SECTION XIII.Parāçara said—The sons of Satwata were Bhajina Bhajamāna, Divya, Andhaka, Devavriddha, Mahābhoja and Vrishni. Bhajamāna had three sons, Nimi, Krikana, and Vrishni by one wife and as many by another, Satajit, Sahasrajit and Ayutajit. The son of Devavridha was Babhru of whom this verse is recited—"We hear, when we are at a distance and we see when we are near that Babhru is the foremost of men and Devavriddha is equal to the celestials: sixty six persons who were the disciples of one and six thousand and eight who were disciples of the other obtained immortality". Mahabhoja was a virtuous king his descendants were the Bhojas, the kings of Mirttikāvati-thence denominated Mirttikāvāttas. Vrishni had two sons Suimitra and Yudhajit: from the former Anamitra and Sini were born. The son of Anamnitra was Nighna who had two sons Prasena and Satrajit. The god Aditya or the sun was the friend of the latter.Once on a time arriving at the banks of the ocean, Satrajit began to hymn the praises of the sun, with his mind solely devoted to him, upon which the deity appeared and stood before him. Seeing him in an indistinct shape he said to to the Sun—"I see thee in this sky as a globe of fire—I behold thee just now in the same shape and do not perceive any distinction as a matter of favor". Being thus addressed the divine sun took the jewell called Syamantaka from off his neck and placed it at a distance and Satrajit saw him of a dwarfish form, with a body like burnished copper and with slightly reddish eyes. While he bowed unto him the divine Sun said to Satrajit—"I wish to confer upon thee a boon; do thou pray for it". He then wanted that jewel. The sun gave it to him and then resumed his place in the sky. Satrajit placed that precious gem round his neck and lighting up all the quarters with his radiance like the sun entered the city of Dwārakā. Beholding him approach the inhabitant of Dwārakā went to that excellent Purusha, without beginning, who, to carry the burden of the world, assumed a mortal form, and said—"O lord, forsooth, the divine sun is coming to visit you". But Krishna smiled and said, "It is not the sun but Satrajit. He is coming here with the Syamantaka gem conferred upon him by the sun. You all see him with a fearless heart". Hearing this the inhabitants of Dwārakā repaired to their respective habitations. Satrajit too having gone to his house placed that jewel which gave daily eight loads of gold and through its uncommon power removed all fear of portents, wild beasts, fire, robbers, and famine. Krishna thought that the gem was worthy of the king Ugrasena and desired to take it but did not do so lest it might some disturbance in the family. Understanding that Krishna would ask of him the jewel Satrajit transferred it to his brother Prasena. It was the peculiar virtue of that gem, that if worn with all purity it would yield gold and prosperity of the kingdom but if worn by a man of bad character it would bring on his death. Prasena having taken the jewel and placed it round his neck mounted his horse and went to the forest to hunt. While thus hunting he was killed by a lion. The lion taking the jewel in his mouth was about to go when was seen and killed by Jamvabat the king of the bears, who taking the jewel went to his cave and gave it to his son Sukumara to play with.When sometime had passed and Prasena did not come, the Yādavas began to whisper, one to another, "This must be Krishna's doing; being willing to get the jewel and not obtaining it he has committed the murder to get this into his possession".When these calamities reached the ears of Krishna he gathered some members of the Yadu family and in their company followed the course of Prasena by the impressions of his horse's hoofs. And having found it by this way that he and his horse had been destroyed by the lion he was acquitted by all people of any share in the death. Desirous of getting back the jewel, he thence followed the foot-marks of the lion and at no great distance came to the place where the lion had been killed by the bear. Pursuing the foot-prints of the latter he arrived at the foot of a mountain where having kept the Yādavas he pursued the course. And following the impressions of the feet he found out a cavern and before he entered it he heard the nurse of Sukumāra saying to him "The lion killed Prasena; the lion has been killed by Jamvabat: weep not Sukumāra the Syamantaka is your own". Having thus ascertained the truth Krishna entered into the cavern and espied the jewel in the hands of the nurse who was giving it as a plaything to Sukumāra. The nurse in no time found out his approach and seeing his eyes eagerly fixed upon the jewel called aloud for help. Hearing her cries, Jamvabat, worked up with anger, came to that place and an encounter took place between him and the Achyuta which continued for twenty, one days. The Yādavas who followed Krishna waited there for seven or eight days expecting his return but as the slayer of Madhu did not come they arrived at the conclusion that he must have been destroyed in the cave. "It could not have taken so many days" they thought "to defeat a foe". They therefore went away, and came back to Dwārakā and announced that Krishna had been killed.His relatives too performed ceremonies necessary for the occasion. Food and water offered reverentially to worthy persons tended to support his life and invigorate his strength in the conflict in which he was engaged. While his enemy being exhausted by daily combat with a powerful enemy, bruised in every limb by heavy blows and enfeebled by want of food became unable to resist him. Being thus defeated by his powerful enemy Jamvabat prostrated himself before him and said "O mighty being, thou art, for sooth invincible, by the spirits of heaven, earth or hell, thou canst not be defeated by man and powerless creatures in a human shape—what to speak of such as we are—who are of brute origin. Methinks thou art a portion of my lord Nārāyana the protector of the universe". Being thus addressed by the lord of bears Krishna explained to him fully that he had incarnated himself to take upon himself the burden of the earth. And delightedly touching him with his palms he relieved him of the pain which he had suffered from the fight. Jamvabat again laid himself low before Krishna and presented to him his daughter Jamvabati as a suitable offering to a guest. He also handed over to him the Syamantaka jewel. Although it was not becoming to accept a present from such an individual still he took the gem with a view to clear his reputation. He then came back with his bride Jamvabati to Dwārakā.When the inhabitants of Dwārakā saw Krishna come back alive they were filled with joy so that even those who were greatly stricken in years were filled with youthful strength; and all the members of the Yadu family, men and women, gathered round Anakadundubhi, the father of the hero and congratulated him. Krishna described to the assembled Yādavas all that had taken place exactly and giving back the Syamantaka jewel to Satrajit was cleared off the charge of murder. He then conducted Jamvabati to the inner apartments.When Satrajit thought that he had been the instrumental of the false charge against Krishna he was terrified and to satisfy him he gave in marriage with him his daughter Satyabhāmā. She had ere been sought in marriage by many illustrious members of the Yadu family as Akrura, Kritaverman, and Satadhanwan, who were greatly worked up with anger on account of her being married to another, and formed a common cause of enmity against Satrajit. The most leading man amongst them with Akrura and Kritavarman said to Satadhanwan—"By given her daughter to Krishna this caitiff Satrajit had insulted you and us grossly who wanted her: why do you not kill him and take the jewel? Should Achyuta on that account enter into conflict with you we will take your part". Having secured this promise Satadhanwan undertook to destroy Satrajit.When the intelligence reached Krishna that the Pandavas lad been burned in the house of wax, he, who was acquainted with the real truth, immediately started for Baranāvata to allay the enmity of Duryodhana and perform the necessary duties of his relationship. Taking advantage of his absence Satadhanwan killed Satrajit while asleep and secured the jewel for himself. When Satyabhāmā came to know this, she, highly angered on account of her father's murder, at once ascended the chariot, went to Bāranāvat and told her husband how Satrajit had been killed by Satadhanwan in anger on account of her being married to another, and how the jewel had been taken away by him. And she requested him to take immediate steps to avenge such a heinous crime.Being thus informed Krishna, though pleased at heart, said to Satyabhāmā, assuming an indignant look—"This is an insult to me! I shall never brook it. One cannot destroy the birds that have built their nests on a tree without assailing it. Remove excessive grief therefore; you need not lament to excite my wrath". Immediately coming back to Dwārakā Krishna took Baladeva apart and said to him. "A lion slew Prasena while hunting in the forests; and now Satrajit has been killed by Satadhanwan. As both these are gone, the jewel which belonged to them, is now our common right. Up then, ascend your car and destroy Satadhanwan".Being thus excited by his brother, Balarāma engaged in the work; but Satadhanwan being aware of their hostile intention went to Kritavarman and prayed for his help. Kritavarman did not agree saying that he was not able to fight with both Krishna and Baladeva. Being disappointed he again solicited Akrura for help who said—"You must go to some body else for help. How should I be able to defend you? Even none, amongst