Yaksha Prashnam – Sri Mahabharath – The conversation between Yaksha and Yudhishtira 88 – 113

 

Yaksha Prashnam – Sri Mahabharath

 

Chapter – 6 – The conversation between Yaksha and Yudhishtira 88 – 113

 

Q  - 31) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, which promotes Bhramanyam in the Jeeva, the birth in the illustrious clan, or attitude/virtues, or Swadhyaya/the practice of learning scriptures and Veda, the performance of religious and spiritual rites or the intellect?

 

Yudhishtira speaks “Oh! Yaksha, listen to me, the Bhramanathva is not the birthright in the illustrious clan, or Swadhyaya, or intellect.  The virtues of the Jeeva reveals the Bhramanyam, therefore the virtues should be protected well and a virtuous Jeeva does not meet destruction. The person, whose virtues are ruined, is considered as dead alive. After following the strict disciplines, and for performing various religious and spiritual rites, having thorough knowledge in Veda and Shastra, if the person has no virtues, they are considered as ignorant. The people who follow the Swadharma with devotion are considered as scholars. The people who have profound knowledge in four Veda and Shastra, but zero virtues are considered as lower than Shudra. The person who is sincerely devoted to the performance of religious and spiritual rites like Agnihotra, and has perfect control over senses is called ‘Bhramin/twice-born’.”

 

Q -32) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, what would happen to the people who always speak promising words/sweet-talker? What would happen to the people who always think thoroughly before the act? What would happen to people who have several companions? What would happen to a person who has a strong belief in Dharmanishta?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “Oh! Yaksha, the person who speaks promising words would become the favorite of all. The people, who think thoroughly before the act, would achieve success. The people who have several companions would live happily. The person who believes in the Dharmanishta would attain Sadhgathi afterlife.”

 

Q -33 )Yaksha speaks” Oh! Rajan, who is happiest in the Universe? What’s surprising in this Universe? Which is the appropriate path of living? Which is the absolute truth? If you have given appropriate answers for all the above four questions, all your brothers would get back their lives.”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “Oh! Yaksha, Oh! Jalachara, I shall answer your questions, listen to me, 1 ) the person who cooks vegetables at the end of fifth or sixth Yama of the day, the person who has no habits of borrowing money from others, the person who has not conducted a long journey in life remains happiest in the Universe. 2) Oh! Yaksha, all the living creatures dies on a regular basis. The Jeeva has a false impression that it is going to live at the end of Yuga and believe it as deathless. This is the most surprising fact for me. 3) The conflicts cannot resolve an issue, the Shrutis are too different to each other, and even the philosophy of the one sect is different from the other, and it is not accepted by all.  Dharma is a highly confidential concept. The righteous and most appropriate path of the Jeeva is sincerely following the ascetics, saintly people, and noble-souls. 4) The absolute truth is Jeeva gets cooked in a huge pot like Bhramanda, with the wood fire like Surya.   In this way, the Jeeva get burned in the day and night like wood fire on a regular basis, the Rithu/seasons and months are like the wooden ladle used to spread it while it gets cooked, therefore life on Earth is pathetic.”

 

Q -34) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, Oh! Shathrunashaka/destroyer of enemies, you have given me appropriate answers for all my questions. Who’s the wealthiest Jeeva on the planet Earth?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “Oh! Yaksha, the Jeeva whose Punyakarma/pious deeds spread all over the Earth and heaven, and as long as the piousness of the Jeeva continues to remain would be called as Purusha. The Jeeva who has grown beyond happiness and sorrows, grace and disgrace, favorable and unfavorable, good and bad, and the person who is not bothered about past or not anxious about the future is the wealthiest on the planet Earth.”

 

Q -35) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, you have correctly answered my question for the wealthiest man on the planet. You can get back the life of your brother whom you want.”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “Oh! Yaksha, I would ask for the life of  Nakula who has the attractive brownish complexion, reddish eyes, have the stature of Salavruksha, broad chest and long hands.”

 

Q -36) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, Bheema is most beloved to you, and Arjuna is a prominent archer who is most promising to your family. Why did you ask for the life of Nakula who is the son of your foster mother Madhri? Bheema has the might of ten thousand elephants, why did you leave him, and asked for the life of Nakula who is the son of Madhri? The whole world speaks about the prowess of Arjuna in the usage of the bow and arrow, why did you leave him and asked for the life of Nakula who is the son of your foster mother?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “Oh! Yaksha, listen to me, whoever discard Dharma, it would leave them forever. The Jeeva who protects Dharma would remain always under the protection of the Dharma. Therefore I will not discard Dharma. The kindness is the foremost Dharma,  I want to follow it sincerely, hence my brother Nakula who is the son of my stepmother Madhri is deserved to be alive. The people of Hasthinapur consider me as Dharmaraja, hence I won’t leave my Dharma, therefore Nakula is deserved to be alive. Oh! Yaksha, my father had two wives, Devi Kunthi and Devi Madhri, both of their sons deserved to be alive. I have not found any difference in my love for my own mother Devi Kunthi and stepmother Devi Madhri, therefore I always wish for the welfare of the two. Oh! Yaksha, therefore I would like to regain the life of Nakula.”

