjuna does not exist, nor is there a
person who can defeat him. O Sanjaya, the thunderbolt falling on a mountain top
will leave a portion unconsumed, but the arrows of Arjuna will not leave a
single soul behind."

"What you have said, O King, is true," Sanjaya replied. "The Pandavas are
filled with rage, seeing their dear wife insulted during the gambling match. I
have heard how Arjuna has gratified Lord Shiva, who assumed the form of a
Kirata. I have also heard how the other devas have bestowed upon him their
respective weapons. Arjuna cannot be defeated even by the heavenly lords.
Provoked by the insult to their wife, the Pandavas will certainly slay your
sons in battle. When Baladeva, Krishna, Arjuna, Pradyumna, Samba, Yuyudhana,
Bhima, the sons of Madri, the Kekaya princes, and the Panchala princes bring
their wrath against your sons, how can they live? What senseless person would
dare to face them on the battlefield?"

"O Sanjaya," Dhritarastra inquired, "how can my wicked sons live, for they do
not tread in the path of righteousness? Because I am devoid of eyesight, my son
thinks that I am a fool and does not listen to my advice. He, who has Lord
Krishna for his counselor, will never experience defeat. When, therefore,
Bhima, Arjuna and Vasudeva become enraged, surely my sons will perish like
moths in a fire. O charioteer, I have not had a moment's peace thinking of my
son's terrible misbehavior during the gambling match. What Vidura warned me
about during the gambling match is about to mature. A terrible fratricide will
take place at the end of the thirteenth year of exile." Thus Dhritarastra,
meditating on the future death of his sons, could not find any peace of mind.

As the Pandavas made their way from one holy tirtha to another, they finally
came to Badrikashrama in the Himalayan mountains. It was a very scenic spot
that could hardly be described in words. The flowers that bloomed there could
not be found anywhere else in the world. One day as Draupadi was gazing on the
beautiful scenery, a strong wind arose and blew a thousand-petaled lotus flower
into her lap. The flower had an celestial effulgence, a captivating aroma, and
its beauty was unearthly. She took the flower to Bhima and requested, "Behold,
O Bhima, this most celestial flower. O repressor of the foes, it has gladdened
my heart. I shall present this one to Yudhisthira. Will you also obtain others
for my satisfaction so that I may carry them to our hermitage in Kamyaka?"
Bhima was delighted to please Draupadi in some way and proceeded to follow the
path the scented flower had left. He traced the perfumed air for some time, and
suddenly he realized he had covered a long distance. When he blew his
conchshell, which roused the lions in the area, he also heard a loud pounding
that caused the earth to tremble.

As Bhima approached the sound which was like a challenge to him, he suddenly
saw a huge monkey lying on a stone slab. The monkey was waving his tail in the
air and dashing it against the ground, causing the tremendous noise that spread
in all directions. Bhima was completely amazed for he had never seen a monkey
like this before. The monkey was sitting there with half opened eyes calmly
blocking the way. As Bhima approached, the monkey advised him, "Young man, why
do you make so much noise? Most of the animals in this region were sleeping
peacefully, and now you have awakened them. Please be more considerate, and do
not be so cruel to the inhabitants of this region. Beyond this point the forest
is impassable. It is a path leading to heaven and cannot be taken by ordinary
mortals. Rest awhile here and eat some fruits. After your fatigue is relieved,
you may return to your residence."

Bhima was surprised that the monkey could talk like a human being, and
questioned him, "May I know who you are? What monkey speaks like a human being?
You must be some demigod in disguise. As for myself I am the son of Vayu, and
my mother is the chaste Kunti. My name is Bhima, and I am one of the Pandavas."
Bhima then told him the history of how they were exiled to the forest. He also
informed the monkey that at the present moment they were waiting for the return
of their brother Arjuna from the heavenly planets. The monkey smiled when Bhima
told him all this and said, "I know that I am obstructng your path, but I have
become ill and cannot move. If you take my advice, you should return by the
path which you came."

Bhima's eyes reddened in anger, and he became very impatient. "I do not want
your advice," he said. "Move out of my way, or I will have to move you
myself."

The monkey replied, "I have grown too old to move and most of the time I
simply lie here. If you insist on going further, then you can do so by leaping
over my body."

Bhima was becoming frustrated with the whole matter. He said to the monkey,
"You are an elderly personality, and you are lying on my path. It is not proper
for me to jump over your body, for the Supreme Soul exists in everyone. It is
also disrespectful to elders. If I had not known that Supreme Lord exists in
everyone's heart, then I would have leapt over your body and this mountain as
the great Hanuman did when he crossed the sea to Lanka."

The monkey inquired, "Who is this Hanuman who bounded over the ocean? You
speak of him with respect. His name comes with affection from your mouth. Have
you met him before? Can you relate something about him?"

The monkey looked at Bhima with a smirk on his face, and Bhima became furious.
He exclaimed, "You are a monkey, and you do not know who Hanuman is? Hanuman is
the greatest of all monkeys. He is also the son of the wind god Vayu and is,
therefore, my esteemed brother. He is famed for his devotion to Lord
Ramachandra. He is the illustrious chief of the monkeys, who is renowned in the
Ramayana. When Lord Ramachandra lost His wife Sita, that brother of mine leaped
across the sea to Ravana's abode and discovered her whereabouts. He then set
the city of Lanka on fire. Later he killed many Rakshasa generals in the battle
of Lanka. He even carried a huge mountain from the Himalayas just to save the
life of Lord Ramachandra's brother, Lakshmana. I am insignificant in comparison
to his strength, but I am able to fight with you if I have to. I must proceed
further into this forest, and you must clear the way."

The monkey smiled calmly when he saw Bhima's impatience. He said, "Please do
not be angry with me. I tell you the truth when I say that I am too old to move
from this spot. If my tailobstructs your path, then just move it aside and go
on your way."

Bhima, thinking that the monkey was failing in energy, thought, "I will take
hold of his tail and throw this monkey, destitute of strength, to Yamaraja's
abode." Assured of his prowess and smiling, Bhima approached the tail, and with
his left hand he tried to move the tail as if it were a twig on the ground, but
the tail would not move. He tried with both hands, but still he could not lift
the tail. He tried again and again, but still he could not budge the tail so
much as an inch. The monkey was smiling in amusement, which only increased
Bhima's anger. Bhima tried repeatedly to lift the monkey's tail till his face
was completely red, his eyebrows tightened, his eyes rolled, his face was
contracted in wrinkles, and his body was covered with sweat. Finally, Bhima had
to admit his defeat. He went before the monkey and prostrated himself, saying,
"Please forgive my harsh words. Out of ignorance I have transgressed the
conduct of good behavior to elders. Your power is greater than mine, and
therefore, you must be some demigod descended from the higher regions. Please
tell me who you are."