the celestials whose glories are chanted throughout the universe, is capable of fighting with the holder of the discus, trodden by whose foot the three worlds tremble, whose hand makes the wives of the Asuras widows, whose weapons,—no army, however powerful can resist;—no one is able to fight with the wielder of ploughshare, who by his very looks, nullifies the prowess of his enemies, whose eyes roll with the joys of wine, and whose huge ploughshare manifests his prowess by destroying the most powerful enemies". Whereto Satadhanwan replied—"While such is the case and you are unable assist me, you may at least help me by keeping this jewel in your possession". "I can keep it" Akrura said "if you promise that even in the last extremity you won't give out that the jewel is in my possession". Satadhanwan agreed to this and Akrura took the jewel. And mounting a fleet mare that could run a hundred leagues a day Satadhanwan fled from Dwārakā.When this intelligence reached Krishna, he made ready his four horses Sarvya, Sugriva, Meghapushpa, and Balahakai, set them to his car and accompanied by Balarāma, started in his pursuit. The mare went on speedily and finished her hundred leagues but when she reached the country of Mithilā, her strength was exhausted and she dropped down and died. Having got down, Satadhanwan continued his flight on foot. When the pursuers came to the place where the mare had died Krishna said to Balarāma—"Do you remain in the car; I shall follow the villain on foot and kill him; the ground here is bad; and the horses will not be able to carry the car across it". Accordingly Balarāma remained in the car and Krishna followed Satadhanwan on foot. When he had pursued him for two Kos he discharged his discus and although Satadhanwan was at a considerable distance the weapon dissevered his head. He then searched his person and clothes very attentively but did not find the jewel. Then coming back he said to Balarāma—"I have for nothing destroyed Satadhanwan—for I have not found on his person the precious gem—the quintessence of all worlds". When Balarāma heard this, he was excited with anger and said to Vāsudeva—"Shame upon you—so greedy of wealth. I don't acknowledge you as my brother. Here is my path. Go wherever you like, I have done with Dwārakā, with you with all our house. It is useless for you to try to deceive me with these perjuries". Having remonstrated with his brother thus, who in vain tried to please him. Balarāma went to the city of Videha, where Janaka received him hospitably and there he remained. Vāsudeva came back to Dwārakā. While Balarāma stayed in the house of Janaka, Duryodhana, the son of Dhritarastra learnt from him the art of fighting with the mace.In this way three years passed away. Babru, Ugrasena and other Yādavas then repaired to the city of Videha and convinced Balarāma that Krishna had stolen the jewel. They then brought him to Dwārakā.Akrura too, to utilise the gold produced by the jewel, continually engaged in the celebration of sacrifices. Considering that the murderer of a Kshatriya or Vaiçya engaged in religious duties, is the slayer of Brahmin, Akrura spent sixty-two years being protected by the armour of devotion. And by virtue of that gem there was no death, nor pestilence in the whole country. At the end of that period, Satrughna, the great grandson of Satwata was killed by Bhojas. As they were connected with Akrura he accompanied them in their flight from Dwārakā. From the time of his departure various calamities, portents, snakes, dearth, plague and the like began to take place. Thereupon the illustrious Krishna called together Baladeva, Ugrasena and other Yādavas and consulted with them to ascertain why so many prodigies should have taken place at the same time. On this Andhaka one of the elders of the Yadu family spoke—"Wherever Swaphalka the father of Akrura lived, there famine, plague, dearth and other visitations were unknown. Once when there was want of rain in the kingdom of Kasirāja, Swaphalka was brought there and immediately there fell rain from the heavens. It also happened that the queen of Kasirāja conceived and was big with a child but when the time of delivery came the child did not come out of the womb. Twelve years went away and still the girl was unborn. Then the Kasirāja spoke to the child, saying 'Daughter, why is your birth thus delayed? Come out, I wish to see you; why do you inflict this continued suffering upon your mother?' Thus addressed the infant said—'O father, if you will present a cow daily to the Brahmans I shall be born at the end of three years'. Accordingly the king presented a cow every day to the Brahmans and at the end of three years the girl came out of the womb. Her father called her Gāndini and he afterwards gave her to Swaphalka when he came to his palace to help him. Gāndini as long as she lived, gave a cow to the Brahmans every day. Akrura was her son by Swaphalka. And he is thus born from a combination of extraordinary excellence. When such a person is absent from us it is likely that famine, pestilence and prodigies should take place. Let him then be requested to come back; the weak points of men of excellence should not be too severely criticized".In accordance with the advice of Andhaka the elder, the Yādavas sent a mission headed by Kesava, Ugrasena and Balabhadra, to assure Akrura that no notice of his fault would be taken. And having convinced him that he would expect no danger they brought him back to Dwārakā. As soon as he arrived on account of the virtue of the jewel, the plague, dearth, famine and every other calamity and portent disappeared. Seeing this Krishna thought that the birth of Akrura from Gāndini and Swaphalka could not bring about such an effect and he must have some other more powerful virtue to arrest pestilence and famine. "Certainly" thought he within himself "the great Syamantaka jewel must be in his keeping, for these, as I have heard, are the properties of the jewel. Akrura too has been performing many sacrifices; his own means are not sufficient for the purpose, undoubtedly he has got the jewel in his possession". Having arrived at this conclusion, he called together all Yādavas at his house under the plea of celebrating some feast. After they had all taken their seals and the object of the meeting had been explained to them and the business finished Krishna began to converse with Akrura and laughing and joking, said to him—"Kinsman, you are a prince in your liberality and we know very well that the valuable gem which was stolen by Sudhanwan was given to you and is now in your possession, to the great benefit of this kingdom. So let it remain; we all derive advantage from its virtues. But Bhalabhadra suspects that I have it and therefore, out of kindness to me shew it to the assembly". When Akrura, who had the jewel in his possession, was thus taxed he hesitated what he should do. He thought—"If I deny that I have the jewel, they will search my person and find the gem hidden amongst my clothes. I cannot submit myself to a search". Thinking thus Akrura said to Nārāyana, the cause of the universe "It is true, Syamantaka jewel was given to my care by Satadhanwan when he left this place. I expected every day that you should ask me for it and with great inconvenience to myself I have retained it. The care of this has put me to so much anxiety that I have not been able to enjoy any pleasure or a moment's rest. Being afraid lest you might think, that I am unfit to keep this jewel which is the source of welfare to the kingdom I did not mention to you that it is in my possession. Now take it yourself and give its charge to any body you like". Having said this Akrura got out of his clothes a small gold box and took from it the jewel. When it was shown to the assembled Yādavas the room in which they sat was illuminated with its radiance, "This" said Akrura "is the Syamantaka jewel which was left to my care by Satadhanwan. Let him to whom it belongs now take it".When the Yādavas saw the jewel they were filled with surprise and loudly expressed their joy. Balabhadra immediately claimed the jewel as his property jointly with Achyuta as was formerly settled; whereas Satyabhāmā wanted it as her rightful property for it belonged to her father. Between these two Krishna considered himself as an ox between the two wheels of a cart, and thus said to Akrura in presence of the Yadavas—"This jewel has been shown to you all in order to clear my reputation; it is the joint-property of Balabhadra and myself and is the paternal property of Satyabhāmā. But as a source of advantage to the kingdom this jewel must be consigned to the charge of one who leads a life of perpetual continence; if worn by an impure man it will prove the cause of his death. As I have sixteen thousand wives I am not qualified to use it. It is not probable that Satyabhāmā would agree to the conditions, satisfying which she may possess it And as regards Balabhadra, he is greatly addicted to wine and sensual pleasures. We are therefore all out of question. All the Yādavas, Balabhadra, Satyabhāmā and myself request you, most liberal Akrura, to keep this jewel in your possession, as you have done up to this time for the general behoof; for you are qualified to keep it and in your hands it has proved beneficial to the country. You must comply with your request".Thus requested Akrura took the jewel and thenceforth wore it publicly round his neck where it shone with dazzling radiance and he moved about like the sun wearing a garland of light.He, who remembers the vindication of Krishna's character from false charges, shall never be subject to any false charge in the least degree and living in the full display of senses, shall be freed from every sin.