 

Yaksha concludes “Oh! Bharatharshabha! You have brilliantly revealed your strict disciplines and righteousness and proved the Dharma as foremost in your life.  Thus, once again you have established the superior status of Dharma over the material happiness and wealth. In this way, you have confirmed ‘Dharmo Rakshathi Rakshitha:'/whoever sincerely follows the Dharma would remain protected by it,  I am highly pleased with your answers, therefore four of your brothers will get back their lives.”

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Rajan Kulena Vriththena  Swadhyayena Shruthena Va | Bhramanyam Kena Bhavathi Prabhruhyethath Sunishchitham ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Shrunu Yaksha Kulam Thatha Na  Swadhyayo Na Cha Shrutham | Karanam Hi Dhvijathve Cha Vriththameva Na Samshaya: || Vriththam Yathnena Samrakshyam Bhramanena Visheshatha: | Aksheenavriththo Na Ksheeno Vriththathasthu Hatho Hatha: || Padaka; Padakashchaiva  Ye Chanye  Shasthrachinthaka: |Sarve  Vyasanino Moorkha Ya: Kriyavan Sa Panditha: || Chathurvedhoapi Dhurvriththa: Sa  Shudradhathirichyathe | Yoagnihothra Paro Dhantha: Sa Bhramana Ithi Smritha: ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Priyavachana Vadhikim Labhathe  Vimrishitha Karyakara: Kim Labathe | Bahumithrakara: Kim Labathe  Dharme Ratha: Kim Labathe  Kadhaya ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Priyavachanavadhi Priyo Bhavathi | Vimrishitha Karyakaro Adhikam Jayathi |Bahumithrakara: Sukham Vasathe | Yashcha Dharmaratha: Sa Gathim Labathe ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Ko Modhathe  Kimashcharyam Ka: Pandha : Ka  Cha Varththika | Vadha Me  Chathura: Prashnan Mritha Jeevanthu Bandhava: ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Panchameahani Shashte  Va Shakam Pachathi Sve Grihe | Anrinani Cha Pravasi Cha Sa Vari Chara Modhathe || Ahanyahani Bhoothani Gacchantheeha  Yamalayam | Shesha: Sthavaramicchanthi Kimashcharyamatha: Param || Tharkkoaprathishta: Shruthayo Vibhinna | Naiko Rishiryasya  Matham Pramanam || Dharmasya Thaththvam Nihitham Guhayam | Mahajano Yena Gatha: Sa Pandha: || Asmin Mahamohamaye  Katahe | Surya Agnina Rathri Dhivendhanena| Masarthudharvi Parighattanena | Bhoothani Kala: Pachatheethi Varththa ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Vyakhyatha  Mey Thvaya  Prashna  Yadhathadhyam Paranthapa | Purusham Thvidhaneem Vyakhyahi Yashcha  Sarvadhani Nara: ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Dhivam Sprushathi Bhoomim Cha Shabdha: Punyena  Karmana | Yavathsa Shabdho Bhavathi Thavath Purusha  Uchyathe || Thulye  Priyapriye  Yasya  Sukhadhukhe  Thadhaiva  Cha | Atheethanagathe  Chobhe Sa Vai Sarvadhani Nara: ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Vyakhyatha : Purusho Rajanyshcha  Sarvadhani Nara: | Thasmaththvamekam Bhrathrunam Yamicchasi Sa Jeevathu ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Shyamo Ya Yesha Rakthaksho Bhrihacchala Ivoththitha: | Vyudorakso Mahabhahur  Nakulo Yaksha Jeevathu ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Priyasthe  Bheemasenoyamarjjuno Va: Parayanam | Sa  Kasman Nakulo Rajan Sapathnam Jeevamicchasi || Yasya  Nagasahasrena  Dhasha Sankhyena  Vai Balam | Thulyam Tham Bheema Muthsrijjya Nakulam Jeevamicchasi || Thadhinam Manuja: Prahur  Bheemasenam Priyam Thava | Adha Kenanubhavena  Sapathnam Jeevamicchasi || Yasya  Bahubalam Sarve Pandava: Samupasathe | Arjjunam Thamapahaya  Nakulam Jeevamicchasi ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Dharma  Yeva Hatho Hanthi  Dharmo Rakshathi Rakshitha: | Thasmath Dharmam Na  Thyajami Ma No  Dharmo Hathoavdheeth | Anrushamsyam Paro Dharma: Parmarththashcha  Mey Matham | Anrushamsyam Chikeershami Nakulo Yaksha Jeevathu || Dharmasheela: Sadha  Raja Ithi Mam Manava Vidhu: | Swadharmanna Chalishyami Nakulo Yaksha Jeevathu || Kunthi Chaiva Madhri Cha Dhve Bharye  Thu Pithurmama | Ubhe Sa Puthre Syatham Vai Ithi Me Dheeyathe Mathi: || Yadha Kunthi Thadha Madhri Vishesho Nasthi Mey Thayo: |Mathrubhyam Samamicchami Nakulo  Yaksha  Jeevathu ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Yasya Thearththashcha  Kamashcha  Anrushamsyam Param Matham | Thasmaththe Bhrathara: Sarve  Jeevanthu Bharatharshabha: ||

