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: ||

Srimath Thriveni Sthothram – Sri Adishankaracharya

 

 

Oh! Srimath Prayage, Hail Thriveni!  The sacred river Prayaga which is the confluence of river Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswathi/Antharvahini/ symbolizes Mukthi, her sacred water removes the Maya of the Jeeva, she is adorned in various auspicious ornaments all over the body, and she removes the Bhaya/fears and anxieties, Thrana/afflictions of the devotees. The buzzing sounds of honey bees in the midst of fresh alluring flowers of rich fragrances reverberate on the banks of the sacred watercourse of river Prayaga. Oh! Srimath Prayage, Hail Thriveni!   She is the source of wealth and auspiciousness to the three worlds, her sacred waters are capable to remove Thapathraya of the devotees, and she is the source of Dharma, Artha, and the Kama. Oh! Srimath Prayage, Hail Thriveni!   Her sacred watercourse entices the Sidhdha, with his mesmerizing beauty, she is the source of Subodha/supreme knowledge of self which provides eternal bliss, and she removes the impurities in the Jeeva and purifies their intellect. Oh! Srimath Prayage, Hail Thriveni!  Her sacred water has the resemblance of Dhugdha and Dhadhi, she symbolizes auspiciousness, and her watercolor represents beautiful braided hair of lustrous blue with the sparkling golden in the middle. Oh! Srimath Prayage, Hail Thriveni!  Her attractive watercourse is adorned on the brownish matted hair locks of Vishweshwara. She is worshiped by Virinchi and Lord Vishnu. Her sacred watercourse symbolizes Veda, Purana, and deities. Oh! Srimath Prayage, Hail Thriveni!  Her sacred watercourse is capable to provide all the auspiciousness, richness, and welfare to her devotees. She symbolizes sacred syllables and Vedic Manthra. She removes the grave sins of the worshiper. Oh! Srimath Prayage, Hail Thriveni!  She is the life source of humans and animals as well. She is the source of supreme intellect and fortune. She liberates the souls from the vicious cycles of rebirth. Oh! Srimath Prayage, Hail Thriveni!  Her watercourse is attractive, she is supreme Goddess embodied as sacred water, unconquerable and melodious, she is magnanimous, she is adorned in marvelous gem decorated ornaments, and she has a lovely appearance. Oh! Srimath Prayage, Hail Thriveni!  Her sacred watercourse represents Kalindakanya who is eloquent and Bhageerathi who has descended from the matted hair locks of Mahesha. Oh! Srimath Prayage, Hail Thriveni!  She is supreme Goddess Bhavani who has manifested as sacred river Prayaga, confluences with Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswathi, she is Jagathjanani who has embodied as Triveni, and she symbolizes Trayirathna / precious gems of Veda. Whoever reads or listen to these glorious verses praising the sacred river Prayaga would please all the sacred rivers; finally, achieve the abode of Lord Vishnu with the grace of Goddess Bhavani.

 

Mukthamayalankritha Mudhra Veni Bhaktha Bhayathrana Subadhdha Veni | Maththali Gunjjama Makarandhaveni Srimath Prayage Jayathi Thriveni ||

 

Loka Thraishwarya Nidhana Veni Thapathraya Ucchadana Badhdhaveni | Dharma Arththa Kamakalanaika Veni Srimath Prayage Jayathi Thriveni ||

 

Mukthangana Mohana Sidhdhaveni Bhakthantharanandha Subodhaveni | Vriththyantharodhvega Vivekaveni Srimath Prayage Jayathi Thriveni ||

 

Dhugdhodhadhi Spoorja Subadhraveni Neelabhrashobha Lalitha Cha Veni | Swarnnaprabha Basuramadhyaveni Srimath Prayage Jayathi Thriveni ||

 

Vishweshwaroththunga Kapardhiveni Virinchi Vishnu Pranathaikaveni | Thrayipurana Surasardhaveni Srimath Prayage Jayathi Thriveni ||

 

Mangalya Sampaththi Samridhdhaveni Manthrantharanyastha Nidhanaveni | Parampara Pathakahariveni Srimath Prayage Jayathi Thriveni ||

 

Nimajjadhunmajja Manushyaveni Thrayodhayo Bhagya Vivekaveni | Vimuktha Janma Vibhavaikaveni Srimath Prayage Jayathi Thriveni ||

 

Saundharya Veni Surasardhaveni Madhuryaveni Mahaneeyaveni | Rathnaikaveni Ramaneeyaveni Srimath Prayage Jayathi Thriveni ||

 

Saraswathakara Vighathaveni Kalindhakanyamaya Lakshyaveni | Bhageerathiroopa Maheshaveni Srimath Prayage Jayathi Thriveni ||

 