SECTION XIII.Parāçara said—The sons of Satwata were Bhajina Bhajamāna, Divya, Andhaka, Devavriddha, Mahābhoja and Vrishni. Bhajamāna had three sons, Nimi, Krikana, and Vrishni by one wife and as many by another, Satajit, Sahasrajit and Ayutajit. The son of Devavridha was Babhru of whom this verse is recited—"We hear, when we are at a distance and we see when we are near that Babhru is the foremost of men and Devavriddha is equal to the celestials: sixty six persons who were the disciples of one and six thousand and eight who were disciples of the other obtained immortality". Mahabhoja was a virtuous king his descendants were the Bhojas, the kings of Mirttikāvati-thence denominated Mirttikāvāttas. Vrishni had two sons Suimitra and Yudhajit: from the former Anamitra and Sini were born. The son of Anamnitra was Nighna who had two sons Prasena and Satrajit. The god Aditya or the sun was the friend of the latter.Once on a time arriving at the banks of the ocean, Satrajit began to hymn the praises of the sun, with his mind solely devoted to him, upon which the deity appeared and stood before him. Seeing him in an indistinct shape he said to to the Sun—"I see thee in this sky as a globe of fire—I behold thee just now in the same shape and do not perceive any distinction as a matter of favor". Being thus addressed the divine sun took the jewell called Syamantaka from off his neck and placed it at a distance and Satrajit saw him of a dwarfish form, with a body like burnished copper and with slightly reddish eyes. While he bowed unto him the divine Sun said to Satrajit—"I wish to confer upon thee a boon; do thou pray for it". He then wanted that jewel. The sun gave it to him and then resumed his place in the sky. Satrajit placed that precious gem round his neck and lighting up all the quarters with his radiance like the sun entered the city of Dwārakā. Beholding him approach the inhabitant of Dwārakā went to that excellent Purusha, without beginning, who, to carry the burden of the world, assumed a mortal form, and said—"O lord, forsooth, the divine sun is coming to visit you". But Krishna smiled and said, "It is not the sun but Satrajit. He is coming here with the Syamantaka gem conferred upon him by the sun. You all see him with a fearless heart". Hearing this the inhabitants of Dwārakā repaired to their respective habitations. Satrajit too having gone to his house placed that jewel which gave daily eight loads of gold and through its uncommon power removed all fear of portents, wild beasts, fire, robbers, and famine. Krishna thought that the gem was worthy of the king Ugrasena and desired to take it but did not do so lest it might some disturbance in the family. Understanding that Krishna would ask of him the jewel Satrajit transferred it to his brother Prasena. It was the peculiar virtue of that gem, that if worn with all purity it would yield gold and prosperity of the kingdom but if worn by a man of bad character it would bring on his death. Prasena having taken the jewel and placed it round his neck mounted his horse and went to the forest to hunt. While thus hunting he was killed by a lion. The lion taking the jewel in his mouth was about to go when was seen and killed by Jamvabat the king of the bears, who taking the jewel went to his cave and gave it to his son Sukumara to play with.When sometime had passed and Prasena did not come, the Yādavas began to whisper, one to another, "This must be Krishna's doing; being willing to get the jewel and not obtaining it he has committed the murder to get this into his possession".When these calamities reached the ears of Krishna he gathered some members of the Yadu family and in their company followed the course of Prasena by the impressions of his horse's hoofs. And having found it by this way that he and his horse had been destroyed by the lion he was acquitted by all people of any share in the death. Desirous of getting back the jewel, he thence followed the foot-marks of the lion and at no great distance came to the place where the lion had been killed by the bear. Pursuing the foot-prints of the latter he arrived at the foot of a mountain where having kept the Yādavas he pursued the course. And following the impressions of the feet he found out a cavern and before he entered it he heard the nurse of Sukumāra saying to him "The lion killed Prasena; the lion has been killed by Jamvabat: weep not Sukumāra the Syamantaka is your own". Having thus ascertained the truth Krishna entered into the cavern and espied the jewel in the hands of the nurse who was giving it as a plaything to Sukumāra. The nurse in no time found out his approach and seeing his eyes eagerly fixed upon the jewel called aloud for help. Hearing her cries, Jamvabat, worked up with anger, came to that place and an encounter took place between him and the Achyuta which continued for twenty, one days. The Yādavas who followed Krishna waited there for seven or eight days expecting his return but as the slayer of Madhu did not come they arrived at the conclusion that he must have been destroyed in the cave. "It could not have taken so many days" they thought "to defeat a foe". They therefore went away, and came back to Dwārakā and announced that Krishna had been killed.His relatives too performed ceremonies necessary for the occasion. Food and water offered reverentially to worthy persons tended to support his life and invigorate his strength in the conflict in which he was engaged. While his enemy being exhausted by daily combat with a powerful enemy, bruised in every limb by heavy blows and enfeebled by want of food became unable to resist him. Being thus defeated by his powerful enemy Jamvabat prostrated himself before him and said "O mighty being, thou art, for sooth invincible, by the spirits of heaven, earth or hell, thou canst not be defeated by man and powerless creatures in a human shape—what to speak of such as we are—who are of brute origin. Methinks thou art a portion of my lord Nārāyana the protector of the universe". Being thus addressed by the lord of bears Krishna explained to him fully that he had incarnated himself to take upon himself the burden of the earth. And delightedly touching him with his palms he relieved him of the pain which he had suffered from the fight. Jamvabat again laid himself low before Krishna and presented to him his daughter Jamvabati as a suitable offering to a guest. He also handed over to him the Syamantaka jewel. Although it was not becoming to accept a present from such an individual still he took the gem with a view to clear his reputation. He then came back with his bride Jamvabati to Dwārakā.When the inhabitants of Dwārakā saw Krishna come back alive they were filled with joy so that even those who were greatly stricken in years were filled with youthful strength; and all the members of the Yadu family, men and women, gathered round Anakadundubhi, the father of the hero and congratulated him. Krishna described to the assembled Yādavas all that had taken place exactly and giving back the Syamantaka jewel to Satrajit was cleared off the charge of murder. He then conducted Jamvabati to the inner apartments.When Satrajit thought that he had been the instrumental of the false charge against Krishna he was terrified and to satisfy him he gave in marriage with him his daughter Satyabhāmā. She had ere been sought in marriage by many illustrious members of the Yadu family as Akrura, Kritaverman, and Satadhanwan, who were greatly worked up with anger on account of her being married to another, and formed a common cause of enmity against Satrajit. The most leading man amongst them with Akrura and Kritavarman said to Satadhanwan—"By given her daughter to Krishna this caitiff Satrajit had insulted you and us grossly who wanted her: why do you not kill him and take the jewel? Should Achyuta on that account enter into conflict with you we will take your part". Having secured this promise Satadhanwan undertook to destroy Satrajit.When the