 

||Ithi Sri Mahabharathe  Aranyakeparvani Araneyaparvani Yakshaprashna: ||

Yaksha Prashnam – Sri Mahabharath – The conversation between Yaksha and Yudhishtira 68 – 87

 

Yaksha Prashnam – Sri Mahabharath

 

Chapter – 6 – The conversation between Yaksha and Yudhishtira 68 – 87

 

Q – 22) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, what’s the appropriate Tapasya for the Jeeva? Which is foremost among the self-control? Which is the superior Dhama/endurance? What’s called Lajja/shame?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “Oh! Yaksha, the appropriate Tapasya for a Jeeva is sincerely following the Swadharma. The foremost among the practice of self-control is the control of mind and redundant thoughts. The superior Dhama is not to get over-excited at the time of joy and not to get depressed over the grief, the ability to consider grace and disgrace, happiness and unhappiness, good and evil, as equal with a serene mind.”

 

Q- 23) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, what’s the supreme wisdom? What’s the serenity of mind/peace? What’s kindness? What’s straightforwardness?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “Oh! Yaksha, the supreme wisdom is the awareness about the supreme soul. The peace of mind is getting freed from redundant thoughts.  The sense of kindness is seeking welfare for all. The straightforwardness in the Jeeva is the act of facing crucial moments of life with honesty and serenity.”

 

Q- 24) Yaksha speaks “ Oh! Rajan, who is the unconquerable enemy of Jeeva? Which is the incurable disease? What are the characteristics of  Sajjana and Dhurjjana?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “Oh! Yaksha, the anger is the unconquerable enemy of Jeeva. The Lobha/covetousness, lust, desires are the incurable illnesses of the Jeeva. The Sajjanas are most promising to all. The Dhurjjanas are wicked and merciless.”

 

Q -25) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, what is Moha/desire? What’s pride? What’s laziness? What’s grief?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “Moha/desire is the impulsive drive of Jeeva out of lack of responsibility. The sense of pride is derived out of ignorance and self-importance. The lethargy or laziness is the absence of performing one’s own duties and responsibilities. The ignorance is grief.”

 

Q – 26) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, what’s that defined as ‘Dhairya’/courage and stability, by the Rishis? Which is the most propitious Snana/bathing? What’s the definition of Dhanam/charity?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “Oh! Yaksha, stability is described as the firmness to perform one’s own Dharma/Swadharma. The courage is perfect control over sense. The superior ‘Snana’ is getting rid of impurities/Kama, Krodha, Lobha, Moha, Madha, and Mathshcharya from the mind. Any deed performed for the protection of the living and non-living things is considered as Dhanam.”

 

Q -27) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, define the nature of scholar, non-believer, ignorant, lust/desire, and jealous?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “Oh! Yaksha, a scholar is a person who is aware of Dharma/prescribed duties and responsibilities in the scriptures, strict follower of one’s own spiritual and religious rites. A non-believer is ignorant/ dull who has no wisdom at all. The lust/desires cause for the increased interest in worldly matters and bondage. The sense of jealousy is the cause of mental affliction.”

 

Q -28) Yaksha speaks “ Oh! Rajan, how do you define Ahamkara/ego, Dhambham/pride?  What’s that grace of Lord? What’s that most disgraceful deed?”

 

Yudhistira speaks “ Oh! Yaksha, Ahamkara is the essence of ignorance.  The Dhambam is the act of self-description as the righteous person. The grace of the Lord is the result of righteous deeds and the performance of charities. The most disgraceful act is talking ill about a person in his/her absence.”

 

Q- 29) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, Dharma, Arththa, and the Kama are different concepts, where did they achieve perfect blend?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “Oh! Yaksha, Dharma is the performance of religious and spiritual rites, strict following one’s own disciplines according to Varnna, any deed performed for the welfare of living and non-living things. The Arththa is the utilization of wealth for the welfare of Universe and its living beings, and fulfillment of one’s own requirements/necessities, Kama/desire to have virtuous progeny for the performance of religious and spiritual rites, to ensure the welfare of the Universe and its living beings, performance of homage to ancestors etc. Even though these three are different concepts, all these unite in the life of a Jeeva in the presence of commendable virtues of his wife.”

 

A – 30) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Bharatharshabha, who achieve ‘permanent hell’/Nithyanaraka? Answer to my question immediately.

 

Yudhishtira speaks “Oh! Yaksha, I shall describe the Jeeva who attain Nithyanaraka in detail, 1) the person who invites a poor Bhramin/twice-born and returns back without offering charity. 2) The people who criticize Veda, Vedanta, sacred scriptures, Bhramin, deities, Pithrukarma, spiritual and religious rites, and Dharma Shashtra would definitely heave to permanent hell. 3)The person who does not perform any charities or contributions even after obtaining immense wealth, and 4)  the person who does not use the wealth for the fulfillment of one’s own necessities even after having enough money, and 5) the person who always complaints of less money even after obtaining enough wealth would throw to permanent hell.”

