yudhi·shthira said:
H
ow should a man conduct himself so that he might wander the earth free from sorrow, O master of conduct? Through what worldly deed does a man attain the highest destiny?
bhishma said:
On this subject people relate the ancient tradition of a dialogue between Prahrada and the sage
Aja·gara.* The wise King Prahrada put the following questions to a certain wandering brahmin, who was able minded and healthy, and considered by all to be intelligent.
prahrada said:
179.5
Being content, accomplished, gentle, restrained, free from desire and envy, eloquent, confident, learned and wise, you live like a child! You do not hanker after acquisitions and you do not lament your losses. You always seem to be satisfied, brahmin, as if you were thinking about nothing at all. Although creatures are carried away in the torrent of life, you do not seem to be troubled. In matters of religion, pleasure and material gain, you appear to be as immovable as a mountain peak.*
You take no notice of religion or material gain, and do not incline towards pleasure. Forsaking the objects of the senses, you wander about in a state of release, just like a detached witness. What is your wisdom, learning and conduct, silent sage? Tell me immediately, brahmin, that which you consider supreme in this world.