Shloka 120
Adhyaya 32: Saṃjaya’s Return, Audience with Dhṛtarāṣṭra, and Ethical Admonition
यः सर्वभूतप्रशमे निविष्ट: सत्यो मृदुर्मानकृच्छुद्ध भाव: । अतीव स ज्ञायते ज्ञातिमध्ये महामणिर्जात्य इव प्रसन्न:
yaḥ sarvabhūtapraśame niviṣṭaḥ satyo mṛdur mānakṛc chuddhabhāvaḥ | atīva sa jñāyate jñātimadhye mahāmaṇir jātya iva prasannaḥ ||
Vidura says: A person who is devoted to calming all beings, who speaks truth, is gentle, who shows respect to others, and whose inner disposition is pure—such a one becomes conspicuously renowned among his own kin, like a splendid great gem, freshly mined from a good source, shining with clarity.
विदुर उवाच
Educational Q&A
Vidura teaches that true excellence is ethical: one who actively promotes peace for all beings, speaks truth, behaves gently, honors others, and maintains inner purity naturally becomes distinguished among one’s community—like a bright, high-quality gem recognized by its luster.
In the Udyoga Parva’s counsel-filled context, Vidura is offering moral instruction (nīti) to guide conduct amid rising conflict. This verse highlights the traits that make a person respected and influential among their own people, emphasizing peace-making and integrity.