Yudhiṣṭhira’s Procession, Encampment (Niveśa), and Auspicious Timing for Ritual Action
कृतमेव महाराज भवेदिति मतिर्मम । 'प्रभो! महाराज! यदि हमें मरुत्तका धन प्राप्त हो जाय तब तो हमारा सारा काम बन ही जाय। यही मेरा मत है
kṛtam eva mahārāja bhaved iti matir mama | prabho! mahārāja! yadi asmābhyaṁ maruttakā dhanaṁ prāptaṁ bhavet, tataḥ khalu asmākaṁ sarvaṁ kāryaṁ banam eva yāyāt | eṣa eva mama mataḥ |
Sinabi ni Vaiśaṃpāyana: “O dakilang hari, sa aking paghatol, ganap na maisasakatuparan ang bagay na ito. O panginoon, O Mahārāja—kung makamtan natin ang kayamanan ni Marutta, tiyak na matitiyak ang lahat ng ating layunin at lubos na magtatagumpay ang ating gawain. Iyan ang aking pinag-isipang pasya.”
वैशम्पायन उवाच
The verse highlights pragmatic counsel in royal undertakings: securing adequate resources (here, the famed wealth of Marutta) can determine whether a large enterprise succeeds. It also reflects the ethical tension in epic politics—ends are discussed in terms of completion and success, while the means (acquiring wealth) invite scrutiny in the broader narrative.
Vaiśaṃpāyana, narrating to the king, conveys an adviser-like judgment: if they can obtain Marutta’s wealth, their entire plan will be accomplished. The line functions as a strategic recommendation within the Ashvamedhika Parva’s post-war royal activities and preparations.