intelligence reached Krishna that the Pandavas lad been burned in the house of wax, he, who was acquainted with the real truth, immediately started for Baranāvata to allay the enmity of Duryodhana and perform the necessary duties of his relationship. Taking advantage of his absence Satadhanwan killed Satrajit while asleep and secured the jewel for himself. When Satyabhāmā came to know this, she, highly angered on account of her father's murder, at once ascended the chariot, went to Bāranāvat and told her husband how Satrajit had been killed by Satadhanwan in anger on account of her being married to another, and how the jewel had been taken away by him. And she requested him to take immediate steps to avenge such a heinous crime.Being thus informed Krishna, though pleased at heart, said to Satyabhāmā, assuming an indignant look—"This is an insult to me! I shall never brook it. One cannot destroy the birds that have built their nests on a tree without assailing it. Remove excessive grief therefore; you need not lament to excite my wrath". Immediately coming back to Dwārakā Krishna took Baladeva apart and said to him. "A lion slew Prasena while hunting in the forests; and now Satrajit has been killed by Satadhanwan. As both these are gone, the jewel which belonged to them, is now our common right. Up then, ascend your car and destroy Satadhanwan".Being thus excited by his brother, Balarāma engaged in the work; but Satadhanwan being aware of their hostile intention went to Kritavarman and prayed for his help. Kritavarman did not agree saying that he was not able to fight with both Krishna and Baladeva. Being disappointed he again solicited Akrura for help who said—"You must go to some body else for help. How should I be able to defend you? Even none, amongst the celestials whose glories are chanted throughout the universe, is capable of fighting with the holder of the discus, trodden by whose foot the three worlds tremble, whose hand makes the wives of the Asuras widows, whose weapons,—no army, however powerful can resist;—no one is able to fight with the wielder of ploughshare, who by his very looks, nullifies the prowess of his enemies, whose eyes roll with the joys of wine, and whose huge ploughshare manifests his prowess by destroying the most powerful enemies". Whereto Satadhanwan replied—"While such is the case and you are unable assist me, you may at least help me by keeping this jewel in your possession". "I can keep it" Akrura said "if you promise that even in the last extremity you won't give out that the jewel is in my possession". Satadhanwan agreed to this and Akrura took the jewel. And mounting a fleet mare that could run a hundred leagues a day Satadhanwan fled from Dwārakā.When this intelligence reached Krishna, he made ready his four horses Sarvya, Sugriva, Meghapushpa, and Balahakai, set them to his car and accompanied by Balarāma, started in his pursuit. The mare went on speedily and finished her hundred leagues but when she reached the country of Mithilā, her strength was exhausted and she dropped down and died. Having got down, Satadhanwan continued his flight on foot. When the pursuers came to the place where the mare had died Krishna said to Balarāma—"Do you remain in the car; I shall follow the villain on foot and kill him; the ground here is bad; and the horses will not be able to carry the car across it". Accordingly Balarāma remained in the car and Krishna followed Satadhanwan on foot. When he had pursued him for two Kos he discharged his discus and although Satadhanwan was at a considerable distance the weapon dissevered his head. He then searched his person and clothes very attentively but did not find the jewel. Then coming back he said to Balarāma—"I have for nothing destroyed Satadhanwan—for I have not found on his person the precious gem—the quintessence of all worlds". When Balarāma heard this, he was excited with anger and said to Vāsudeva—"Shame upon you—so greedy of wealth. I don't acknowledge you as my brother. Here is my path. Go wherever you like, I have done with Dwārakā, with you with all our house. It is useless for you to try to deceive me with these perjuries". Having remonstrated with his brother thus, who in vain tried to please him. Balarāma went to the city of Videha, where Janaka received him hospitably and there he remained. Vāsudeva came back to Dwārakā. While Balarāma stayed in the house of Janaka, Duryodhana, the son of Dhritarastra learnt from him the art of fighting with the mace.In this way three years passed away. Babru, Ugrasena and other Yādavas then repaired to the city of Videha and convinced Balarāma that Krishna had stolen the jewel. They then brought him to Dwārakā.Akrura too, to utilise the gold produced by the jewel, continually engaged in the celebration of sacrifices. Considering that the murderer of a Kshatriya or Vaiçya engaged in religious duties, is the slayer of Brahmin, Akrura spent sixty-two years being protected by the armour of devotion. And by virtue of that gem there was no death, nor pestilence in the whole country. At the end of that period, Satrughna, the great grandson of Satwata was killed by Bhojas. As they were connected with Akrura he accompanied them in their flight from Dwārakā. From the time of his departure various calamities, portents, snakes, dearth, plague and the like began to take place. Thereupon the illustrious Krishna called together Baladeva, Ugrasena and other Yādavas and consulted with them to ascertain why so many prodigies should have taken place at the same time. On this Andhaka one of the elders of the Yadu family spoke—"Wherever Swaphalka the father of Akrura lived, there famine, plague, dearth and other visitations were unknown. Once when there was want of rain in the kingdom of Kasirāja, Swaphalka was brought there and immediately there fell rain from the heavens. It also happened that the queen of Kasirāja conceived and was big with a child but when the time of delivery came the child did not come out of the womb. Twelve years went away and still the girl was unborn. Then the Kasirāja spoke to the child, saying 'Daughter, why is your birth thus delayed? Come out, I wish to see you; why do you inflict this continued suffering upon your mother?' Thus addressed the infant said—'O father, if you will present a cow daily to the Brahmans I shall be born at the end of three years'. Accordingly the king presented a cow every day to the Brahmans and at the end of three years the girl came out of the womb. Her father called her Gāndini and he afterwards gave her to Swaphalka when he came to his palace to help him. Gāndini as long as she lived, gave a cow to the Brahmans every day. Akrura was her son by Swaphalka. And he is thus born from a combination of extraordinary excellence. When such a person is absent from us it is likely that famine, pestilence and prodigies should take place. Let him then be requested to come back; the weak points of men of excellence should not be too severely criticized".In accordance with the advice of Andhaka the elder, the Yādavas sent a mission headed by Kesava, Ugrasena and Balabhadra, to assure Akrura that no notice of his fault would be taken. And having convinced him that he would expect no danger they brought him back to Dwārakā. As soon as he arrived on account of the virtue of the jewel, the plague, dearth, famine and every other calamity and portent disappeared. Seeing this Krishna thought that the birth of Akrura from Gāndini and Swaphalka could not bring about such an effect and he must have some other more powerful virtue to arrest pestilence and famine. "Certainly" thought he within himself "the great Syamantaka jewel must be in his keeping, for these, as I have heard, are the properties of the jewel. Akrura too has been performing many sacrifices; his own means are not sufficient for the purpose, undoubtedly he has got the jewel in his possession". Having arrived at this conclusion, he called together all Yādavas at his house under