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Thapa:  Kimlakshanam Proktham  Ko  Dhamashcha  Prakeerthitha: | Kshama  Cha Ka  Para Proktha  Ka Cha Hri: Parikeerthitha ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Thapa: Swadharmavarththithvam Manaso  Dhamanam Dhama: | Kshama Dhvadhdha Sahishnuthvam Hreerakarya Nivarththanam ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Kim Gnanam Prochyathe Rajan Ka: Shamashcha  Prakeerthitha: | Dhaya Cha  Ka Para  Proktha  Kimccharjavamudhahritham ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Gnanam Thaththvarththa Sambodha: Shamashchiththa Prashanthatha | Dhaya Sarvasukhaishithvamarjjavam Samachiththatha ||

 

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Ka:  Shathrur Dhurjjaya:  Pumsam Kashcha  Vyadhirananthaka: | Kidhrishashcha Smritha: Sadhura Sadhu: Kidhrisha: Smritha: ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Krodha: Su Dhurjaya: Shathrur  Lobho Vyadhirananthaka: | Sarvabhoothahitha; Sadhurasadhurnirdhaya: Smritha: ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Ko Moha: Prochyathe  Rajan Kashcha  Mana; Prakeerthitha: | Kimalasyam Cha Vijjeyam Kashcha  Shoka: Prakeerthitha: ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Moho Hi Dharma Moodathvam Manasthathmabimanitha | Dharma Nishkriyathalasyam Shokasthvajjanamuchyathe ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Kim Sthairyamrishibhi; Proktham Kim Cha  Dhairyamudhahritham | Snanam Cha Kim Param Proktham Dhanam Cha  Kimihochyathe ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Swadharme  Sthiratha  Sthairyam Dhairyam Indhriya Nigraha: | Snanam Manomala Thyago Dhanam Vai  Bhootha Rakshanam ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Ka: Panditha : Puman Jjyeyo Nasthika: Kashcha Uchyathe | Ko Moorkha: Kashcha Kama: Syath Ko Mathsara Ithi Smritha: ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Dharmajja: Panditho Jjeyyo Nasthiko Moorkha Uchyathe | Kama: Samsara Hethushcha  Hriththapo Mathsara: Smritha: ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Ko Ahankara Ithi Proktha: Kashcha Dhambha: Prakeerthitha: | Kim Thadhdhaivam Param Proktham Kim Thath Paishunyamuchyathe ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Maha Jyanam Ahamkaro Dhambho Dharmo Dhvajocchraya : | Dhaivam  Dhanaphalam Proktham Paishunyam Paradhooshanam ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha  -

Dharmashcharththashcha  Kamashcha  Paraspara Virodhina: | Yesham Nithya Virudhdhanam Kathamekathra  Sangama: ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Yadha Dharmashcha  Bharya Cha  Paraspara Vashanugau | Thadha  Dharmarththa Kamanam Thrayanam Api Sangama: ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Akshayo Naraka: Kena  Prapyathe  Bharatharshabha | Yethanme Pricchatha: Prashnam Thashcheeghram Vakthumarhasi ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Bhramanam  Swayamahooya  Yachamanam Akinchanam | Pashchathnastheethi Yo Bhrooyath Soakshayam Narakam Vrajeth || Vedheshu Dharma Shasthreshu Midhya Yo Vai  Dhvijathishu |Deveshu Pithrudharmeshu Soakshayam Narakam Vrajeth || Vidhyamane Dhane  Lobha Dhana Bhoga Vivarjjitha: | Pashchannastheethi Yo Bhruyath Soakshayam Narakam Vrajeth ||

 

Yaksha Prashnam – Sri Mahabharath - The conversation between Yaksha and Yudhishtira 52 – 67

 

Yaksha Prashnam – Sri Mahabharath

 

Chapter – 5 – The conversation between Yaksha and Yudhishtira 52 – 67

 

Q – 14) Yaksha speaks “Oh, Rajan, what’s the definition of ‘Athman’? Who is the eternal companion to Jeeva?  Who is the companion given to Jeeva on the Earth? What is the basis of human life on Earth? Who is the safest asylum of humans?

 

Yudhishtira answers “Oh! Yaksha, the eternal companion of a Jeeva is its ‘soul’/Athman, which represents a son. The companion on Earth of the Jeeva is his/her wife or husband.   Human life depends on adequate rain clouds.   The righteous deeds and the performance of an abundance of charities provide shelter to Jeeva.”

 

Q – 15)Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, what are the superior qualities of the good and noble people? Which is the most superior wealth? Which is the most superior gain? Which is the most superior comfort of a Jeeva?”

 

Yudhishtira answers “Oh! Yaksha, the most superior qualities of a noble soul is benevolence and kindness. The most superior wealth of humans is knowledge and wisdom. The most superior gain of the Jeeva is ‘Health’. The most superior comfort of the Jeeva is contentment and satisfaction.”

