Srimad Bhagvata Mahapurana Book 10 Chapter 49:15-25

Book 10: Forty-nine Chapter (First Half)

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Srimad Bhagvata Mahapurana: Book 10: Chapter 49: Verses 15-25

Akrura, to whom joy and sorrow made no difference, and the highly renowned Vidura comforted Kunti by reminding her of those responsible for the birth of her sons (viz., Dharma, Vayu, Indra and the two Aswins). Approaching the king (Dhrtarastra)---who differentiated between his own sons and nephews and was (particularly) fond of the former-while about to return (to Mathura), Akrura repeated in the midst of his kinsmen what was communicated (to the king) out of goodwill by his relations (Sri Krsna, Balarama and others). Akrura said : 0 son of Vicitravirya, 0 enhancer of the glory of the Kurus, your (younger) brother, Pandu, having demised, you have now ascended the throne (of Hastinapura). Ruling over the earth with piety, gratifying the people with your good conduct and behaving impartially towards your own people (viz., your sons and the sons of Pandu) you will attain prosperity and renown. Acting otherwise, you will be censured in the world (during your lifetime) and go (down) to hell (after your death). Therefore, behave impartially towards the sons of Pandu and your own. And there is no (possibility of one's) living together perpetually with anyone anywhere in this world----even with one's own body, 0 king; how, then, could one expect to live eternally with one's wife, children and so on? A creature is born alone and dies all by itself. Alone it enjoys the fruit of its good deeds and alone does it reap the consequences of its misdeeds. Others going by the names of son etc., (that deserve to be nourished) drain the unrighteously accumulated wealth of the foolish one (even) as the brood of an aquatic animal share its waters (which constitute its very life as it were). Life, riches and sons etc., that a man nourishes through unrighteousness under the (false) notion that they are his own (ultimately) forsake the stupid fellow for good (even) when he (feels that he) has not yet accomplished his purpose (the enjoyment of pleasures). Deserted by them (even) when his object has not (yet) been achieved, and carrying (with him) his (load of) sins a man who is ignorant of his own (real) interest and (therefore) has his face turned away from his own duty himself descends (after death) into the dismal hell. Therefore, realizing this world, 0 king, to be a (mere) dream, illusion or fancy, and controlling your mind with your reason, be composed and impartial (to all), 0 lord !

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