the plea of celebrating some feast. After they had all taken their seals and the object of the meeting had been explained to them and the business finished Krishna began to converse with Akrura and laughing and joking, said to him—"Kinsman, you are a prince in your liberality and we know very well that the valuable gem which was stolen by Sudhanwan was given to you and is now in your possession, to the great benefit of this kingdom. So let it remain; we all derive advantage from its virtues. But Bhalabhadra suspects that I have it and therefore, out of kindness to me shew it to the assembly". When Akrura, who had the jewel in his possession, was thus taxed he hesitated what he should do. He thought—"If I deny that I have the jewel, they will search my person and find the gem hidden amongst my clothes. I cannot submit myself to a search". Thinking thus Akrura said to Nārāyana, the cause of the universe "It is true, Syamantaka jewel was given to my care by Satadhanwan when he left this place. I expected every day that you should ask me for it and with great inconvenience to myself I have retained it. The care of this has put me to so much anxiety that I have not been able to enjoy any pleasure or a moment's rest. Being afraid lest you might think, that I am unfit to keep this jewel which is the source of welfare to the kingdom I did not mention to you that it is in my possession. Now take it yourself and give its charge to any body you like". Having said this Akrura got out of his clothes a small gold box and took from it the jewel. When it was shown to the assembled Yādavas the room in which they sat was illuminated with its radiance, "This" said Akrura "is the Syamantaka jewel which was left to my care by Satadhanwan. Let him to whom it belongs now take it".When the Yādavas saw the jewel they were filled with surprise and loudly expressed their joy. Balabhadra immediately claimed the jewel as his property jointly with Achyuta as was formerly settled; whereas Satyabhāmā wanted it as her rightful property for it belonged to her father. Between these two Krishna considered himself as an ox between the two wheels of a cart, and thus said to Akrura in presence of the Yadavas—"This jewel has been shown to you all in order to clear my reputation; it is the joint-property of Balabhadra and myself and is the paternal property of Satyabhāmā. But as a source of advantage to the kingdom this jewel must be consigned to the charge of one who leads a life of perpetual continence; if worn by an impure man it will prove the cause of his death. As I have sixteen thousand wives I am not qualified to use it. It is not probable that Satyabhāmā would agree to the conditions, satisfying which she may possess it And as regards Balabhadra, he is greatly addicted to wine and sensual pleasures. We are therefore all out of question. All the Yādavas, Balabhadra, Satyabhāmā and myself request you, most liberal Akrura, to keep this jewel in your possession, as you have done up to this time for the general behoof; for you are qualified to keep it and in your hands it has proved beneficial to the country. You must comply with your request".Thus requested Akrura took the jewel and thenceforth wore it publicly round his neck where it shone with dazzling radiance and he moved about like the sun wearing a garland of light.He, who remembers the vindication of Krishna's character from false charges, shall never be subject to any false charge in the least degree and living in the full display of senses, shall be freed from every sin.
SECTION XIII.Parāçara said—The sons of Satwata were Bhajina Bhajamāna, Divya, Andhaka, Devavriddha, Mahābhoja and Vrishni. Bhajamāna had three sons, Nimi, Krikana, and Vrishni by one wife and as many by another, Satajit, Sahasrajit and Ayutajit. The son of Devavridha was Babhru of whom this verse is recited—"We hear, when we are at a distance and we see when we are near that Babhru is the foremost of men and Devavriddha is equal to the celestials: sixty six persons who were the disciples of one and six thousand and eight who were disciples of the other obtained immortality". Mahabhoja was a virtuous king his descendants were the Bhojas, the kings of Mirttikāvati-thence denominated Mirttikāvāttas. Vrishni had two sons Suimitra and Yudhajit: from the former Anamitra and Sini were born. The son of Anamnitra was Nighna who had two sons Prasena and Satrajit. The god Aditya or the sun was the friend of the latter.Once on a time arriving at the banks of the ocean, Satrajit began to hymn the praises of the sun, with his mind solely devoted to him, upon which the deity appeared and stood before him. Seeing him in an indistinct shape he said to to the Sun—"I see thee in this sky as a globe of fire—I behold thee just now in the same shape and do not perceive any distinction as a matter of favor". Being thus addressed the divine sun took the jewell called Syamantaka from off his neck and placed it at a distance and Satrajit saw him of a dwarfish form, with a body like burnished copper and with slightly reddish eyes. While he bowed unto him the divine Sun said to Satrajit—"I wish to confer upon thee a boon; do thou pray for it". He then wanted that jewel. The sun gave it to him and then resumed his place in the sky. Satrajit placed that precious gem round his neck and lighting up all the quarters with his radiance like the sun entered the city of Dwārakā. Beholding him approach the inhabitant of Dwārakā went to that excellent Purusha, without beginning, who, to carry the burden of the world, assumed a mortal form, and said—"O lord, forsooth, the divine sun is coming to visit you". But Krishna smiled and said, "It is not the sun but Satrajit. He is coming here with the Syamantaka gem conferred upon him by the sun. You all see him with a fearless heart". Hearing this the inhabitants of Dwārakā repaired to their respective habitations. Satrajit too having gone to his house placed that jewel which gave daily eight loads of gold and through its uncommon power removed all fear of portents, wild beasts, fire, robbers, and famine. Krishna thought that the gem was worthy of the king Ugrasena and desired to take it but did not do so lest it might some disturbance in the family. Understanding that Krishna would ask of him the jewel Satrajit transferred it to his brother Prasena. It was the peculiar virtue of that gem, that if worn with all purity it would yield gold and prosperity of the kingdom but if worn by a man of bad character it would bring on his death. Prasena having taken the jewel and placed it round his neck mounted his horse and went to the forest to hunt. While thus hunting he was killed by a lion. The lion taking the jewel in his mouth was about to go when was seen and killed by Jamvabat the king of the bears, who taking the jewel went to his cave and gave it to his son Sukumara to play with.When sometime had passed and Prasena did not come, the Yādavas began to whisper, one to another, "This must be Krishna's doing; being willing to get the jewel and not obtaining it he has committed the murder to get this into his possession".When these calamities reached the ears of Krishna he gathered some members of the Yadu family and in their company followed the course of Prasena by the impressions of his horse's hoofs. And having found it by this way that he and his horse had been destroyed by the lion he was acquitted by all people of any share in the death. Desirous of getting back the jewel, he thence followed the foot-marks of the lion and at no great distance came to the place where the lion had been killed by the bear. Pursuing the foot-prints of the latter he arrived at the foot of a mountain where having kept the Yādavas he pursued the course. And following the impressions of the feet he found out a cavern and before he entered it he heard the nurse of Sukumāra saying to him "The lion killed Prasena; the lion has been killed by Jamvabat: weep not Sukumāra the Syamantaka is your own". Having