The monkey smiled at him and said, "I will gladly tell you who I am. I am the
son of the wind god, Hanuman." With these words they tightly embraced each
other, and tears of joy came from their eyes. They talked a long time, and
Bhima was thrilled beyond words that he had finally met his brother, whom he
had only heard about previously. Before their departure, Hanuman bestowed a
boon on Bhima, "I am going to grant you a benediction that will help you in the
future battle of the Bharatas. I will sit on the flagstaff of Arjuna's chariot
and with my thunderous voice, I will strike fear into the hearts of your
opponents and put new life into your army. I will always be with you." After
Hanuman gave this boon to the Pandavas, both brothers embraced and departed.

Bhima continued on his journey and finally came to a lake that was covered
with thousands of the flowers that Draupadi had wanted. It happened to be the
garden of Kuvera, and there were many Rakshasas guarding it. They attacked him
with their upraised weapons, but Bhima killed most of them. Those that were
left alive ran to Kuvera and informed him of the intruder that had come upon
the lake. Kuvera understood that it was Bhima and told his servants to let him
pick as many flowers as he wanted. This message was relayed to Bhima, who
thought of Kuvera with great affection.

In the meantime, Yudhisthira and Draupadi became worried that Bhima had not
returned. They called for Ghatotkacha, and together they followed Bhima's path.
In a short time they found him at the lake of Kuvera, sitting with an armful of
flowers that were meant for Draupadi. Bhima then related to them all that had
had happened. As they were talking, an invisible voice spoke from the heavens
ordering, "You are to go no further than this point. You must return to
Badrikashrama. Your brother Arjuna will return from Indra's abode in a short
time." Following the command of the voice, they returned to Badrikashrama and
waited for the return of Arjuna.

One day while Bhimasena was away, a Rakshasa all of a sudden carried off
Yudhisthira, Nakula, Sahadeva and Draupadi. That Rakshasa, who had been
disguised as a brahmana, had secretly remained in the company of the Pandavas,
alleging that he was a high class brahmana. His real desire was to steal the
bows, quivers and other possessions of the Pandavas. He had also been waiting
for the opportunity to enjoy Draupadi. The name of this wicked demon was
Jatasura. When he saw that Bhima and Ghatotkacha were away and that Lomasa and
the other ascetic sages were bathing and collecting flowers, he took the
opportunity to steal away the three brothers and Draupadi. However, Sahadeva
broke away from the demon's grip and forcefully took the sword named Kausika
from his grasp. He then began to call for Bhimasena in the direction in which
that mighty warrior had gone.

While Sahadeva was calling out for Bhima, Yudhisthira rebuked the Rakshasa, "O
stupid one, your merits are decreasing moment by moment. O Rakshasa, we are the
guardians, governors and preceptors of kingdoms. Unless we have committed some
offense, you should not abduct us like this. We have not committed any
misdeeds, however small. Living on simple food in the forest, we serve gods and
others to the best of our ability. After offering you food and shelter, why
would you seek to injure us? Why do you seek your death for no apparent reason?
If you are really a hero, then give us back our weapons and fight us one by
one."

Suddenly the Rakshasa could not proceed at a rapid pace. Sahadeva, following
behind, began to challenge the Rakshasa, "Wait! Wait! I am Pandu's son,
Sahadeva. Stand before me and fight, O coward; either I will slay you or you
will slay me."

While Sahadeva was challenging the Rakshasa, Bhima appeared on the scene
holding his mighty mace. When Bhima saw Yudhisthira, Nakula and Draupadi on the
shoulders of the demon and Sahadeva chastising him fearlessly, he fired with
wrath and addressed the Rakshasa, " I suspected you for a wicked person from
the time I saw you looking at our weapons. Because you were in the dress of a
brahmana, and you were innocent of offense, I did not kill you at that time. He
who kills a Rakshasa in the dress of a brahmana goes to hell for slaying him.
Further, a person cannot be killed before his time comes. Surely you have
reached the end of you time for carrying away the chaste Draupadi. By
committing this sinful deed, you have swallowed the hook fastened to the line
of fate. So, like unto a fish in water, whose mouth has been hooked, you will
not live today. You will attain the same destination as that of Baka and
Hidimva."

Thus challenged by Bhima, the Rakshasa put down Yudhisthira, Nakula and
Draupadi, and being forced by fate, approached Bhima for a fight. And with his
lips trembling in anger, he rebuked Bhima, "Wretch! I have not been bewildered.
I have been waiting for you. Today, I will offer oblations to those Rakshasas
whom you have just mentioned."

Challenged in this way, Bhima, bursting with wrath, rushed towards the
Rakshasa, licking the corners of his mouth and slapping his own arms with his
hands. The Rakshasa also darted toward Bhima in anger. When the dreadful
wrestling ensued between those two, the sons of Madri also rushed at the
Rakshasa. However, Vrikodara forbade them with a smile and said, "Witness this
battle! I am more than a match for this puny Rakshasa. By my own self, by my
brothers, by my merit, by my good deeds, and by my sacrifices, do I swear that
I shall slay this Rakshasa."

Thus the fighting ensued, and those two mighty heroes struck each other with
their arms. Repeatedly uprooting trees, they hit each other, shouting and
roaring like two masses of clouds. Wishing to kill the other and wrestling with
each other in fury, those two combatants broke down many massive trees by the
force of their thighs. The encounter resembled that between Vali and Sugriva,
who fought over a kingdom and a woman. Brandishing trees in their hands, they
struck each other with full force, shouting incessantly. When all the trees in
that region had been pulled down and crushed to pulp, those two warriors picked
up rocks and flung them at each other. Then again they darted toward each
other, and each grabbing the other, wrestled like two maddened elephants. They
dealt each other fierce blows that sounded like the crashing of thunderbolts.
Clenching his fist like a five headed snake, Bhima dealt a blow to the neck of
the Rakshasa that make him fall faint. Catching hold of the mighty Rakshasa and
lifting him up Bhima threw him to the ground with full force, smashing all his
limbs. Striking the Rakshasa's neck repeatedly, Bhima severed his head from his
body. He did this with the ease of a person plucking a fruit from its stem.
Having slain Jatasura, Bhima went to Yudhisthira, and the foremost brahmanas
began to eulogize Bhima even as the Maruts praised Indra.



Thus ends Chapter four of the Vana Parva, entitled, Bhima Meets Hanuman and
Kills Jatasura.



Chapter Commentary



Another benediction has been obtained by the Pandavas, so how can they be
defeated by the Kurus. Whenever one gets the blessings of Vaishnavas, brahmanas
and other worshipable superiors, how can there ever be any ill fortune? We must
follow in the footsteps of the Pandavas and try for blessings and benedictions
from the Vaishnavas for preaching Krishna consciousness in this difficult age
of Kali. When the Lord's pure devotees are pleased with our service then
certainly Lord Krishna will remove any impediments from our devotional path.



