Shloka 12
Śiśupāla-nigraha-prastāva: Yudhiṣṭhira’s Conciliation and Bhīṣma’s Defense of Kṛṣṇa
Book 2, Chapter 35
रत्नैश्व बहुभिस्तत्र धर्मराजमवर्धयत् । कथं तु मम कौरव्यो रत्नदानै: समाप्नुयात्
ratnaiś ca bahubhis tatra dharmarājam avardhayat | kathaṃ tu mama kauravyo ratnadānaiḥ samāpnuyāt ||
Vaiśampāyana said: There, with many precious gems, he enhanced the honor and standing of Dharmarāja (Yudhiṣṭhira). Yet the Kaurava (Duryodhana) wondered, ‘How can my purpose ever be fulfilled merely by giving jewels?’—hinting that outward gifts and displays of wealth cannot by themselves secure the deeper aims of prestige, superiority, or moral legitimacy.
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse contrasts external generosity (lavish jewel-gifts) with inner aims and moral standing: wealth can enhance public honor, but it cannot by itself secure legitimacy, superiority, or the deeper fulfillment of one’s ambitions—especially when driven by rivalry or envy.
In the context of the royal assembly and displays of prosperity, Dharmarāja’s stature is increased through abundant gifts of gems. The Kaurava (Duryodhana) reflects with dissatisfaction, questioning how his own objective could be achieved merely through such jewel-giving—foreshadowing his competitive and resentful mindset.