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Here is the translation of the provided text from the Padma Purana into English while retaining the Sanskrit terms:
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34
In the Padma Purana
What is the point of claiming prowess in victory over the mlecchas (barbarian tribes)? You glorify the supreme power that is accessible to the knowers of the earth. (Verse 14)
By defining the mlecchas, you composed a hymn to the lotus;
However, because of this action, it should rather be criticized—
Oh, what a great laughing matter! (Verse 142)
In the poisonous fruit of childhood, in the enmity of poverty, and in the dry trees,
It is said that the nature of beings is difficult to part with. (Verse 143)
Therefore, abandon your false connection with those who move on the earth,
And now form a connection with the king of the Vidyadharas (masters of knowledge). (Verse 144)
Where are the Vidyadharas, who possess great wealth and resemble the gods, who move through the sky?
And where are the small earth-bound creatures, who are indeed utterly miserable? (Verse 145)
Subsequently, the father [Janaka] replied:
The immensely vast ocean of salt does not accomplish what a small pond of sweet water can. (Verse 146)
Extreme darkness is indeed very heavy;
Yet what purpose does it serve when the endeavors of people are generated by a little lamp, meaning all tasks are accomplished? (Verse 147)
Countless elephants that shed intoxication cannot accomplish what a young lion, with a mane bright as the moon, can do. (Verse 148)
Upon hearing this, many Vidyadharas exclaimed in unison that it is not so,
And they began to decry the earth-dwellers. (Verse 149)
They said that earth-dwellers lack the glory of knowledge, are continuously drenched in sweat,
Are devoid of valor and wealth, and are indeed very pitiable. (Verse 150)
Oh, Janaka! Tell me, what difference do you see between them and the animals,
That you, in your ignorance, are praising them in such a manner? (Verse 151)
Then the wise Janaka said,
Alas! It is a great distress for me, a sinner,
To hear the slander of the earth-dwellers who are the best of kings. (Verse 152)
How can one who is renowned in the three worlds not be considered to be purifying the world? (Commentary on references 1-8)
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This translation maintains the essence of the original text while providing clarity in English.