Vana Parva



Chapter Five



The Return of Arjuna and the Evil Plan of Duryodhana



After Jatasura had been slain, the royal son of Kunti, Yudhisthira returned to
Badrikashrama. One day, upon remembering Arjuna, Yudhisthira gathered his
brothers and Draupadi and explained to them, "We have passed these four years
peacefully in the forest. Arjuna has informed us through different sages that
in the fifth year he will descend from heaven to mount Himavan. This mountain
is like unto an abode of the gods. We should now travel there, where we shall
soon see the wielder of the Gandiva bow." Having thus made up his mind,
Yudhisthira summoned the brahmanas and explained to them his plan. They blest
him by saying, "Your plan shall be attended by prosperity."

The Pandavas and their wife accompanied by many pious brahmanas then traveled
to the north. They saw many lions, tigers and elephants as they traveled. On
the seventeenth day they reached Mount Mainaka and the base of Gandhamadana
mountain. Not far from Gandhamadana, Pandu's son beheld the sacred slopes of
Himavan, covered with various trees and creepers. There among the blossoming
trees, the Pandavas beheld the holy hermitage of Arishtasena. The renowned sage
Arishtasena, greeted the Pandavas and the accompanying sages and brahmanas. The
Pandavas then spent the fifth year on Mount Himavan waiting for the return of
Arjuna. The mountain was celestial with its flower bearing trees, fruits, clear
water lakes, and birds of every description. It was indeed the abode of the
denizens of heaven. The Pandavas passed their time listening to Lomasa tell
various stories from the Puranas.

One day Suparna, a large bird, carried off a powerful and mighty Naga living
in the large lake nearby. When this happened the mighty mount Himavan began to
tremble and large trees shattered to pieces. All the creatures on the mountain
and the Pandavas witnessed this marvel. Then from the top of the mountain the
wind brought before the Pandavas various fragrant and beautiful flowers. The
Pandavas, Draupadi and their friends saw the heavenly blossoms colored with
five hues. When Draupadi saw the flowers, she solicited Bhima, "There are many
Rakshasas living on this mountain, O best of the Bharata race. You possess
great prowess and the might of your arms is irrepressible. O Bhimasena, perhaps
these Rakshasas, terrified by your powerful mace, will leave this mountain,
allowing us to behold the summit which is covered with these beautiful
blossoms. O Bhima, for a long time I have cherished this thought in my mind."

Bhima, driven by the wish of Draupadi, could not help but fulfill her desire.
Taking up his weapons, the club, sword, bow and arrow, Bhima proceeded to clear
the mountain of Rakshasas, who happened to be the servants of Kuvera and who
guarded the mountain from unwanted intruders. Bhima found a rugged path that
only one person could follow. Bhima ascended to the summit and came upon the
opulent abode of Kuvera, adorned with golden crystal palaces, surrounded on all
sides by golden walls embedded with gems. Gardens filled with flowers were
everywhere. The abode was graced with heavenly damsels who were expert at
dancing. Casually supporting himself on the end of his bow, Bhima stood
beholding the city of Kuvera. The foremost of the Bharatas surveyed the Palace
of Kuvera adorned with multi-colored gems. Bhima then blew his conchshell
making the hair on the Rakshasas' bodies stand on end. Taking up their weapons,
the Yakshas and Rakshasas rushed at Bhima, ordering him not proceed further.
The Yakshas and Rakshasas released javelins, darts, arrows, maces, and axes at
the powerful son of Pandu. However, Bhima crushed their weapons with his own
and then began severing their hands, legs, arms and heads. The Rakshasas tried
to surround Bhima like the clouds surround the sun. However, just as the sun
disperses clouds, so also Bhima repulsed the oncoming enemy. Terrified at this
wielder of weapons, they fled in different directions. Only Maniman, the friend
of Kuvera, stood to face Bhima with darts and maces in his hand. He addressed
the retreating Rakshasas, "When you go to Kuvera's abode, what will you say to
him? That you have been defeated in combat by a mere mortal." Having scorned
them, he took up his weapons and rushed at Bhima to kill him. As he rushed
toward Bhima like a maddened elephant, Bhima pierced him with three arrows. The
mighty Maniman then released his mace with full force. However, Bhima repulsed
the mace with his weapons causing a sound and sight like thunder and lightning.
In the meantime, the intelligent Rakshasa discharged an frightening iron club,
decorated with a golden handle. The club, belching forth flames and emitting
tremendous roars, all of a sudden hit Bhima's right arm and then fell to the
ground. On being severely wounded, Bhima, with immeasurable prowess, took up
his own mace. He then darted speedily toward the mighty Maniman. Maniman took
up a huge dart and released it at Bhima to kill him. However, Bhima broke the
dart with the end of his mace. The mighty armed Bhima then sprang into the air
releasing his mace as Indra releases a thunderbolt. That mace pulverized the
mighty Maniman, who fell to the ground, completely devoid of life. The
remaining Rakshasas then fled to save their lives.

Meanwhile, Yudhisthira, not seeing Bhima anywhere, took Nakula and Sahadeva
and began to ascend the summit of Mount Himavan. On reaching the summit,
Yudhisthira saw Bhima holding his weapons and near to him the dead Rakshasas.
Yudhisthira embraced Bhima, happy to see him alive. They sat down and
Yudhisthira said to his younger brother, "Either through rashness or through
ignorance you have committed a sinful act. O hero, because you are leading a
life of an ascetic, this slaughter is without cause. This act has certainly
offended the heavenly gods. If you seek to do good, never again commit such a
deed." Having been rebuked by his brother, Vrikodara began to reflect on what
he had said.

Those Yakshas and Rakshasas who had not been killed by Bhima went to Kuvera
and told him what had taken place. When Kuvera heard how so many of his
servants had been killed and that Maniman had been slain, Kuvera was filled
with anger and ordered his men, "Yoke the horses!" Kuvera then ascended his
wonderful chariot, which was opulent beyond description, and to the eulogy of
thousands of Rakshasas started into the heavens toward Mount Himavan. When the
Pandavas saw the large entourage of Kuvera, their hair stood on end. When
Kuvera's celestial chariot arrived on the scene, Kuvera smilingly descended and
stood before the Pandavas. Thinking that they had committed an offense, the
Pandavas bowed down to Kuvera and then stood before him with folded hands. Upon
seeing Bhima holding sharpened shafts and ready to fight, Kuvera addressed
Yudhisthira, "O son of Dharma, all creatures know that you are engaged in the
welfare of all. Therefore, you may dwell on the summit of this mountain. O
Pandava, do not be angry with Bhima. These Rakshasas have been slain by
destiny. Your brother has been an instrument only. The death of these Rakshasas
has been foreseen by the gods. I entertain no anger toward Bhimasena."

