Mahabharat Samhita Part 04

The provided text is the fourth part of the Mahabharata Samhita, focusing on the Anushasana, Asvamedhika, Asramavasika, Mausala, Mahaprasthanika, and Svargarohana Parvans (books). Published by the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute in Poona in 1975, it is a critical edition of the Mahabharata text.

This volume is comprehensive, covering a vast array of topics and narratives within these final books of the epic. Based on the index (Anukramanika) provided, the key sections and their themes include:

1. Anushasana Parva (Book 13): This is a substantial part of the volume, detailing various dharma principles, ethical discussions, and illustrative stories. Key subjects covered are: * Dana Dharma (The Law of Charity): Extensive sections on the merits and types of giving, including gifts of gold, land, water, cows, umbrellas, shoes, lamps, and fruits, and the results of these actions. * Descriptions of the Pious: Narratives elaborating on the qualities and virtues of worthy individuals. * Conversations and Teachings: Dialogues between various sages, gods, and characters like Vishwamitra, Sukra, Vasudeva, and Indra, discussing karma, duty, and spiritual paths. * Stories of Ascetics and Renunciates: Including tales of Upamanyu, Nachiketa, and the importance of austerity and self-discipline. * Worship of Deities: Emphasis on the worship of Shiva and Vishnu, with hymns and the significance of their names. * Conduct and Ethics: Discussions on various aspects of righteous living, including non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness, and respecting elders and guests. * Origin Stories: Accounts of the origins of various things, such as Karti Keya and the battles against Tarakavadha. * Funeral Rites and Ancestor Worship: Sections on Shraddha Kalpa and the importance of rituals for the departed. * The Cycle of Life and Death: Discussions on the nature of the soul and the cycle of rebirth (Samsara Chakra). * The Importance of Brahmins: Detailed praise and descriptions of Brahmins and their virtues.

2. Ashvamedhika Parva (Book 14): This book details the Ashvamedha Yajna (horse sacrifice) performed by Yudhishthira. It includes: * The Horse Sacrifice Ritual: The narrative of the horse sacrifice, including its purpose, procedures, and the participation of various kings and sages. * Advice from Krishna: Krishna's teachings and dialogues with Arjuna and others, including the Anugita. * Kings and their Deeds: Stories of various kings and their actions, such as Uttanka and Vasudeva. * Battles and Victories: Accounts of various skirmishes and triumphs, including those involving Parikshit and Vrishnyandhaka lineage.

3. Ashramavasika Parva (Book 15): This book focuses on the forest-dwelling period of Dhritarashtra and Gandhari, and the Pandavas' interactions with them. Key aspects include: * The Retirement of Dhritarashtra and Gandhari: Their decision to renounce the kingdom and move to the forest. * The Pandavas' Compassion: The Pandavas' care and respect for their aged relatives in the forest. * Discussions on Dharma: Conversations on duty, righteousness, and the principles of spiritual life. * The Fire Incident: The tragic event of the forest fire and the demise of Dhritarashtra and others.

4. Mausala Parva (Book 16): This book deals with the destruction of the Vrishni and Andhaka clans and the final days of Krishna and Balarama. * The Curse and its Consequences: The narrative of the curse leading to the downfall of the Yadu dynasty. * The Demise of Krishna and Balarama: The events leading to the end of their earthly existence. * The End of the Yadava Clan: The destruction of the Vrishnis and Andhakas. * Arjuna's Role: Arjuna's arrival and his actions in the aftermath.

5. Mahaprasthanika Parva (Book 17): This book describes the Great Departure of the Pandavas and Draupadi from their kingdom and their final journey towards heaven. * The Renunciation of the Pandavas: Their decision to leave Hastinapur and embark on their final journey. * The Journey: The arduous trek through the Himalayas, facing various challenges. * The Fall of the Companions: The gradual demise of each Pandava and Draupadi as they journeyed. * Yudhishthira's Perseverance: Yudhishthira's unwavering adherence to dharma until his final moments.

6. Svargarohana Parva (Book 18): This book details the ascent of Yudhishthira to heaven, accompanied by the divine messenger, and his reunion with his virtuous brothers and companions. * The Ascent to Heaven: Yudhishthira's journey and his encounters with divine beings. * The Heavenly Realm: Descriptions of the celestial abodes and the rewards of righteous deeds. * Reunion with Dharmaputra: Yudhishthira's ultimate reception in heaven and the reunion with his virtuous family.

The volume emphasizes the preservation and dissemination of the critical edition of the Mahabharata, with all rights reserved by the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute. The inclusion of page numbers for various chapters within the Anushasana Parva provides a detailed breakdown of the thematic structure of that section. The text is presented in Sanskrit with an English title page.