Kurmastakadvyam

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

Page 42

Two Prakrit Poems At Dhar Translation....
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37. When limbs (avayavas) are there, it would have been very nice if the
back were not to carry the burden ! The Tortoise even without them
carries (the burden of) the earth. 38. A truly new path of doing good to others, which was not seen by
anybody (before) and which was never before cut (? khunna) here on
earth, was for the first time made by the Tortoise. 39. That you, O Tortoise, were born, was enough. What is the use of others
who are born in vain? By entrusting the burden of the earth to you the
people live happily. 40. That indeed is a real resolveor determination (adhyavasāya) which
nobody else would ever follow or pursue. It stops-stands still-(thakka Sk. sthita) with the Tortoise itself. Others remain others only, poor
creatures ! 41. Who would know the correct number of beings here on earth whose
bodies (tanu), are intent on accomplishing their work. It is the leader of the Tortoises only, whose not only body but soul also is intent on
doing good to others. 42. Others too, whose number is countless, are born in this world. You too,
Tortoise, are born like them. But the way you act-behave - distinguishes you from all others. Note : Pischel says in a footnote : The second verse means : “In one way
or another (?), however, another special lot has falled to you." 43. Set the supporting (or carrying) of the earth aside; it is not possible
even to think of it in one's mind. Even that inconceivable thing the Tortoise has done. The course (of conduct or behaviour) of the great
is extraordinary ! 44. The people applaud the carrying or supporting the earth (on its back)
by the Chief of Tortoises. Of what sort is the difficultness or heaviness of the burden ? The Tortoise is never known to have his back fractured
or broken ! 45. Were not many (great) people born here (on the earth) ? Are not
many born at the same time (with the Tortoise Chief) ? Excepting the Chief of Tortoises, tell me, who else has carried the burden of the earth
(or supported the earth) (on its back) ? 46. The whole world breathes with the breathing of the chief of the
Tortoises. Who can equal him ? He alone (the chief of the Tortoises alone) was (really speaking) born of his mother !