Shloka 3
नलस्य पुष्करजयो द्यूते
Nala’s Victory over Puṣkara in the Dice-Game
तं॑ भीम: प्रतिजग्राह पुत्रवत् परया मुदा । यथाहँ पूजयित्वा च समाश्चासयत प्रभु:
taṁ bhīmaḥ pratijagrāha putravat parayā mudā | yathārhaṁ pūjayitvā ca samāścāsayat prabhuḥ ||
Bhīma received him with overflowing joy, as one would welcome a son. After honoring him in a manner befitting his worth, the powerful Bhīma had him seated comfortably, showing the dharmic courtesy due to a respected guest and elder.
बृहृदश्च उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights dharmic hospitality: a worthy guest—especially an elder or revered person—should be welcomed with heartfelt warmth, honored according to merit (yathārham), and given comfort. Ethical strength is shown not only in power but in respectful conduct.
Bṛhadaśva speaks, describing how Bhīma warmly receives him with filial affection, honors him appropriately, and then seats him comfortably, establishing Bhīma as a proper host and setting the stage for further counsel or narration.