Shloka 146
Nakṣatra-yoga-anusāreṇa Dāna-vidhiḥ
Gifts prescribed according to lunar mansions and yogas
येषां दारा: प्रतीक्षन्ते पर्जन्यमिव कर्षका: । जैसे किसान वर्षाकी बाट जोहते रहते हैं
yeṣāṃ dārāḥ pratīkṣante parjanyam iva karṣakāḥ |
Wika ni Bhishma: “Yaong ang mga asawa’y naghihintay na may pangambang pag-asa—gaya ng magsasakang naghihintay ng ulan—nakaupo sa bahay, umaasang may pagkain, at inaaliw ang mga anak sa pangakong, ‘Babalik na ang inyong ama, dala ang hapunan’—may mga Brahman bang ganyan na kumain sa inyong bahay at saka umuwi sa kanila?”
भीष्म उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse underscores the ethical urgency of dāna and hospitality: neglecting to feed deserving guests—especially Brahmins dependent on alms—creates real suffering at home, where families wait for sustenance. One should give in time, with empathy for those who rely on one’s generosity.
Bhishma, instructing on dharma, poses a pointed question to his listener: whether Brahmins whose households are anxiously awaiting food have been properly fed and sent home satisfied. The image of farmers waiting for rain intensifies the sense of dependence and distress.