thus ascertained the truth Krishna entered into the cavern and espied the jewel in the hands of the nurse who was giving it as a plaything to Sukumāra. The nurse in no time found out his approach and seeing his eyes eagerly fixed upon the jewel called aloud for help. Hearing her cries, Jamvabat, worked up with anger, came to that place and an encounter took place between him and the Achyuta which continued for twenty, one days. The Yādavas who followed Krishna waited there for seven or eight days expecting his return but as the slayer of Madhu did not come they arrived at the conclusion that he must have been destroyed in the cave. "It could not have taken so many days" they thought "to defeat a foe". They therefore went away, and came back to Dwārakā and announced that Krishna had been killed.His relatives too performed ceremonies necessary for the occasion. Food and water offered reverentially to worthy persons tended to support his life and invigorate his strength in the conflict in which he was engaged. While his enemy being exhausted by daily combat with a powerful enemy, bruised in every limb by heavy blows and enfeebled by want of food became unable to resist him. Being thus defeated by his powerful enemy Jamvabat prostrated himself before him and said "O mighty being, thou art, for sooth invincible, by the spirits of heaven, earth or hell, thou canst not be defeated by man and powerless creatures in a human shape—what to speak of such as we are—who are of brute origin. Methinks thou art a portion of my lord Nārāyana the protector of the universe". Being thus addressed by the lord of bears Krishna explained to him fully that he had incarnated himself to take upon himself the burden of the earth. And delightedly touching him with his palms he relieved him of the pain which he had suffered from the fight. Jamvabat again laid himself low before Krishna and presented to him his daughter Jamvabati as a suitable offering to a guest. He also handed over to him the Syamantaka jewel. Although it was not becoming to accept a present from such an individual still he took the gem with a view to clear his reputation. He then came back with his bride Jamvabati to Dwārakā.When the inhabitants of Dwārakā saw Krishna come back alive they were filled with joy so that even those who were greatly stricken in years were filled with youthful strength; and all the members of the Yadu family, men and women, gathered round Anakadundubhi, the father of the hero and congratulated him. Krishna described to the assembled Yādavas all that had taken place exactly and giving back the Syamantaka jewel to Satrajit was cleared off the charge of murder. He then conducted Jamvabati to the inner apartments.When Satrajit thought that he had been the instrumental of the false charge against Krishna he was terrified and to satisfy him he gave in marriage with him his daughter Satyabhāmā. She had ere been sought in marriage by many illustrious members of the Yadu family as Akrura, Kritaverman, and Satadhanwan, who were greatly worked up with anger on account of her being married to another, and formed a common cause of enmity against Satrajit. The most leading man amongst them with Akrura and Kritavarman said to Satadhanwan—"By given her daughter to Krishna this caitiff Satrajit had insulted you and us grossly who wanted her: why do you not kill him and take the jewel? Should Achyuta on that account enter into conflict with you we will take your part". Having secured this promise Satadhanwan undertook to destroy Satrajit.When the intelligence reached Krishna that the Pandavas lad been burned in the house of wax, he, who was acquainted with the real truth, immediately started for Baranāvata to allay the enmity of Duryodhana and perform the necessary duties of his relationship. Taking advantage of his absence Satadhanwan killed Satrajit while asleep and secured the jewel for himself. When Satyabhāmā came to know this, she, highly angered on account of her father's murder, at once ascended the chariot, went to Bāranāvat and told her husband how Satrajit had been killed by Satadhanwan in anger on account of her being married to another, and how the jewel had been taken away by him. And she requested him to take immediate steps to avenge such a heinous crime.Being thus informed Krishna, though pleased at heart, said to Satyabhāmā, assuming an indignant look—"This is an insult to me! I shall never brook it. One cannot destroy the birds that have built their nests on a tree without assailing it. Remove excessive grief therefore; you need not lament to excite my wrath". Immediately coming back to Dwārakā Krishna took Baladeva apart and said to him. "A lion slew Prasena while hunting in the forests; and now Satrajit has been killed by Satadhanwan. As both these are gone, the jewel which belonged to them, is now our common right. Up then, ascend your car and destroy Satadhanwan".Being thus excited by his brother, Balarāma engaged in the work; but Satadhanwan being aware of their hostile intention went to Kritavarman and prayed for his help. Kritavarman did not agree saying that he was not able to fight with both Krishna and Baladeva. Being disappointed he again solicited Akrura for help who said—"You must go to some body else for help. How should I be able to defend you? Even none, amongst the celestials whose glories are chanted throughout the universe, is capable of fighting with the holder of the discus, trodden by whose foot the three worlds tremble, whose hand makes the wives of the Asuras widows, whose weapons,—no army, however powerful can resist;—no one is able to fight with the wielder of ploughshare, who by his very looks, nullifies the prowess of his enemies, whose eyes roll with the joys of wine, and whose huge ploughshare manifests his prowess by destroying the most powerful enemies". Whereto Satadhanwan replied—"While such is the case and you are unable assist me, you may at least help me by keeping this jewel in your possession". "I can keep it" Akrura said "if you promise that even in the last extremity you won't give out that the jewel is in my possession". Satadhanwan agreed to this and Akrura took the jewel. And mounting a fleet mare that could run a hundred leagues a day Satadhanwan fled from Dwārakā.When this intelligence reached Krishna, he made ready his four horses Sarvya, Sugriva, Meghapushpa, and Balahakai, set them to his car and accompanied by Balarāma, started in his pursuit. The mare went on speedily and finished her hundred leagues but when she reached the country of Mithilā, her strength was exhausted and she dropped down and died. Having got down, Satadhanwan continued his flight on foot. When the pursuers came to the place where the mare had died Krishna said to Balarāma—"Do you remain in the car; I shall follow the villain on foot and kill him; the ground here is bad; and the horses will not be able to carry the car across it". Accordingly Balarāma remained in the car and Krishna followed Satadhanwan on foot. When he had pursued him for two Kos he discharged his discus and although Satadhanwan was at a considerable distance the weapon dissevered his head. He then searched his person and clothes very attentively but did not find the jewel. Then coming back he said to Balarāma—"I have for nothing destroyed Satadhanwan—for I have not found on his person the precious gem—the quintessence of all worlds". When Balarāma heard this, he was excited with anger and said to Vāsudeva—"Shame upon you—so greedy of wealth. I don't acknowledge you as my brother. Here is my path. Go wherever you like, I have done with Dwārakā, with you with all our house. It is useless for you to try to deceive me with these perjuries". Having remonstrated with his brother thus, who in vain tried to please him. Balarāma went to the city of Videha, where Janaka received him hospitably and there he remained. Vāsudeva came back to Dwārakā. While Balarāma stayed in the house of Janaka, Duryodhana, the son of Dhritarastra