Shloka 54
Vidura-nīti: Atithi-dharma, Trust, Counsel-Secrecy, and Traits of Sustainable Rule
Udyoga Parva, Adhyāya 38
आयत्यां प्रतिकारज्ञस्तदात्वे दृढनिश्चय: । अतीते कार्यशेषज्ञो नरो्र्थनन प्रहीयते
āyatyāṁ pratikārajñas tadātve dṛḍhaniścayaḥ | atīte kāryaśeṣajño naro 'rthena na prahīyate ||
A person who knows how to avert future troubles, who is firm and resolute in performing what must be done in the present, and who also understands what duties from the past still remain unfinished—such a person is never deprived of prosperity and practical success.
विदुर उवाच
Educational Q&A
Vidura teaches integrated practical wisdom: anticipate and prevent future harm, act decisively in the present, and clear past unfinished duties. Such balanced vigilance and responsibility sustains one’s artha (well-being and resources).
In Vidura’s counsel during the Udyoga Parva, he offers Nīti-oriented guidance on governance and personal conduct, emphasizing foresight, timely action, and accountability as foundations for enduring prosperity.