Srimad Bhavani Bhavanaikaveni Lakshmi Saraswathyabhimana Veni | Matha Thriveni Thrayirathna Veni Srimath Prayage Jayathi Thriveni ||

 

Thrivenidhashakam Sthothram  Prathar Nithyam Paden Nara: | Thasya Veni Prasannasyath Vishnulokam Sa Gacchathi ||

 

|| Ithi Srimath Shankaracharya Virachitham Thriveni sthothram Sampoornnam||

 

 

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 ||

 

Anathma Sri Vigarhanam Prakaranam – Sri Adishankaracharya

 

Oh! Jeeva, If you have not attained the knowledge of the supreme Lord who is all-pervasive resides as a soul in you, what would you do with all those material welfare which has impermanent nature, like the knowledge in various art forms, the regime of the Kingdom, and stately honor and luxuries, immense wealth, respect and admiration in the society, possession of a beautiful woman as a wedded wife. Oh! Jeeva, If you have not attained the knowledge of the supreme Lord who is all-pervasive resides as a soul in you, what would you do with all those material welfare which has impermanent nature, the ornaments of Keyoora adorned on the body, attired in majestic silk garment, and sumptuous meal. Oh! Jeeva, if you have not attained the knowledge of supreme Lord who is all-pervasive, resides as a soul in you, what you would do with all that material welfare which has impermanent nature, like the visits to various foreign lands, having an excellent relationship with the families, difficulties, losses, sufferings of poverty in life. Oh! Jeeva, If you have not attained the knowledge of the Supreme Lord who is all-pervasive resides as a soul in you, what would you do with all those material welfare which has impermanent nature, after having a dip in various sacred Theerthas like Jahnu/Ganga, the performance of several Dhanam, and offering gifts, having a number of companions, after the recitation of various sacred chants for crores of times. Oh! Jeeva, If you have not attained the knowledge of the Supreme Lord who is all-pervasive, resides as soul in you, what would you do with all those material welfare which has impermanent nature, after having birth in the appropriate Gothra, having the body smeared in sacred ashes, having adored in Rudraksha all over the body. Oh! Jeeva, If you have not attained the knowledge of the Supreme Lord who is all-pervasive resides as a soul in you, what would you do with all those material welfare which has impermanent nature, after serving the Vipras with the sumptuous meal, performing several sacrificial rites to please the deities, having extraordinary fame all over the world. Oh! Jeeva, If you have not attained the knowledge of the Supreme Lord who is all-pervasive, resides as a soul in you, what would you do with all those material welfare which has impermanent nature, undertaking various austerities and vows, after achieving virtuous sons and wife, after practicing Pranayama like Yogic practices. Oh! Jeeva, If you have not attained the knowledge of the Supreme Lord who is all-pervasive, resides as a soul in you, what would you do with all those material welfare which has impermanent nature, after winning over the enemies, after having a large number of companions, after achieving various Siddhis with the performance of Yogic practices. Oh! Jeeva, If you have not attained the knowledge of the Supreme Lord who is all-pervasive, resides as a soul in you, what would you do with all those material welfare which has impermanent nature, after crossing the vast ocean, after suppressing the Air in the Kumbha, after achieving the possession of Mount Meru. Oh! Jeeva, If you have not attained the knowledge of the Supreme Lord who is all-pervasive, resides as a soul in you, what would you do with all those material welfare which has impermanent nature, after taking great pleasure in Dhugdha/milk products, and cooked grains, caged like a bird. Oh! Jeeva, If you have not attained the knowledge of the Supreme Lord who is all-pervasive, resides as a soul in you, what would you do with all those material welfare which has impermanent nature, after the purification from the sins, after achieving the precious metal like a body, and decorated Anjjana/kajol in the eyes. Oh! Jeeva, If you have not attained the knowledge of the Supreme Lord who is all-pervasive, resides as a soul in you, what would you do with all those material welfare which has impermanent nature, after receiving the status of Bhoopendra/ruler of Bhuloka,  after achieving the status of  Devendhrathva/ruler of celestial abodes, after obtaining the shaven head/Sanyasa. Oh! Jeeva, If you have not attained the knowledge of the supreme Lord who is all-pervasive resides as a soul in you, what would you do with all those material welfare which has impermanent nature, after obtaining profound knowledge in Manthra to put a halt on everything, after obtaining the extraordinary skill in the usage of bow and arrow to break the object, after achieving the Kalajjyana/knowledge of past, present, and future. Oh! Jeeva, If you have not attained the knowledge of the Supreme Lord who is all-pervasive resides as a soul in you, what would you do with all those material welfare which has impermanent nature, after obtaining perfect control over lust, desire, anger, and anguish, etc. Oh! Jeeva, If you have not attained the knowledge of the Supreme Lord who is all-pervasive resides as a soul in you, what would you do with all those material welfare which has impermanent nature, achieving the sense of abandonment of  desire, living a humble and modest life, and freed from jealous, displeasure, dissatisfaction etc. Oh! Jeeva, If you have not attained the knowledge of supreme Lord who is all-pervasive resides as a soul in you, what would you do with all those material welfare which has impermanent nature, after accomplished in Dhathuloka, after witnessing Vishnuloka, and governed in Shambuloka. Oh! Jeeva, If you have no control over sense or the knowledge of that supreme Lord who resides as a soul in living beings, none of the above mentioned achievements, knowledge in art forms, the performance of austerities, vow, sacrificial rites, wealth, fame, possession would not help you to protect you from the vicious cycles of rebirth. Unfortunately, you will be thrown into the world of illusions, eventually get drenched in the worldly matters and bondages, which could not provide Athmasakshathkara/realization of self.