Kuvera then turned to Bhima and said, "I do not mind that you have committed
this rash act. In trying to please Draupadi, you have disregarded the
boundaries of the gods. Actually, I am pleased with you. O Vrikodara, today I
have been freed from a terrible curse. For some offense the great rishi,
Agastya, had cursed me in anger. You have been the instrument to fulfill this
curse. O Bhima, it has been destined that I be disgraced in this way.
Therefore, no blame can be attached to you."

"O divine one," Yudhisthira inquired, "why had you been cursed by the great
sage Agastya?"

"O King," the lord of the treasures replied, "once there was an assembly of
the gods, and I also attended, surrounded by numerous Yakshas carrying fierce
weapons. On the way I saw the eminent sage, Agastya, engaged in severe
austerity on the bank of the Yamuna. On seeing that muni, flaming and brilliant
as fire, seated with upraised arms, facing the sun, my friend, Maniman, from
stupidity and foolishness, discharged his stool on the head of that Maharishi.
Thereupon the sage cursed me saying, 'Because you have offended me in this way,
this Maniman, along with your forces, shall meet death at the hands of a
mortal. You shall be distressed on account of your fallen soldiers, but you
will be freed from this sin on beholding that mortal.' O Yudhisthira, patience,
ability, time, place and prowess--these five lead to success in human affairs.
A kshatriya who is endowed with patience can rule the world for a long time. O
best of men, Bhima is fearless, but ignorant of proper duty. He has the sense
of a child and unforbearing. Please, therefore, check him. You should not
return the ashrama of the pious sage Arishtasena. You can stay there until the
return of Arjuna. O lord of men, deputed by me, the Gandharvas will give you
protection from any harm."

Having heard these words from Kuvera, the lord of wealth, the Pandavas were
relieved at heart. Then, Bhima, lowering his weapons, bowed down at the feet of
Kuvera. Kuvera, seeing Bhima prostrate before him, desired to give him
benedictions. He blest him saying, "May you destroy the pride of your foes, and
may you give delight to the pious."

Then turning to Yudhisthira, Kuvera said, "O great King, do live in this
romantic region, and the Yakshas will not bother you. Gudakesha will come back
soon after attaining all the celestial weapons." After instructing Yudhisthira,
Kuvera ascended into the heavens, followed by the host of Yakshas and
Rakshasas.

One day as those mighty warriors were thinking of Partha, Indra's chariot
suddenly descended from the heavens. It was driven by Matali, and it so
happened that Arjuna was on the chariot. Arjuna was fully decorated with
ornaments and wearing garlands made of heavenly flowers. Arjuna descended from
the chariot and offered obeisances first to Dhaumya and then to Yudhisthira and
Bhima and accepted the obeisances of Nakula and Sahadeva. He offered cheerful
words to Draupadi, who was overjoyed at his return.

As the Pandavas gazed into the skies, Indra suddenly appeared from the
heavens, accompanied by the hosts of demigods. As he descended from his
chariot, Arjuna offered his obeisances along with the rest of his brothers.
Indra then instructed Yudhisthira, "You are blessed, O Pandava. You shall be a
ruler of the earth. At this time, O son of Kunti, you should go to Kamyaka
forest and reside there till the time of the twelve years are up." Indra then
ascended his chariot and returned to the heavenly planets.

Yudhisthira, Bhima, Nakula and Sahadeva were very happy to have Arjuna back in
their midst, and they questioned him about his travels. Arjuna began to relate
how he had been taken to the heavenly planets and how Indra had treated him as
his son. He told them of the beauty of the heavenly planets and how he had been
cursed by Urvasi to be a eunuch for the period of one year. He also told them
how he conquered the Nivatakavachas who had received a benediction from Lord
Brahma and were thus unconquerable by the demigods. He told them how he
approached their flying city and how he challenged them to fight. They came out
of their city 60,000 strong and began to battle with him. They used many
demoniac illusions and fought with fierce weapons, but he was able to defeat
all of them with Indra's thunderbolt weapon and various other divine astras.
Arjuna then told his brothers what Indra has said concerning the future war,
"Indra instructed me, 'O son, all the celestial weapons of the devas are in
your possession, so no man on earth will be your equal. When you are on the
battlefield, the combined forces of Bhishma, Drona, Karna, Kripa, Shakuni and
all others will not equal one sixteenth of your prowess.' And Lord Indra
granted me this golden garland and this conchshell, Devadatta. He also gave me
this celestial crown and this impenetrable mail capable of protecting the body.
These elegant and divine clothes and ornaments were also presented by Indra.
Thus I have spent five years in Indra's abode."

The next morning Yudhisthira approached Arjuna requesting, "O Kaunteya, please
show me the weapons by which you have vanquished the Danavas." Arjuna then took
out his Gandiva bow and commenced to show the weapons in order. When the divine
astras had been set, the earth began to tremble and the sun hid itself in the
clouds. Suddenly the Rishis, Siddhas, Devarshis, denizens of heaven, Yakshas,
Rakshasas, Brahma, Shiva and the Lokapalas appeared on the scene. Narada Muni,
speaking on behalf of the devas, addressed Partha in sweet words, "O Arjuna, do
not discharge the celestial weapons. These should never be discharged when
there is no fit object. And when there is a fit object, they should not be
released unless sore pressed by the opponent. O son of the Kurus, to discharge
weapons without occasion is fraught with evil. O Dhananjaya, these weapons when
properly kept will increase your strength and happiness; but if they are not
properly kept, they can destroy the three worlds. You should not act in this
way again. O Yudhisthira, you will behold these weapons when Partha will use
them for grinding your enemies in battle." On saying this Narada and the
heavenly lords left that place, and Yudhisthira was struck with wonder. After
this incident the Pandavas started for the Kamyaka forest.

On the way to the Kamyaka, they came upon the ashrama of Vrishaparva near the
bank of the Yamuna. There, they spent some time, and one day while Bhima was
hunting in the forest, he came face to face with a huge serpent. As Bhima
approached the serpent, the huge snake immediately seized Bhimasena in his
grip. He began to coil around the body of Bhimasena; and although the son of
Kunti had the strength of ten thousand elephants, he could do nothing for the
serpent had received a benediction that whatever came into its grip became
powerless. Bhima tried to free himself from the grasp of the snake, but it was
no use. Meanwhile, Yudhisthira saw that there were many evil omens manifest,
and he inquired about Bhimasena's welfare. When he heard that Bhima had gone
hunting in the forest, he ordered Partha to stay with Draupadi, and Nakula and
Sahadeva to guard the brahmanas. He, along with Dhaumya set out to find Bhima.
As they traveled through the forest, they saw Bhima's path, which was marked
with toppled trees, dead lions and other furious dead animals. As they searched
they saw Bhima lying motionless, enwrapped in the coils of a serpent.
Yudhisthira anxiously questioned Bhima, "O son of Kunti, how did you come upon
this misfortune? Who is this serpent who appears like a mountain?" Bhima
replied, "This mighty serpent has caught me for his food. He is the royal sage
Nahusha living in the form of a serpent."