 

Q -16) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, which is the superior Dharma and which could provide an abundance of meritorious rewards? Which could put a complete halt on the sorrows of the human? Which is the most fruitful companionship of a Jeeva?”

 

Yudhishtira answers “Oh! Yaksha, the superior most Dharma is Ahimsa/non-violence, the Dharma that could provide fruitfulness to the Jeeva is Thrayidharma, the performance of religious and spiritual rites prescribed in the Shastras. The perfect control over the mind and endless desires would keep a Jeeva away from miseries and sorrows. The association with the ascetics, pious, saintly people is the fruitful companion of the Jeeva.”

 

Q -17) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, which is the most undesirable nature, should be abandoned? Which should be abandoned that causes miseries and sorrows in Jeeva? Which should be abandoned to become wealthy? Which should be abandoned to remain happy?”

 

Yudhishtira answers “Oh! Yaksha, the Jeeva who abandoned the ‘Pride’ remains most favorable to all. The ‘Krodha/anger’ that heave the Jeeva into sorrows and miseries, so abandoning Krodha keeps the Jeeva free from miseries and grief. The abandonment of ‘Kama/desire’ would keep the Jeeva wealthiest. The abandonment of ‘Lobha’/perplexity, anxiety, covetousness, cupidity, would keep the Jeeva free from troubles.”

 

Q – 18) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, why should we offer charity to Bhramin? Why should we offer contributions to entertainers? Why should we offer charity to servants? Why should we offer contributions to King?”

 

Yudhishtira answers “Oh! Yaksha, the performance of charity to twice-born is considered as highly auspicious; it would reinstate the Dharmic rites, performance of the religious and spiritual rite for the welfare of the Universe and its living beings. The contributions offered to the artisans and the entertainers for earning fame, and charity to the servant is performed for ensuring the protection, and the contributions are given to a King with the fear.”

 

Q – 19) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, what is that shielded in the whole Universe? Why things remain invisible, keeps always under the wrap? What does compel the Jeeva to abandon its relatives? Why did not the Jeeva achieve heavenly pleasure?”

 

Yudhishtira answers “Oh! Yaksha, the whole Universe is under the influence of ‘Maya’/illusion. The darkness keeps the things invisible/the darkness of ignorance keeps the Jeeva ignorant. The Lobha/ perplexity, anxiety, covetousness, cupidity, causes the Jeeva to abandon its relatives. The wrong companion of the Jeeva pushes them not to achieve heavenly pleasures.”

 

Q – 20 ) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, when did a person declare as dead? When the Kingdom did declare as destroyed? When did the Shraddha declares as unyielding? When did Yajja declare as unfruitful?”

 

Yudhishtira answers “ Oh! Yaksha, the sufferings of poverty declares a person as dead. The Kingdom without a King to rule, declared as destroyed. The Shraddha performed without devotion or dedication is considered as unfruitful. The Yajja/fire sacrifices performed without offering Dhakshina/charity to the priest is considered as dead.”

 

Q – 21) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, which is the auspicious direction? What’s the source of Jalam/water and ‘food’? What is considered as poison? Which is the suitable time for the performance of Shraddha? After answering all these questions, you can either drink the water or take away with you.”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “ Oh! Yaksha, the associations with the saintly, ascetic, noble-souls are the auspicious direction to a Jeeva. The sky is the source of water and the cow is the source of food to Jeeva.  The money earned without working or the money earned begging is considered as poison. The Bhramin/twice-born is the auspicious ‘time’ for the performance of Shraddha.  Oh! Yaksha, what is your opinion about all these?”

 

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Kimsvidhathma Manushasya Kimsvidhaivakritha: Sakha | Upajeevanam Kimsvidhdhasya  Kimsvidhasya  Parayanam ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Puthra Athma  Manushasya  Bharya  Dhaivakritha: Sakha | Upajeevanam Cha Parjjanyo Dhanamasya Parayanam ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Dhanyanam Uththamam Kimsvidh Dhananam Syath Kimuththamam | Labhanam Uththamam Kimsyath Sukhanam Syathkimuththamam ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Dhanyanam Uththamam Dhakshyam Dhananam Uththamam Shrutham | Labhanam Shreya Arogyam Sukhanam  Thushtiruththama ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Kashcha Dharma: Paro Loke  Kashcha Dharma : Sadha Phala: | Kim Niyamya Na Shochanthi  Kaishcha  Sandhir Na  Jeeryathe ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Anrushamsyam Paro Dharma Sthrayi Dharma: Sadha Phala: | Mano Yamya Na Shochanthi Sandhi: Sadhbhirna Jeeryathe ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Kim Nu Hithva Priyo Bhavathi Kim Nu Hithva  Na Shochathi | Kim Nu Hithvarththavan Bhavathi  Kim Nu Hithva  Sukhi Bhaveth ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Manam Hithva Priyo Bhavathi Krodham Hithva  Na Shochathi | Kamam Hithvarththavan Bhavathi Lobham Hithva  Sukhi Bhaveth ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Kimarththam Bhramane  Dhanam Kimarththam Natanarththake | Kimarththam Chaiva Bhrithyeshu Kimarththam Chaiva Rajasu ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Dharmarththam Bhramanena Dhanam Yasho Arththam Natananarththake | Bhrithyeshu Bharanarththam Vai Bhayarththam Chaiva Rajasu ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha

Kena Svidhavritho Loka: Kenasvinna Prakashathe | Kena Thyajathi Mithrani Kena Swargam Na Gacchathi ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Ajjyananevritho Loka Samastha  Na Prakashathe | Lobhaththyajathi Mithrani Sangath Swargam Na Gacchathi ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Mritha: Katham  Syath Purusha: Katham Rashtram Mritham Bhaveth | Shradhdham Mritham Kadham Va Syath  Katham Yajjyo Mritho Bhaveth ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Mritho Dharidhra: Purusho Mritham Rashtramarajakam | Mrithamashrothriyam Shradhdham Mritho Yajjasthvadhakshina: ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Ka Dhikimudham Proktham Kimannam Kimcha Vai Visham | Shradhdhasya Kalamakhyahi Thatha: Piba Harasva Cha ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Santho Dhig Jalamakasham Gaurannam Prarththana Visham | Shradhdhasya  Bhramana: Kala: Kadham  Va Yaksha Manyase ||

 

Yaksha Prashnam – Sri Mahabharath - The conversation between Yaksha and Yudhishtira 34 -51

 

Yaksha Prashnam – Sri Mahabharath

 

Chapter – 4 – The conversation between Yaksha and Yudhishtira 34 -51

 

Q -5) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, what are the perceptions about Sama and Yajur in a Yajja? Which is acceptable to Yajja and which is unavoidable?

 

Yudhishtira speaks “Oh! Yaksha, the Sama and Yajur represent Prana and mind/intellect of the Yajja. The Yajja accepts the Rig, and it should not be violated while the performance of Yajja.”

 

Q -6) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, what’s promising to agriculturists? Which is promising to people who cultivate on the land? Which is the most promising act for the Jeeva who desires a comfortable life? Which is the most promising act of a pregnant woman who is supposed to give birth to an infant?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “ Oh! Yaksha, The most promising to the agriculturists are adequate rainfalls.   The people who are engaged in disseminate the grains seek the greater qualities of the seeds. The most promising deed to a Jeeva who seeks welfare on the Earth is the nurturing of ‘Cow’. The most promising act of a pregnant woman is giving birth to a male child.”

 

Q – 7) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, who is dead while alive is the person who is drenched in sensual pleasures or most the respectable person in the society, or an intelligent one, or most benevolent to all?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “Oh! Yaksha, the person who doest repay the debts born with the Jeeva/Pithru Rina, Deiva Rina, and Manushya Rina, the performance of offering to the deities, guests, servants, and Pithrus or himself/herself, is considered as dead alive.”

 

Q -8) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, which is heavier than the Earth? Which is immeasurable than the sky? Who has the speed greater than the wind? Which would grow excessively than the grass?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “ Oh! Yaksha, the mother is heavier than the Earth. The father is immeasurable than the sky. The thought has a greater speed of the wind. The redundant thought that causes extreme fear and anxieties grow excessively than the grass.”

 

Q- 9) Yaksha speaks “ Oh! Rajan, who does not close eyes while sleeping? Who does not move after the birth? Who does not have a heart? Which multiplies its size with the speed?”

 

Yudhistira speaks “Oh! Yaksha, the fishes do not close their eyes while sleeping. The egg does not move after the birth. The rocks have no heart. The river multiplies its size with its speed/flow.”

 

Q – 10) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, who is the companion of a traveler? Who is the companion of the person who resides at home? Who is the companion of a patient? Who is the companion of the person who is waiting for his/her death?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “ Oh! Yaksha, The person who conducts travel considers co-traveler as a companion. The person who lives at home considers his/her female or male partner as a companion. The companion of a patient is his/her physician. The person who waits for his last breathe considers the charities performed/Dhanam as a companion.”

 

Q – 11) Yaksha speaks “Oh! Rajan, who is the guest for all the creatures? Which is the Sanathana Dharma? What is nectar? Which is omnipresent in this Universe?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “ Oh! Yaksha, The Agni is the guest of all the creatures in this Universe. The Sanathana Dharma leads the Jeeva to the path of Moksha. The milk of a cow is equivalent to nectar. The ‘Air’/Vayu is omnipresent in this Universe.”

 

Q – 12)Yaksha speaks “ Oh! Rajan, Who walks alone? Who takes rebirth? Which is the cure for the cold? Who is the prime contributor to this Universe?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “Oh! Yaksha, Surya travels alone in this Universe. Chandra who undergoes takes rebirth after each waning period. The great cure from the cold is heat/Agni. The greatest contributor is Earth.”