learnt from him the art of fighting with the mace.In this way three years passed away. Babru, Ugrasena and other Yādavas then repaired to the city of Videha and convinced Balarāma that Krishna had stolen the jewel. They then brought him to Dwārakā.Akrura too, to utilise the gold produced by the jewel, continually engaged in the celebration of sacrifices. Considering that the murderer of a Kshatriya or Vaiçya engaged in religious duties, is the slayer of Brahmin, Akrura spent sixty-two years being protected by the armour of devotion. And by virtue of that gem there was no death, nor pestilence in the whole country. At the end of that period, Satrughna, the great grandson of Satwata was killed by Bhojas. As they were connected with Akrura he accompanied them in their flight from Dwārakā. From the time of his departure various calamities, portents, snakes, dearth, plague and the like began to take place. Thereupon the illustrious Krishna called together Baladeva, Ugrasena and other Yādavas and consulted with them to ascertain why so many prodigies should have taken place at the same time. On this Andhaka one of the elders of the Yadu family spoke—"Wherever Swaphalka the father of Akrura lived, there famine, plague, dearth and other visitations were unknown. Once when there was want of rain in the kingdom of Kasirāja, Swaphalka was brought there and immediately there fell rain from the heavens. It also happened that the queen of Kasirāja conceived and was big with a child but when the time of delivery came the child did not come out of the womb. Twelve years went away and still the girl was unborn. Then the Kasirāja spoke to the child, saying 'Daughter, why is your birth thus delayed? Come out, I wish to see you; why do you inflict this continued suffering upon your mother?' Thus addressed the infant said—'O father, if you will present a cow daily to the Brahmans I shall be born at the end of three years'. Accordingly the king presented a cow every day to the Brahmans and at the end of three years the girl came out of the womb. Her father called her Gāndini and he afterwards gave her to Swaphalka when he came to his palace to help him. Gāndini as long as she lived, gave a cow to the Brahmans every day. Akrura was her son by Swaphalka. And he is thus born from a combination of extraordinary excellence. When such a person is absent from us it is likely that famine, pestilence and prodigies should take place. Let him then be requested to come back; the weak points of men of excellence should not be too severely criticized".In accordance with the advice of Andhaka the elder, the Yādavas sent a mission headed by Kesava, Ugrasena and Balabhadra, to assure Akrura that no notice of his fault would be taken. And having convinced him that he would expect no danger they brought him back to Dwārakā. As soon as he arrived on account of the virtue of the jewel, the plague, dearth, famine and every other calamity and portent disappeared. Seeing this Krishna thought that the birth of Akrura from Gāndini and Swaphalka could not bring about such an effect and he must have some other more powerful virtue to arrest pestilence and famine. "Certainly" thought he within himself "the great Syamantaka jewel must be in his keeping, for these, as I have heard, are the properties of the jewel. Akrura too has been performing many sacrifices; his own means are not sufficient for the purpose, undoubtedly he has got the jewel in his possession". Having arrived at this conclusion, he called together all Yādavas at his house under the plea of celebrating some feast. After they had all taken their seals and the object of the meeting had been explained to them and the business finished Krishna began to converse with Akrura and laughing and joking, said to him—"Kinsman, you are a prince in your liberality and we know very well that the valuable gem which was stolen by Sudhanwan was given to you and is now in your possession, to the great benefit of this kingdom. So let it remain; we all derive advantage from its virtues. But Bhalabhadra suspects that I have it and therefore, out of kindness to me shew it to the assembly". When Akrura, who had the jewel in his possession, was thus taxed he hesitated what he should do. He thought—"If I deny that I have the jewel, they will search my person and find the gem hidden amongst my clothes. I cannot submit myself to a search". Thinking thus Akrura said to Nārāyana, the cause of the universe "It is true, Syamantaka jewel was given to my care by Satadhanwan when he left this place. I expected every day that you should ask me for it and with great inconvenience to myself I have retained it. The care of this has put me to so much anxiety that I have not been able to enjoy any pleasure or a moment's rest. Being afraid lest you might think, that I am unfit to keep this jewel which is the source of welfare to the kingdom I did not mention to you that it is in my possession. Now take it yourself and give its charge to any body you like". Having said this Akrura got out of his clothes a small gold box and took from it the jewel. When it was shown to the assembled Yādavas the room in which they sat was illuminated with its radiance, "This" said Akrura "is the Syamantaka jewel which was left to my care by Satadhanwan. Let him to whom it belongs now take it".When the Yādavas saw the jewel they were filled with surprise and loudly expressed their joy. Balabhadra immediately claimed the jewel as his property jointly with Achyuta as was formerly settled; whereas Satyabhāmā wanted it as her rightful property for it belonged to her father. Between these two Krishna considered himself as an ox between the two wheels of a cart, and thus said to Akrura in presence of the Yadavas—"This jewel has been shown to you all in order to clear my reputation; it is the joint-property of Balabhadra and myself and is the paternal property of Satyabhāmā. But as a source of advantage to the kingdom this jewel must be consigned to the charge of one who leads a life of perpetual continence; if worn by an impure man it will prove the cause of his death. As I have sixteen thousand wives I am not qualified to use it. It is not probable that Satyabhāmā would agree to the conditions, satisfying which she may possess it And as regards Balabhadra, he is greatly addicted to wine and sensual pleasures. We are therefore all out of question. All the Yādavas, Balabhadra, Satyabhāmā and myself request you, most liberal Akrura, to keep this jewel in your possession, as you have done up to this time for the general behoof; for you are qualified to keep it and in your hands it has proved beneficial to the country. You must comply with your request".Thus requested Akrura took the jewel and thenceforth wore it publicly round his neck where it shone with dazzling radiance and he moved about like the sun wearing a garland of light.He, who remembers the vindication of Krishna's character from false charges, shall never be subject to any false charge in the least degree and living in the full display of senses, shall be freed from every sin.
Parāçara said—The sons of Satwata were Bhajina Bhajamāna, Divya, Andhaka, Devavriddha, Mahābhoja and Vrishni. Bhajamāna had three sons, Nimi, Krikana, and Vrishni by one wife and as many by another, Satajit, Sahasrajit and Ayutajit. The son of Devavridha was Babhru of whom this verse is recited—"We hear, when we are at a distance and we see when we are near that Babhru is the foremost of men and Devavriddha is equal to the celestials: sixty six persons who were the disciples of one and six thousand and eight who were disciples of the other obtained immortality". Mahabhoja was a virtuous king his descendants were the Bhojas, the kings of Mirttikāvati-thence denominated Mirttikāvāttas. Vrishni had two sons Suimitra and Yudhajit: from the former Anamitra and Sini were born. The son of Anamnitra was Nighna who had two sons Prasena and Satrajit. The god Aditya or the sun was the friend of the latter.