Yudhisthira then requested the serpent, "O great personality, please release
my brother, and I will give you some other food to satisfy your belly. Please
tell me who your are, and how you have come to accept this form."

"O sinless one," the serpent replied, "I am one of your previous ancestors,
the son of Ayu and fifth in descendent from the moon. I was formerly a
celebrated King named Nahusha. Due to my past pious activities, I had attained
the heavenly realm and was ruling in the absence in Indra. However, I offended
the brahmanas, and they cursed me to take this form. They said I would be
delivered from this curse when the intelligent Yudhisthira answers my
questions."

"You may ask any question that you like," Yudhisthira replied. The serpent
began to ask questions, and Yudhisthira answered them to the satisfaction of
the serpent. The serpent then released Bhima, and Nahusha again took his form
as a demigod. He offered blessings to the Pandavas and again ascended to the
heavenly realm.

The Pandavas then continued to make their way to the Kamyaka forest. Upon
reaching that wooded region, they made their home there again.

During their stay, Lord Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, came
there to see His devotees and tried to persuade them to attack the city of
Hastinapura and take back their kingdom. Yudhisthira refused to accept the
offer of Lord Krishna, for he wanted to wait for the full thirteen years before
taking any action.

It so happened that a certain brahmana came to Dhritarastra and related to him
the experiences the Pandavas had while in the forest. He told the blind king
how Arjuna had attained the celestial planets and acquired the weapons of the
demigods. Dhritarastra was very much aggrieved to hear all that had taken
place; for he knew at the end of the thirteenth year, his sons and relatives
would be killed in a great battle.

Shakuni happened to be listening to the conversation between the brahmana and
the King. Shakuni then told Duryodhana and Karna what benedictions Arjuna had
received, and together they made a wicked plan. They decided to go to the
forest of Dvaitavana, which was in the Kamyaka forest, on the plea of
inspecting the cows. Upon seeing the Pandavas dressed in rags, they would laugh
at their misfortune and thus humiliate them. With this plan in mind, Shakuni,
Duryodhana and Karna approached the King and begged permission to go to
Dvaitavana to inspect the cows. The king gave permission, and thus the evil
trio began their journey. The procession consisted of eight thousand chariots,
thirty thousand elephants, nine thousand horses and many thousands of foot
soldiers.

They soon arrived at Dvaitavana forest. There the Kurus had several herds of
cows numbering many, many thousands. They began to inspect all these herds and
count the exact number that was in each herd. There happened to be a scenic
lake nearby, and Duryodhana ordered that tents be erected there. When the
servants of Duryodhana reached that lake, they saw that it was filled with
Gandharavas, who had descended from the heavenly planets. The servants of
Duryodhana returned and told him the situation. The son of Dhritarastra then
ordered some of his best men to drive the Gandharavas from the lake. Following
their master's order, those soldiers approached the Dvaitavana lake and ordered
the Gandharvas, "The mighty King, Duryodhana, is coming here for sport. You
must stand aside!"

The Gandharvas began to laugh. "Your wicked King," they replied, "must be
devoid of all good sense, or else how could he order the residents of heaven to
leave this place. Return to your King and inform him that if he comes here, he
will be sent to the abode of death." Thus chastised by the Gandharvas, the
king's army returned to the presence of the royal son of Dhritarastra.

Duryodhana was incensed and ordered his soldiers to prepare for battle. When
all preparations had been made, the army headed toward the Dvaitavana lake.
When they approached the gate leading to the garden, the Gandharvas forbid them
to go further, but the Kuru host headed by Duryodhana and Karna did not listen
to them and entered the lake region. The Gandharvas went to their leader
Chitrasena and told him of the advance of the Kuru army. The Gandharva king
ordered his men to attack the intruders. The Gandharvas then assaulted the army
of Duryodhana, and seeing the Gandharvas, rushing towards them with upraised
weapons, the Kuru warriors fled the lake area. Karna alone stood and faced the
enemy. The suta's son checked their advance with a deluge of arrows. He struck
the Gandharvas with his sharp pointed shafts, causing their heads to roll on
the ground. Although they were being slaughtered in great numbers, the
Gandharvas did not retreat but fought with greater valor. King Duryodhana,
Shakuni, Duhshasana, Vikarna and the other sons of Dhritarastra appeared on
their chariots and began driving the Gandharvas from the lake. The fighting
soon became fierce, and anyone who witnessed the exchange of weapons was filled
with wonder. Unable to withstand the prowess of the Kuru army, the Gandharvas
began to flee Dvaitavana.

Seeing his army routed by the on rush of the Kuru host, Chitrasena, the
Gandharva king, became enraged and released weapons that deprived the Kaurava
warriors of their senses. By the mystic illusion of the Gandharva king, it
appeared that there were ten Gandharvas around each soldier of the Kuru army.
Thinking themselves outnumbered, the army broke and ran from the battlefield.
Only Karna, Shakuni and Duryodhana remained to fight with the Gandharvas. The
son of the sun god stood there on his chariot and fought with the Gandharvas.
The Gandharvas, desirous of killing Karna, surrounded his chariot and tried
desperately to overcome him. Some killed his charioteer, and some killed his
horses. Some destroyed his wheels, and others completely smashed his chariot.
While his chariot was being thus attacked, Karna leaped down with sword and
shield in hand. He mounted Vikarna's chariot and fled the battlefield to his
eternal shame.

After Karna had been defeated, Duryodhana alone stood against the onslaught of
the Gandharvas. The Gandharva host attacked his chariot, killing his charioteer
and horses. When Duryodhana was deprived of his chariot, Chitrasena rushed
towards him and seized him. Duhshasana was also taken in the same way, and so
were the other sons of Dhritarastra. After they were captured in this manner,
whatever men were left in Duryodhana's army went to the Pandavas for
protection. Duryodhana's followers approached Yudhisthira pleading, "O sons of
Pritha, the Gandharvas have captured our prince and his brothers. Please save
them!" When Bhima heard their calls, he laughed and answered them, "What we
wished to accomplish with horses, elephants, and infantry has, indeed, been
accomplished by the Gandharvas! The sons of Dhritarastra have come here with
evil intentions and have been overtaken by the results of their sinful
activities. It seems that there are still some people in this world who are
desirous of doing us good."

While Bhima was speaking thus, Yudhisthira corrected him, "This is not the
time for cruel words. When a kshatriya is approached with a helpless plea like
this, who can refuse to give protection? Our cousins have been captured by the
Gandharvas, as well as the ladies of the royal household. This is an insult to
our family tradition. It cannot go down in the history of the world that the
Kuru warriors were defeated. Let us take up our weapons and attack the
Gandharvas."

