And Bhimasena then said, 'This wretch given to wicked deeds
doth not deserve to escape me with life. But what can I do? The king is
so lenient!' And then taking Susarman by the neck as he was lying on the
ground insensible and covered with dust, and binding him fast, Pritha's
son Vrikodara placed him on his car, and went to where Yudhishthira was
staying in the midst of the field. And Bhima then showed Susarman unto
the monarch. And beholding Susarman in that plight, that tiger among men
king Yudhishthira smilingly addressed Bhima--that ornament of
battle,--saying, 'Let this worst of men be set free.' Thus addressed,
Bhima spoke unto the mighty Susarman, saying, 'If, O wretch, thou
wishest to live, listen to those words of mine. Thou must say in every
court and assembly of men,--_I am a slave._ On this condition only I
will grant thee thy life. Verily, this is the law about the vanquished.'
Thereupon his elder brother affectionately addressed Bhima, saying, 'If
thou regardest us as an authority, liberate this wicked wight. He hath
already become king Virata's slave.' And turning then to Susarman, he
said, 'Thou art freed. Go thou a free man, and never act again in this
way.'"
[32] Some Vikshyainam, Nilakantha explains Sama as a word spoken
by Bhima for assuring the captive Virata, and Vikshya as
'assuring' or 'consoling by a glance.' Perhaps this is right.
[33] The adjective Bhima-sankasas as explained by Nilakantha is
in this sense, quoting the celebrated simile of Valmiki.
Pages:
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129