Shloka 23
Jñāna-yoga and Karma-phala: Manu–Bṛhaspati on Akṣara and the Limits of Mantra
श्मश्रुकर्मणि सम्प्राप्ते क्षुते सनाने5डथ भोजने । व्याधितानां च सर्वेषामायुष्यमभिनन्दनम्
śmaśrukarmaṇi samprāpte kṣute snāne ’tha bhojane | vyādhitānāṃ ca sarveṣām āyuṣyam abhinandanam ||
Bhīṣma said: After shaving (or grooming the beard), after sneezing, after bathing, and after taking food—and likewise in the case of all who are afflicted by illness—it is a life-promoting duty to offer respectful salutations and words of goodwill (especially to Brāhmaṇas). Such reverent greeting is praised as conducive to longevity and well-being.
भीष्म उवाच
Educational Q&A
Cultivating respectful greetings and salutations—particularly toward Brāhmaṇas—at key daily moments (after grooming, sneezing, bathing, and eating) is presented as dharmic conduct that supports health, auspiciousness, and longevity, even for the sick.
In Śānti Parva, Bhīṣma instructs on righteous living and proper conduct. Here he lists everyday occasions and prescribes abhinandana (courteous salutations/blessings) as a beneficial observance tied to well-being and long life.