Shloka 95
Dama-pradhāna-dharma (Self-restraint as the Root of Dharma) — Śānti-parva 154
गृध्र उवाच अयं प्रेतसमाकीर्णो यक्षराक्षससेवित: । दारुण: काननोददेश: कौशिकैरभिनादित:
gṛdhra uvāca | ayaṃ pretasamākīrṇo yakṣarākṣasasevitaḥ | dāruṇaḥ kānanoddeśaḥ kauśikair abhināditaḥ ||
The vulture said: “This tract of forest is crowded with spirits and frequented by Yakṣas and Rākṣasas. It is a harsh and dreadful wilderness, resounding with the cries of owls. Therefore, this place is truly terrifying.”
गृध्र उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse underscores prudent discernment: when signs indicate danger—whether natural (a harsh wilderness) or symbolic (spirits, ominous cries)—one should not proceed blindly. Ethical action includes caution, situational awareness, and avoiding needless risk.
A vulture addresses a person (implied by the context) and warns that the surrounding forest-region is frightening and perilous, described as crowded with spirits, inhabited by Yakṣas and Rākṣasas, and echoing with the calls of owls—an ominous soundscape signaling danger.