Hearing Yudhisthira's inspiring words, Arjuna and the sons of Madri pledged
protection, and even Bhima readied himself for battle. They then ascended
chariots brought for them from the Kuru camp, and approached the Gandharvas,
ordering the release of Duryodhana. The Gandharvas refused, and a battle
ensued. The Gandharvas attacked the chariots of the Pandavas in the same way as
they had attacked the chariots of Karna and Duryodhana. However, by the use of
his celestial weapons, Arjuna sent hundreds and thousands of Gandharvas to the
abode of death. The Gandharvas could not approach the Pandava's chariots, and
as they were being slaughtered, they rose up into the skies to escape arrest.
Seeing them fleeing, Arjuna covered them in a network of arrows preventing
their escape. The Gandharvas returned these arrows with thousands more.
Chitrasena attacked Arjuna with his mystic illusions, but he was checked by the
celestial weapons of Arjuna. Resorting to a curtain of mystic power, Chitrasena
began to fight Arjuna with greater prowess. Partha, however, dispelled the
mystic curtain by means of a weapon known by the name of sabda-veda. When
Chitrasena was exhausted in fighting, he revealed himself to his friend Arjuna.
When Arjuna saw Chitrasena, he withdrew his weapons and the other sons of Pandu
also did the same.

The mighty bowman, Arjuna then smilingly inquired of Chitrasena, "O hero, why
have you arrested the sons of Dhritarastra as well as their wives.?"

"Knowing that you were in the forest," Chitrasena replied, "these sinful men
have come here to laugh at you. Understanding their intentions, Indra has sent
me here to capture Duryodhana and bring him to the heavenly planets for
punishment. This wicked prince has now been put in chains; and if it is
agreeable to you, I will take him to the presence of Indra."

"O Chitrasena," Arjuna replied, "if you wish to please us, then set Duryodhana
free. This is the desire of our brother Yudhisthira."

Chitrasena then requested Arjuna, "This wicked soul is full of false pride and
envy. He does not deserve to be set free. If Yudhisthira knew the real reason
why these men came here, I am sure he would allow them to be taken to Indra for
punishment. Let us go to Yudhisthira, and let him decide the future of these
sinful men.

They then went to Yudhisthira and informed him about the conduct of
Duryodhana, and after hearing everything, he ordered the release of his
cousins. Yudhisthira was pleased with the Gandharvas for not killing Duryodhana
and said, "Fortunate it is that although you had the strength, you did not kill
Dhritarastra's wicked son and the rest of the Kuru house. This has been a great
act of kindness, for the honor of my family has been saved. I am very satisfied
with all the Gandharvas. Ask from me anything, and having all your desires
fulfilled, return to your celestial abode." The lord of the Gandharvas was
pleased with Yudhisthira's humility and returned to his abode. It was then seen
by the Pandavas that Indra appeared over the battlefield and showered the dead
soldiers with his nectar of immortality. This revived all the Gandharvas, who
then returned to the heavenly planets.

When Duryodhana had been released, he was very much ashamed and Yudhisthira
admonished him, "O child, never again try to make fun of anyone for such acts
will never bring you happiness. Please go back to your kingdom. I wish you
well." With his head bent low in extreme humiliation, Duryodhana along with
this relatives left the presence of Yudhisthira and went away.



Thus Ends the Fifth Chapter of the Vana Parva, Entitled, The Return of Arjuna
and The Evil Plan of Duryodhana.



Chapter Commentary



Here is another example of how impious reactions come when one desires to harm
others. In this case Duryodhana got an immediate reaction for his folly. The
reaction to the sins at the gambling match took a longer time to fructify.
However, all reactions good or bad have their time of maturation. At the battle
of the Bharatas at Kurukshetra, Duryodhana would eat the bitter fruit of his
sinful activities by watching his entire dynasty destroyed in war. Every action
is like a boomerang which comes back to us. As the modern day saying goes,
"What goes around, comes around." If we want to avoid all material reactions,
either good or bad, one must engage in the devotional service of the Lord. Such
action produces no material reaction, but produces a spiritual body in the
kingdom of God, where there is no influence of the law of karma. We can attain
this state of peace and happiness by chanting the Hare Krishna maha mantra,
Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare/ Hare Rama Hare Rama,
Rama Rama, Hare Hare.

King Yudhisthira's transcendental quality is that he is completely free of
envy. Even though Duryodhana had come to embarrass the Pandavas and even cause
some physical harm, still Yudhisthira ordered that Duryodhana be released and
sent back to Hastinapura. This freedom of envy is a quality of the residents of
Vaikuntha. The sanskrit word kuntha means anxiety, but the word vaikuntha means
freedom from anxiety and envy. If we want to return to the kingdom of God, we
must develop the same quality of being non envious. Even if someone wishes to
do us some harm, we should follow the guidelines taught to us by Sri Chaitanya
Mahaprabhu, trinad api sunichena, taror api sahisnuna, amanina amanadena,
kirtaniya sada hari. "One should chant the holy name of the Lord in a humble
state of mind, thinking oneself lower than a blade of grass, more tolerant than
a tree, completely devoid of all prestige and ready to offer all respects to
others. In such a state of mind, one can chant the holy name constantly."



Vana Parva



Chapter Six



The Last Year of Forest Life



After Duryodhana had been humiliated by the Pandavas, he left the Kamyaka
forest, determined to give up his life. He told Duhshasana to return to
Hastinapura and rule the kingdom. Duhshasana, Karna and Shakuni tried to
convince him otherwise, but they failed to do so. Duryodhana spread Kusha grass
on the ground and put on the dress of an ascetic. While he was in deep
meditation, the Danavas and Daityas witnessed his activities from the heavens.
They wanted to stop his act of fasting until death. Thus they ordered that he
be brought to their presence. The demons told Duryodhana that he should not
give up his life. They told him that many asuras had taken birth on earth to
assist him in killing the Pandavas. The demons informed Duryodhana of who he
was in his previous life. They said that he had taken birth as the son of Lord
Shiva and Parvati, and thus his birth was celestial. He was also informed that
Karna was a demon in his previous life and was killed by Lord Krishna, Himself.
They said, "He will remember his former hatred for Krishna and Arjuna and
vanquish them in battle." After speaking to Duryodhana, they returned him to
his place of meditation. He awoke as if from a dream and thought, "Now I will
fight with the Pandavas and kill them." Thus he went back to Hastinapura along
with Karna, Shakuni and Duhshasana and thought nothing of his humiliation.

After this incident Duryodhana wanted to perform the Rajasuya sacrifice with
the same pomp and grandeur as Yudhisthira had performed it. However, the
brahmanas told him that as long as his father and Yudhisthira were still alive,
he could not perform this sacrifice. They informed him of another sacrifice
that was almost equal to the Rajasuya and required the subordination of all the
kings of the earth. Duryodhana sent Karna to conquer all the earthly kings, and
Radha's son accomplished this feat for his friend. The sacrifice was then
started and completed with success. Some who also attended the Rajasuya said it
did not compare with Yudhisthira's, and others who were friends with Duryodhana
said that it was greater than Yudhisthira's. Hearing this praise from his close
friends, Duryodhana resided happily in his kingdom.

