Kurmastakadvyam

Author(s): Bhojdev Maharaj
Publisher: L D Indology Ahmedabad

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Kūrmaśatakadvayam
28. It is not possible for any one to divine-to discover by guessing-the
determination (adhyavasāya) of other people. This Tortoise, however, knew [even) the determination which was not contained even in the
minds of others. 29. The Tortoise bears the earth (on its back). But o accursed (or
wretched) Fate, you put the Pole Star (Dhruva) above the earth ! You should have honoured proper (or right-sādhu) behaviour or conduct
(carita)! What else can we say ? (=What else can be said ?) 30. We do not see that good behaviour (or right conduct) or birth is the
cause (deciding factor) of one's determination (or resolution). Look at a muni (sage, holy man) and the Tortoise (kacchapa) and see their
determination. 31. Sacrificing one's own happiness you are bearing in that indescribable
manner the burden of the world (the earth), O Tortoise, well done, well done (very nice bravo) ! You have achieved unique greatness
[anyad mahattvam (Sk.)] ! 32. A wicked person says (derisively) :the Tortoise has carried the burden
(of the earth) on its back ! Even this is done by the Tortoise. Tell us, tell
us if any one else has done it. [Of course none else has done this feat.] 33. A wicked person says [scornfully] that the Tortoise is carrying the
burden [of the earth] on its back! This statement) makes it clear that even the back of the Tortoise carries the burden (of the earth.) Note : The poet seems to suggest the Tortoise's unique way of carrying
the burden. Generally we use for this purpose our hands or head ! 34. Here (in this world everyone strives to secure one's own happiness.
You alone, O Tortoise, strive without any such motive (or purpose). Even after thinking (for a long time), O Tortoise we do not know (we
cannot fathom) what your motive could be. 35. The surface (kaditta*) of the earth is blank devoid of lines (rekhas)
drawn to indicate greatness (of eminent personages). But look ! there is only one single line indicating the greatness of the Tortoise. [* kaditta, the corresponding word in Sanskrit is katitra, meaning 1-a cloth girt round the loins 2-a zone, girdle. These meanings do not suit
the context. We have tentatively translated it as 'surface'.] 36. The creator created the weighty earth, lo behold ! without any support
whatsoever ! Who also would support it ? None else can possibly support it-with this thought the Tortoise supported it on its back.