Jarāsandha as Obstacle to the Rājasūya — Kṛṣṇa’s Strategic Genealogical Brief
Sabhā Parva, Adhyāya 13
गुरुवद् भूतगुरवे प्राहिणोद् दूतमज्जसा । शीघ्रगेन रथेनाशु स दूत: प्राप्प पयादवान्
guruvad bhūtagurave prāhiṇod dūtam ajjasā | śīghrageṇa rathenāśu sa dūtaḥ prāppa yādavān ||
ஆசிரியருக்குரிய மரியாதையுடன், உயிர்களின் குருவான அவரிடத்தில் உடனே தூதனை அனுப்பினான். வேகமான தேரில் சென்ற அந்தத் தூதன் விரைவில் யாதவர்களை அடைந்தான்.
वैशम्पायन उवाच
The verse highlights dharmic conduct in governance: show proper reverence to venerable elders and act without delay when seeking guidance or securing necessary support. Ethical decision-making is strengthened by timely consultation and respectful diplomacy.
A messenger is dispatched immediately, with due respect to a revered elder, and the envoy travels quickly by chariot to reach the Yādavas. The scene emphasizes urgency and the importance of contacting influential allies or wise counsel.