 

Q – 13) Yaksha speaks “ Oh! Rajan what is the pedestal of Dharma, Yashas/fame and honor, Swarga/heavenly life, and comfortable living?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “ Oh! Yaksha, the pedestal of Dharma is benevolence, the base of Yashas/fame is Dhanam, the base of Swarga/heavenly life is truthfulness, and the base for the comfortable living is morality and virtues.”

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Kimekam Yajjiyam Sama Kimekam Yajjiyam Yajju: | Ka  Chaisham Vrunuthe  Yajjam Kam Yajjo Nathivarthathe ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Prano Vai Yajjiyam Sama  Mano Vai  Yajjiyam Yajju: | Rigeka Vrunuthe  Yajjam Tham Yajjo Nathivarthathe ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Kimsvidhapathatham Shreshtam Kimsvinnipathatham Varam | Kimsvith Prathishtamananam Kimsvith Prasavatham Varam ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Varshamapathatham Shreshtam Beejam Nipathatham Varam | Gava: Prathishtamananam Puthra: Prasavatham Vara: ||

 

Yasha Uvacha –

Indhriyaththananubhavan Budhdhiman Lokapoojitha: | Sammatha: Sarvabhoothanam Ucchasva Ko Na  Jeevathi ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Devatha Athithi Bhrithyanam Prithrunam Athmanashcha  Ya: | Na Nirvapathi Panchanamucchvasanna Sa Jeevathi ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Kimsvidhth Gurutharam Bhoome: Kimsvithucchatharam Cha Khath | Kimsvithsccheghratharam Vayo: Kimsvidh Bahutharam  Thrinath ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Matha Guruthara Bhoome: Khath Pithocchatharasthadha | Mana: Sheeghratharam Vathacchintha  Bahuthari Thrinath ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

 Kimsvithsuptham Na  Nimishathi Kimsvijjatham Na Chopathi | Kasyasvidhdhridhayam Nasthi Kimsvidhvegena Vardhathe ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Mathsya: Suptho Na  Nimishathyandam Jatham Na  Chopathi | Ashmano Hridhayam Nasthi Nadhi  Vegena  Vardhathe ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Kimsvithpravasatho Mithram Kimsvinmithram Grihe  Satha: | Athurasya  Cha Kim Mithram Kimsvinmithram Marishyatha: ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Sarththa: Pravasatho Mithram Bharya  Mithram Grihe Satha: | Athurasya  Bhishangmithram Dhanam Mithram Marishyatha: ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Ko Athidhi: Sarvabhoothanam Kimsvidharmam Sanathanam | Amritham Kimsvidhrajendhra Kimsvith Sarvamidham Jagath ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Athidhi: Sarvabhoothanamagni: Somo Gavamritham | Sanathano Amritho Dharmo Vayu: Sarvamidham Jagath ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Kimsvidheko Vicharathe  Jatha: Ko  Jayathe Puna: | Kimsvidhdhimasya  Bhaishajyam Kimsvidhavapanam Mahath ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Surya Yeko Vicharathe  Chandrama  Jayathe Puna: | Agnir Himasya  Bhaishajyam Bhoomirapavanam Mahath ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Kimsvidhekapadham Dharmmyam Kimsvidhekapadham Yasha: | Kimsvidhekapadham Swargyam Kimsvidhekapadham Sukham ||

 

Yudhistira Uvacha –

Dhakshyamekapadham Dharmmyam Dhanamekapadham Yasha: | Sathyamekapadham Swargyam Sheelamekapadham Sukham ||

 

Yaksha Prashnam – Sri Mahabharath - Chapter – 3 – The conversation between Yaksha and Yudhishtira 18 – 33

 

 

Yaksha Prashnam – Sri Mahabharath

Chapter – 3 – The conversation between Yaksha and Yudhishtira 18 – 33   

Yashka speaks “Oh! Rajan, wish you all the auspiciousness! I am a  Yaksha, I am  not a pelican living in this pond, I have killed your mighty brothers.”

Sage Vaishampayana speaks “ Oh! Rajan, Yudhishtira approached the Yaksha who uttered extremely humiliating and harsh words. Bharathakula Yudhishtira saw the mighty Yaksha who had the dreadful appearance, crooked eyes, colossal body, had the stature of a palm tree, radiant like Surya and Agni, unconquerable, had the size of the mountain, seated on the huge tree and his speeches resemble lightning was reverberating in the entire wood.”

 

Yaksha spoke “Oh! Rajan, your brother’s were not willing to follow my orders, I have repeatedly asked to keep themselves away from their venture, and they did not stop. I have the same thing to ask you, if you love your life, do not drink this water. Oh! Partha, do not exhibit your valor here, it is the pond owned by my clan. You can answer all my queries and quench your thirst or carry the water with you.”

 

Yudhishtira spoke “Oh! Yaksha, I am not interested in the property owned by yourself and your clan, and the Sajjanas do not engage in self-praising and do not show interest in other’s property, therefore I will not take pride in my knowledge, I shall answer all your queries as per my knowledge, therefore you can ask questions to me.”