Once upon a time the great sage Durvasa muni came to the city of Hastinapura
and was offfered a royal reception by Duryodhana. As usual, Duryodhana was
thinking of doing some harm to the Pandavas. He thought, "If I can satisfy this
muni, then he will give me a benediction that I can use against the Pandavas."
He thus pleased the muni by his service attitude, and the Muni granted him a
benediction. Duryodhana asked that the muni go to the forest along with his
60,000 disciples at the time when Draupadi had already taken her meals.
Duryodhana was thinking that the Pandavas would not be able to feed the
brahmanas, and Durvasa would then curse them. The muni agreed and went to the
Kamyaka forest accompanied by his 60,000 disciples. Yudhisthira greeted them
and asked that before eating, they bathe in the Ganges. Yudhisthira asked
Draupadi if there were any food left in the pot, and she replied that she had
already eaten. She then began to pray to Lord Krishna to save them. At that
time Lord Krishna appeared on the scene and asked Draupadi if there was any
food left in the pot. She said that there was none. Lord Krishna then went to
the kitchen, looked in the pot and saw that there was one grain of food left.
He ate that grain, and as soon as He did all the 60,000 brahmanas, who were
bathing, felt their stomachs so full of food that they had no appetite to eat
anything. They were too embarrassed to return to Yudhisthira for full meals.
Thus they went away from that place and by the grace of Lord Krishna, the
Pandavas were saved from the curse of a great muni.

One day, when the Pandavas were out hunting, the King of Sindhu, Jayadratha,
happened to pass by their cottage in the forest. In the cottage he saw
Draupadi, who appeared to be a demigoddess. He was infatuated with love and
asked one of his soldiers to inquire about her. The prince went to Draupadi and
asked her who her husband was. She told him that she was the wife of the
Pandavas, and the prince took the news back to King Jayadratha. The sinful
Jayadratha, desiring Draupadi for his wife, approached her and ordered, "You
must now give up the Pandavas for they are no more than beggars. I possess an
opulent kingdom, and I can give you the treatment you deserve." Draupadi
laughed at him, but he grabbed her forcefully and took her to his chariot.
Dhaumya chastised Jayadratha with harsh words, but the King would not listen.
He put her on his chariot and rode toward his kingdom. Dhaumya followed,
pleading with Jayadratha to desist from such a heinous act. Meanwhile, the
Pandavas noticed some evil omens and came back to the cottage only to find
Draupadi and Dhaumya gone and the maidservant crying. The maidservant told
Yudhisthira that King Jayadratha had forcibly taken away Draupadi and that
Dhaumya had followed them. The five sons of Pandu were furious, and ascending
their chariots, they followed the path taken by Jayadratha. They challenged
Jayadratha's army and within a short time thousands of men were slain,
including some of Jayadratha's finest princes. Jayadratha, seeing the
slaughter, left Draupadi and ran for his life. Bhima and Arjuna pursued him and
killed his horses. Jayadratha jumped from his chariot and ran into the forest.
Bhima caught him by the hair and threw him to the ground. He repeatedly beat
him with his fists till he was unconscious. Arjuna asked that Bhima not kill
him, for Yudhisthira would not approve of it. Bhima took out a sharpened arrow
and cut off his hair, leaving five tufts in different places on his head. He
then told Jayadratha that if he wanted to live he would have to announce that
he was a slave to King Yudhisthira. Out of fear Jayadratha agreed, and he was
taken in chains to the presence of Ajatrashatru. He was made to say that he was
a slave to Yudhisthira, and Yudhisthira; feeling compassion for him, ordered
his release.

Jayadratha wanted revenge. He went to the mountains to perform austerities to
please Lord Shiva. He ate little and slept little. Lord Shiva became pleased
with him and ask him to take a benediction. Jayadratha requested, "Please give
me the benediction that I can kill the Pandavas." Lord Shiva replied, "I cannot
grant that benediction since they cannot be slain by anyone. However, I will
give you a boon that you can defeat in battle at least once all the Pandavas
except Arjuna." Saying this much, Lord Shiva disappeared.

It was at this time that Indra came to Karna at Hastinapura in the dress of a
brahmana and begged from him his natural armor and earrings. As long as Karna
possessed this kundala and kavacha, he could not be killed. Karna offered the
brahmana his kingdom instead of his natural armor and earrings, but the
brahmana would not be satisfied. Previously, the Sun god had come to Karna
warning him that Indra would come in the dress of a brahmana and beg from him
his natural armor and earrings. He told his son that he should not part with
his armor if he wanted to be successful in killing Arjuna. Karna wanted to be
famous as a giver of charity and said he could not refuse any brahmana who came
begging something from him. Although Karna knew the brahmana to be Indra, he
did not hesitate to give his natural armor and earrings. However, in return he
asked for Indra's shakti weapon by which he could kill any opponent in battle.
Indra agreed, and Karna received from the heavenly king his shakti weapon.
Karna then pealed off his armor which was a part of his body and also cut off
his earrings; both were dripping with blood. Indra then returned to his abode,
and when the sons of Dhritarastra learned of this incident, they lamented
greatly. When the Pandavas headed by Yudhisthira were made aware of this
incident, they felt that Arjuna could now kill Karna in battle.

One day while the Pandavas were hunting in the forest, they became very
thirsty. Yudhisthira ordered Nakula to bring water from a nearby lake. Nakula
hastily left and soon came upon a crystal clear lake inhabited by cranes and
filled with lotus flowers. He desired to drink the lake's water; but before he
could a voice from the sky ordered, "O child, do not drink the water from this
lake for it is in my possession. You may take water only after you have
answered my questions." Nakula did not listen to the words of the unembodied
voice, and when he started to drink the water, he fell down dead.

After sometime Yudhisthira became anxious about Nakula and sent Sahadeva to
find out the cause of the delay. When Sahadeva came upon the lake and saw his
brother lying dead, he became much aggrieved. He then went to drink the water
of that lake to quench his thirst, but a unembodied voice announced, "Do not
drink the water of this lake for it is in my possession. Only after you answer
my questions can you take as much as you require." Sahadeva did not listen to
the strange voice and drank the water of the lake. When he did, he immediately
fell to the ground dead.

