, an
account of thy illustrious father's life, and how also that king of kings
left this world. Thy father was virtuous and high-souled, and always
protected his people. O, hear, how that high-souled one conducted himself
on earth. Like unto an impersonation of virtue and justice, the monarch,
cognisant of virtue, virtuously protected the four orders, each engaged in
the discharge of their specified duties. Of incomparable prowess, and
blessed with fortune, he protected the goddess Earth. There was none who
hated him and he himself hated none. Like unto Prajapati (Brahma) he was
equally disposed towards all creatures. O monarch, Brahmanas and
Kshatriyas and Vaisyas and Sudras, all engaged contentedly in the practice
of their respective duties, were impartially protected by that king.
Widows and orphans, the maimed and the poor, he maintained. Of handsome
features, he was unto all creatures like a second Soma. Cherishing his
subjects and keeping them contented, blessed with good fortune, truth-
telling, of immense prowess, he was the disciple of Saradwat in the
science of arms. And, O Janamejaya, thy father was dear unto Govinda. Of
great fame, he was loved by all men. And he was born in the womb of Uttara
when the Kuru race was almost extinct. And, therefore, the mighty son of
Abhimanyu came to be called Parikshit (born in an extinct line). Well-
versed in the interpretation of treatises on the duties of kings, he was
gifted with every virtue.
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