Shloka 109
Adhyaya 32: Saṃjaya’s Return, Audience with Dhṛtarāṣṭra, and Ethical Admonition
न संरम्भेणारभते त्रिवर्ग- माकारित: शंसति तत्त्वमेव । न मित्रार्थे रोचयते विवादं नापूजित: कुप्यति चाप्यमूढ:
na saṃrambheṇārabhate trivargam ākāritaḥ śaṃsati tattvam eva | na mitrārthe rocayate vivādaṃ nāpūjitaḥ kupyati cāpy amūḍhaḥ ||
Vidura describes the mark of a truly wise and steady person: one who does not set the three aims of life—dharma, artha, and kāma—into motion out of rash impulse; who, when questioned, speaks only what is true; who does not relish quarrel even for a friend’s sake; and who, when not honored, does not grow angry—remaining unconfused and clear-minded. Such self-restraint and truthfulness are presented as the ethical foundation for conduct amid the tensions of the Udyoga Parva.
विदुर उवाच
Educational Q&A
A wise person is recognized by restraint and integrity: they do not act from rash impulse, speak truth when asked, avoid needless dispute even for allies, and remain unangered by lack of honor—showing steady discernment (amūḍhatā).
In Udyoga Parva, as conflict looms, Vidura offers ethical counsel (nīti) describing the qualities of a commendable person. The verse functions as guidance for conduct and speech amid political tension and provocation.