When Sahadeva did not return after a long time, Yudhisthira sent Arjuna to
find them and bring some water for drinking. When he came upon the lake, he saw
both Nakula and Sahadeva dead. He was overwhelmed with lamentation. He began to
search the entire forest for the being who had killed his brothers, but he
could not find anyone. Arjuna felt fatigued and went to drink water from the
lake. He then heard the same voice that his brothers had heard, "Why do you
approach the water, O Partha? You shall not be able to drink the water by
force. If you, O Kaunteya, answer my questions, then you may drink as much
water as you desire." Becoming angry, Arjuna began to release astras that
filled all directions with arrows. He released barbed darts, javelins and iron
arrows that were capable of hitting the target just by hearing the sound. Then
the unembodied voice laughed and spoke, "What is the need of all this trouble?
Just answer my questions, and you can take as much water as you desire." Arjuna
did not listen to the voice. He went to take water and when he touched the
water to his mouth, he fell to the ground dead.

When Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeva did not return after some time, Yudhisthira
said to Bhima, "Our brothers have not returned from searching for water. Go and
see if they have fallen into some difficulty." Bhima then began to search the
forests and finally came upon the lake. He saw his brothers lying dead on the
ground, and he became overwhelmed with grief. Tears filled his eyes, and he
thought to himself, "There is some powerful enemy nearby, and I must fight with
him. Therefore, let me quench my thirst." When he went to drink the water, the
voice from the heavens announced, "You may drink this water only after you have
answered my questions. This lake is in my possession, and you may not drink
from it." Bhima did not listen to the voice and went to drink water. When he
did, he fell down dead.

Yudhisthira waited for some time, but none of his brothers returned. He rose
and followed their path to the lake. When he saw that celestial lake, he was
struck with wonder. As he came closer, he saw his brothers lying dead on its
bank. He was overwhelmed with lamentation and anxiety filled his heart. He
began to think of how Bhima had made his vow to kill the one hundred sons of
Dhritarastra, and how Arjuna had vowed to kill Karna. He lamented greatly. He
saw that none of them had any marks of being struck by any weapons, and there
were no footprints in the area suggesting a battle. He concluded that this must
be the work of Yamaraja himself, for who else could defeat these great heroes?

As he thought in this way, he went to drink the water of the lake, but
suddenly the voice from the sky ordered, "This lake is in my possession. Your
brothers have died by not following my instructions. If you answer my
questions, I will allow you to drink the water of this lake." Just then a
Yaksha appeared before Yudhisthira, and the first son of Kunti spoke to him, "I
do not want possession of your lake. However, I will answer your questions to
the best of my ability." The Yaksha then began to pose many questions and
Yudhisthira began to answer them one after another. One of those questions was,
"What is the most amazing thing in this world?" Yudhisthira answered, "The most
wonderful thing is that daily countless creatures are entering the abode of
Yamaraja, but those that remain behind think that they are immortal." The
Yaksha asked another question, "Where is the absolute truth to be found?"
Yudhisthira answered, "Dry arguments are inconclusive. A great personality
whose opinion does not differ from others is not considered a great sage.
Simply by studying the vedas, which are variegated, one cannot come to the
right path by which religious principles are understood. The solid truth of
religious principles is hidden in the heart of an unadulterated self-realized
person. Consequently, as the shastras confirm, one should accept whatever
progressive path the mahajanas advocate."

The question and answer process went on for some time, and the Yaksha was
pleased with Yudhisthira's answers. He then offered a benediction to
Yudhisthira that he could have one of his brothers brought back to life.
Yudhisthira requested, "Let my brother Nakula be brought back to life." The
Yaksha then questioned Yudhisthira, "Why did you pick this brother when you
could have saved the great bowman Arjuna or the mighty armed Bhima."
Yudhisthira replied, "My father had two wives, Kunti and Madri. I Look upon
both equally. Therefore, let Nakula live." The Yaksha then said, "Since you are
not seeking profit for yourself in any way, I say let all your brothers live, O
best among men."

While the Yaksha was speaking, the brothers of Yudhisthira rose up completely
free from fatigue, thirst and hunger. Yudhisthira then inquired from the
Yaksha, "My brothers are not capable of being slain by a hundred thousand
warriors. How have you killed them? Are you a friend of ours, or are you my
father, the great Yamaraja himself.?"

The Yaksha revealed his real form as Yamaraja and said, "I am your father, the
Lord of justice. Please know that I have come here to test your merit and to
bestow blessings upon you. You are endowed with all good qualities and are very
dear to me. You may take from me any benediction you like."

"We have now spent twelve years in the forest," Yudhisthira replied, "and we
have to spend another year in disguise. Please give us the benediction that in
this last year we may not be discovered."

"I give you this benediction," Yamaraja said, "and say that even if you cover
the entire earth in these forms, no one will recognize you. You may now take
another benediction from me."

"It is enough that I have beheld this form with my senses." Yudhisthira said,
"May, O father, I always conquer lust, greed and anger and may my mind be ever
devoted toward the absolute truth and the performance of austerity."

"O my son," the lord of justice replied, "you have been endowed with these
qualities from birth, and there is no need to accept them for a second time."
Having said these words, the worshipful lord of justice disappeared, and
Yudhisthira and his brothers returned to their cottage in the Dvaitavana
forest.



Thus Ends the Sixth Chapter of the Vana Parva, Entitled, The Last Year in the
Forest Life.



Thus Ends the Vana Parva to the Summary Study of the Great Epic, Mahabharata.



Chapter Commentary



This chapter contains another example of how the Pandavas were saved by the
mercy of Lord Krishna. Durvasa Muni had come with the intention of cursing the
Pandavas, which would have surely put impediments on their already difficult
life in the forest. Draupadi simply thought of the Lord with intense
remembrance and the Lord came there personally to save them. When Lord Krishna
ate a morsel of food from Draupadi's pot, the bellies of Durvasa Muni and his
60,000 disciples filled up so much so that they could not return to Yudhisthira
for a meal. What was available to Draupadi is available today by intense
remembrance of the transcendental form of the Lord. Lord Krishna will always
give us protection if we simply remember Him. Although He may not manifest His
form to us, He is always present within our hearts, and by our remembering Him,
He carries what we are lacking. This is one of the great advantages of deity
worship. By practice of sadana bhakti, we see the form of Lord Krishna every
morning, and this gradually awakens constant remembrance of the Lord, which
will intensify during times of distress. The more we remember Lord Krishna, the
more our cycle of birth and death comes to an end.

This chapter also contains another example of how saintly Yudhisthira was.
When Yudhisthira was being benedicted by Yamaraja, he could have chosen Bhima
or Arjuna, thinking of an eminent battle with Duryodhana. Nakula or Sahadeva
could not have helped as much as the greatly powerful Bhima or Arjuna.
Yudhisthira was not thinking in those terms. He was thinking that since Pandu
had two wives, one son should still be living from both wives. Yudhisthira
never though in terms of profit for himself.

Conversely, Duryodhana, wanted to perform a Rajasuya sacrifice to make sure
his position as king of the world was secure. He was always thinking in a
materially motivated way. He never thought of the mercy of the Lord. When
Yamaraja saw that Yudhisthira did not care for any profit for himself, he
brought all the brothers back to life. Our positions in life do not depend on
profit calculation but on the mercy of the Lord.