 

Labdha Vidhya Rajyamanya Thatha: Kim | Praptha  Sampathprabhavadya Thatha: Kim | Bhuktha Nari Sundarangi Thatha: Kim | Yena  Swathma  Naiva  Sakshathkrithoabhooth ||

 

Keyooradhyairbhooshitho Va Thatha: Kim | Kausheyadhyairavritho Va Thatha: Kim | Thriptho Mrishtanna Dhina Va Thatha: Kim | Yena Swathma Naiva  Sakshathkrithoabhooth||

 

Dhrishta  Nana Charudheshasthatha: Kim | Pushtasheshta Bandhuvargasthatha: Kim | Nashtam Dharidhryadhi Dhukham Thatha: Kim | Yena  Swathma  Naiva  Sakshathkrithoabhooth ||

 

Snathastheerthe Jahnu Jadhau Thatha: Kim | Dhanam Dhaththam Dhrishtyasamkhyam Thatha: Kim | Japtha Manthra: Kotisho Va Thatha: Kim | Yena  Swathma Naiva Sakshathkrithoabhooth ||

 

Gothram Samyagbhooshitham Va Thatha: Kim | Gathram Bhasmashchadhitham Va Thatha: Kim | Rudrakshadhi: Sadhdhritho Va Thatha: Kim | Yena  Swathma Naiva  Sakshathkrithoabhooth ||

 

Annair Viprastharpitha  Va Thatha: Kim | Yajjyair Devasthoshitha Va Thatha: Kim | Keerthya  Vyaptha: Sarvalokasthatha: Kim | Yena Swathma  Naiva  Sakshathkrithoabhooth ||

 

Kaya; Klishtashchopavasaisthatha: Kim | Labdha; Puthra: Sweeya Pathyansthatha: Kim | Pranayama: Sadhitho Va Thatha: Kim | Yena  Swathma Naiva Sakshathkrithoabhooth ||

 

Yudhdhe  Shathrurnirjitho Va Thatha: Kim | Bhooyo Mithrai: Pooritho Va Thatha:  Kim | Yogai:  Praptha: Sidhdhayo Va Thatha: Kim | Yena Swathma Naiva  Sakshathkrithoabhooth ||

 

Abdhi: Padhbhyam Langhitho Va Thatha: Kim | Vayu: Kumbhe  Sthapitho Va Thatha: Kim | Meru: Panavudhritho Va Thatha: Kim |  Yena  Swathma  Naiva  Sakshathkrithoabhooth ||

 

Kshvela: Peetho Dhugdhavadhva Thatha: Kim | Vahnir Jagdho Lajavadhva Thatha: Kim | Prapthashchara: Pakshivathkhe Thatha: Kim | Yena Swathma Naiva  Sakshathkrithoabhooth ||

 

Badhdha: Samyak Pavakadhyasthatha: Kim | Sakshadhvidhdha Lohavaryasthatha: Kim | Labdho Nikshepoajjanadhyaisthatha: Kim | Yena Swathma  Naiva Sakshathkrithoabhooth ||

 

Bhoopendhrathvam Prapthamurvyam Thatha: Kim | Dhevendhrathvam Sambhritham Va Thatha: Kim | Mundeedhrathvam Chopalabdham Thatha: Kim | Yena Swathma  Naiva  Sakshathkrithoabhooth ||

 

Manthrair: Sarva: Sthambhitho Va Thatha: Kim | Banairlakshyo Bhedhitho Va Thatha: Kim | Kalajjyanam Chapi Labdham Thatha: Kim | Yena Swathma Naiva Sakshathkrithoabhooth ||

 

Kamathanga: Ganditho Va Thatha: Kim | Kopavesha; Kunditho Va Thatha: Kim | Lobhashlesho Varjjitho Va Thatha: Kim| Yena Swathma Naiva Sakshathkrithoabhooth ||

 