 

Q-1) Yaksha asks“Who causes sunrise/ Lord Aditya? Who travels with him? Who causes the sunset? And what’s the base of Aditya?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “The supreme Bhramam is the cause for the sunrise. The deities are the companions of Aditya. The Dharma causes for the sunset, and the existence of Aditya is on the base of ‘Truth’.

 

Q-2) Yaksha asks “How did the Jeeva achieve admiration and honor? How did the Jeeva achieve prominence in society? How did the Jeeva remain promising and magnanimous?  How did the Jeeva achieve supreme intellect?

 

Yudhishtira speaks “The ‘Vedadhyayana’/practice of Veda and Vedanta, makes a Jeeva respectable in the society. The Jeeva achieves greatness in the life with the ‘Tapasya’/austerities and vow, the Jeeva becomes promising and magnanimous with its intellect and the service to the elderly enhances the intellect of the Jeeva.

Q-3) Yaksha asks “What’s the divinity in the Bhramin/twice-born? What are the righteous deeds of the twice-born to follow as a Sajjana? What are the basic qualities required as an ordinary person for a Bhramin? What’s the nature of the Bhramin as a Dhurjjana?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “ Swadhyaya/the learning of Veda, Vedanta, and scriptures and imparts knowledge in it is the divinity of a Bahrain. Tapasya/performance of strict austerities and vow are the pre-requisites as Sajjana in the Bhramin. The wicked acts by words, deeds, and minds are the predominating nature of Dhurjjana and the wicked Bhramin as well.

 

Q-4)Yaksha speaks “ What are the qualities required for a Kshatriya? What are the divinities in them? What are the qualities required as an ordinary person in a Kshatriya? What are the wicked natures visible as a Dhurjjana in them?”

 

Yudhishtira speaks “The divinities in a Kshatriya is their bow and arrows/to fight against enemies and reinstate the law. The performance of Yajja/fire sacrifices and protect the Vipra, Go, noble souls, and the performance of sacrifices and rite for the welfare of the Universe and its living beings.  As ordinary people, the Kshatriyas also undergo extreme anxieties and fears/threats from neighboring countries and enemies/ while ensuring the welfare of the subjects of the Kingdom. The wickedness of a Kshatriya is abandoning the people who have taken shelter in them.”

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Yashoahamasmi Bhadhram The  Na Asmi Pakshi Jalechara: | Mayaithe Nihatha: Sarve  Bhratharasthe  Mahaujasa: ||

 

Vaishampayana Uvacha –

Thathasthamiva Shivam Shruthva  Vacham  Sa Parushaksharam | Yakshasya Bhruvatho Rajan Upakramya Thadha Sthitha: ||

 

Viroopaksham Mahakayam Yaksham Thalasamushchrayam | Jwalanarkka Pratheekashamadhrishyam Parvathopamam ||

 

Sethumashrithya  Thishtantham Dhadharsha  Bharatharshabha: | Megha Gambheeraya  Vacha Tharjjayantham Mahabalam ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Imethe Bhratharo  Rajan  Varyamana Maya Sakrith | Balaththoyam Jiheershanthasthatho Vai  Sudhiya Maya ||

 

Na Peyamudhakam Rajan Prananiha  Pareepsatha | Parththa Ma Sahasam Karsheermama Poorvaparigaha: | Prashnanukthva  Thu  Kauntheya Thatha; Piba Harasva Cha ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

 

Naivaham Kamaye  Yaksha  Thava  Poorvaparigraham | Kamam Naithath Prashamsanthi Santho Hi Purusha; Sadha ||

 

Yadhathmana Swamathmanam Prashamseth Purusha: Prabho | Yadhaprajjam Thu The  Prashnan Prathivakshyami Priccha Mam ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Kim Svidhadhithyamunnayathi Ke Cha  Thasyabhithashchara: | Kashchainamastham Nayathi Kasmishcha  Prathi Thishtathi ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Bhramadhithyam Unnayathi Devasthasyabhithashchara: |Dharmashchastham Nayathi Cha Sathye  Cha Prathi Thishtathi ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Kenasvischrothriyo Bhavathi Kenasvidhvindhathe Mahath | Kenasvidhvidheeyavan Vathi Rajan Kena cha  Budhdhiman ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Shruthena Shrothriyo Bhavathi Thapasa Vindhathe  Mahath | Dhrithya Dhvitheeyavan Bhavathi Budhdhiman Vridhdhasevaya ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Kim Bhramananam Devathvam Kashcha Dharmma: Sathamiva | Kashchaisham Manusho Bhava: Kimeshamasathamiva ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Swadhyaya Yesham Devathvam Thapa Yesham Sathamiva | Maranam Manusho Bhava: Parivadhoasthamiva ||

 

Yaksha Uvacha –

Kim Kshathriyanam Devathvam  Kashcha  Dharma: Sathamiva | Kashchaisham Manusho Bhava: Kimeshamasathamiva ||

 

Yudhishtira Uvacha –

Ishvasthramesham Devathvam Yajja Yesham Sathamiva | Bhayam Vai  Manusho Bhava: Parithyagoasathamiva ||