Mohadhvantha: Peshitho Va Thatha: Kim | Jatho Bhoomau Nirmadho Va Thatha: Kim | Mathsaryarthirmeelitha Va Thatha: Kim | Yena Swathma Naiva Sakshathkrithoabhooth ||

Dhathur Loka: Sadhitho Va Thatha: Kim | Vishnurloko Veekshitho Va Thatha: Kim | Shambhorloka: Shasitho Va  Thatha: Kim | Yena Swathma Naiva Sakshathkrithoabhooth ||

 

Yasyedham Hridhaye  Samyaganathma Shri Vigarhanam | Sadhodhethi Swathma Sakshathkarasya Bhajanam | Anye Thu Mayika Jagadh Bhranthi Vyamoha Mohitha: | Na Thesham Jayathe  Kvapi Swathma Sakshathkrithir Bhuvi ||

 

||Ithi Srimath Paramahamsa Parivrajakacharasya Sri Govinda Bhagavath Poojyapadhashishyasya Srimath Shankarabhagavatha: Krithau Anathmasri Vigarhana Prakaranam Sampoornnam ||

 

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 ||

 

Kashi Panchakam – Sri Adishankaracyara

 

Kashi Panchakam – Sri Adishankaracyara

 

The sacred land Kashi symbolizes Nijabodharoopa/ it imparts the knowledge of supreme Bhramam, it is the source Manonivriththi/ it is the source of happiness, satisfaction, contentment, it removes the interest in worldly matters and bondage, it is the source of Paramopashanthi/serenity, tranquility, peace of mind. The sacred land Kashi is the abode of excellent Manikarnnika Theertha, and the abode of sacred Ganga who symbolizes Gnanapravaha which is the purifier of souls with the supreme wisdom.  The sacred land Kashi symbolizes Nijabhodharoopam/imparts the knowledge of supreme Bhramam, it removes the illusion/Maya wielded in the Jeeva and enlightens the soul with the knowledge of the supreme soul, that has the nature of Sachith/Sath+Chith/indestructible, Sukha/welfare and Paramathma resides as a soul in Jeeva.  The sacred land Kashi symbolizes the Nijabodharoopa which imparts the knowledge of absolute Bramham/oneness-in-all/supreme soul which is changeless, all-pervasive and eternal. The five sheaths/Panchakosha, AnnamayaKosha, Pranamaya Kosha, Manomaya Kosha, Vijyanamaya Kosha, and Anandhamaya Kosha, and Devi Bhavani as intellect, and Lord Shiva as Sakshi/Prana resides as soul in living beings.  The sacred land Kashi is the princess of Kashi/ruling over the Kashi, and Kashi is Sarvaprakashika/enlightens the Jeeva with the supreme knowledge of Bhramam, and Oh! Jeeva, it is impossible to attain that supreme Kashi without wisdom.  The sacred Kashi represents the body, the Thribhuvana Janani/who is the source of the three worlds,  and  all-pervasive, the Gnanaganga/stream of wisdom, the practice of meditation and contemplation upon that supreme Bhramam with the Bhakti /devotion and Shraddha/dedication, sincere veneration at the lotus feet of the preceptor,  would enlighten the Jeeva with the knowledge of the supreme soul who resides as a soul in living beings,  with the knowledge of all-pervasive and eternal Bhramam, it would  protect the Jeeva from achieving the body once again/protects from rebirth.

 

Upajani Chandha:

Mano Nivriththi: Paramopa Shanthi : | Sa Theerthavarya Manikarnika Cha | Gnana Pravaha Vimaladhi Ganga| Sa Kashika Aham Nijabodharoopa||

 

Yasyamidham Kalpitham Indrajalam | Characharam Bhathi Manovilasam | Sachith Sukhaika Paramathmaroopa | Sa Kashika Aham Nijabhodharoopa ||

 

Indhravraja Chandha:

Kosheshu Panchasvadhirajamana | Budhdhir Bhavani Prathidheha Geham | Sakshi Shiva: Sarvagatho Antharathma | Sa Kashika Aham Nijabhodharoopa||

 

Anushtup Chandha:

Kashyam Hi Kashyathe  Kashi Kashi Sarvaprakashika | Sa Kashi Vidhitha Yena Thena Praptha Hi Kashika ||

 

Sraghdhara Chandha:

Kashi Kshethram Shareeram Thribhuvana Janani Vyapini Gnana Ganga | Bhakthi: Shradhdha Gayeyam Nijaguru Charana Dhyanayoga: Prayaga: | Vishveshoayam Thureeya: Sakalajana Mana: Sakshi Bhoothoantharathma | Dhehe Sarvam Madheeye Yadhi Vasathi Punastheerthamanyathkimasthi ||

 

||Ithi Srimad Shankaracharya Virachitham Kashipanchakam Samaptham ||