Once on a time arriving at the banks of the ocean, Satrajit began to hymn the praises of the sun, with his mind solely devoted to him, upon which the deity appeared and stood before him. Seeing him in an indistinct shape he said to to the Sun—"I see thee in this sky as a globe of fire—I behold thee just now in the same shape and do not perceive any distinction as a matter of favor". Being thus addressed the divine sun took the jewell called Syamantaka from off his neck and placed it at a distance and Satrajit saw him of a dwarfish form, with a body like burnished copper and with slightly reddish eyes. While he bowed unto him the divine Sun said to Satrajit—"I wish to confer upon thee a boon; do thou pray for it". He then wanted that jewel. The sun gave it to him and then resumed his place in the sky. Satrajit placed that precious gem round his neck and lighting up all the quarters with his radiance like the sun entered the city of Dwārakā. Beholding him approach the inhabitant of Dwārakā went to that excellent Purusha, without beginning, who, to carry the burden of the world, assumed a mortal form, and said—"O lord, forsooth, the divine sun is coming to visit you". But Krishna smiled and said, "It is not the sun but Satrajit. He is coming here with the Syamantaka gem conferred upon him by the sun. You all see him with a fearless heart". Hearing this the inhabitants of Dwārakā repaired to their respective habitations. Satrajit too having gone to his house placed that jewel which gave daily eight loads of gold and through its uncommon power removed all fear of portents, wild beasts, fire, robbers, and famine. Krishna thought that the gem was worthy of the king Ugrasena and desired to take it but did not do so lest it might some disturbance in the family. Understanding that Krishna would ask of him the jewel Satrajit transferred it to his brother Prasena. It was the peculiar virtue of that gem, that if worn with all purity it would yield gold and prosperity of the kingdom but if worn by a man of bad character it would bring on his death. Prasena having taken the jewel and placed it round his neck mounted his horse and went to the forest to hunt. While thus hunting he was killed by a lion. The lion taking the jewel in his mouth was about to go when was seen and killed by Jamvabat the king of the bears, who taking the jewel went to his cave and gave it to his son Sukumara to play with.
When sometime had passed and Prasena did not come, the Yādavas began to whisper, one to another, "This must be Krishna's doing; being willing to get the jewel and not obtaining it he has committed the murder to get this into his possession".
When these calamities reached the ears of Krishna he gathered some members of the Yadu family and in their company followed the course of Prasena by the impressions of his horse's hoofs. And having found it by this way that he and his horse had been destroyed by the lion he was acquitted by all people of any share in the death. Desirous of getting back the jewel, he thence followed the foot-marks of the lion and at no great distance came to the place where the lion had been killed by the bear. Pursuing the foot-prints of the latter he arrived at the foot of a mountain where having kept the Yādavas he pursued the course. And following the impressions of the feet he found out a cavern and before he entered it he heard the nurse of Sukumāra saying to him "The lion killed Prasena; the lion has been killed by Jamvabat: weep not Sukumāra the Syamantaka is your own". Having thus ascertained the truth Krishna entered into the cavern and espied the jewel in the hands of the nurse who was giving it as a plaything to Sukumāra. The nurse in no time found out his approach and seeing his eyes eagerly fixed upon the jewel called aloud for help. Hearing her cries, Jamvabat, worked up with anger, came to that place and an encounter took place between him and the Achyuta which continued for twenty, one days. The Yādavas who followed Krishna waited there for seven or eight days expecting his return but as the slayer of Madhu did not come they arrived at the conclusion that he must have been destroyed in the cave. "It could not have taken so many days" they thought "to defeat a foe". They therefore went away, and came back to Dwārakā and announced that Krishna had been killed.
His relatives too performed ceremonies necessary for the occasion. Food and water offered reverentially to worthy persons tended to support his life and invigorate his strength in the conflict in which he was engaged. While his enemy being exhausted by daily combat with a powerful enemy, bruised in every limb by heavy blows and enfeebled by want of food became unable to resist him. Being thus defeated by his powerful enemy Jamvabat prostrated himself before him and said "O mighty being, thou art, for sooth invincible, by the spirits of heaven, earth or hell, thou canst not be defeated by man and powerless creatures in a human shape—what to speak of such as we are—who are of brute origin. Methinks thou art a portion of my lord Nārāyana the protector of the universe". Being thus addressed by the lord of bears Krishna explained to him fully that he had incarnated himself to take upon himself the burden of the earth. And delightedly touching him with his palms he relieved him of the pain which he had suffered from the fight. Jamvabat again laid himself low before Krishna and presented to him his daughter Jamvabati as a suitable offering to a guest. He also handed over to him the Syamantaka jewel. Although it was not becoming to accept a present from such an individual still he took the gem with a view to clear his reputation. He then came back with his bride Jamvabati to Dwārakā.
When the inhabitants of Dwārakā saw Krishna come back alive they were filled with joy so that even those who were greatly stricken in years were filled with youthful strength; and all the members of the Yadu family, men and women, gathered round Anakadundubhi, the father of the hero and congratulated him. Krishna described to the assembled Yādavas all that had taken place exactly and giving back the Syamantaka jewel to Satrajit was cleared off the charge of murder. He then conducted Jamvabati to the inner apartments.
When Satrajit thought that he had been the instrumental of the false charge against Krishna he was terrified and to satisfy him he gave in marriage with him his daughter Satyabhāmā. She had ere been sought in marriage by many illustrious members of the Yadu family as Akrura, Kritaverman, and Satadhanwan, who were greatly worked up with anger on account of her being married to another, and formed a common cause of enmity against Satrajit. The most leading man amongst them with Akrura and Kritavarman said to Satadhanwan—"By given her daughter to Krishna this caitiff Satrajit had insulted you and us grossly who wanted her: why do you not kill him and take the jewel? Should Achyuta on that account enter into conflict with you we will take your part". Having secured this promise Satadhanwan undertook to destroy Satrajit.
When the intelligence reached Krishna that the Pandavas lad been burned in the house of wax, he, who was acquainted with the real truth, immediately started for Baranāvata to allay the enmity of Duryodhana and perform the necessary duties of his relationship. Taking advantage of his absence Satadhanwan killed Satrajit while asleep and secured the jewel for himself. When Satyabhāmā came to know this, she, highly angered on account of her father's murder, at once ascended the chariot, went to Bāranāvat and told her husband how Satrajit had been killed by Satadhanwan in anger on account of her being married to another, and how the jewel had been taken away by him. And she requested him to take immediate steps to avenge such a heinous crime.
Being thus informed Krishna, though pleased at heart, said to Satyabhāmā, assuming an indignant look—"This is an insult to me! I shall never brook it. One cannot destroy the birds that have built their nests on a tree without assailing it. Remove excessive grief therefore; you need not lament to excite my wrath". Immediately coming back to Dwārakā Krishna took Baladeva apart and said to him. "A lion slew Prasena while hunting in the forests; and now Satrajit has been killed by Satadhanwan. As both these are gone, the jewel which belonged to them, is now our common right. Up then, ascend your car and destroy Satadhanwan".
Being thus excited by his brother, Balarāma engaged in the work; but Satadhanwan being aware of their hostile intention went to Kritavarman and prayed for his help. Kritavarman did not agree saying that he was not able to fight with both Krishna and Baladeva. Being disappointed he again solicited Akrura for help who said—"You must go to some body else for help. How should I be able to defend you? Even none, amongst the celestials whose glories are chanted throughout the universe, is capable of fighting with the holder of the discus, trodden by whose foot the three worlds tremble, whose hand makes the wives of the Asuras widows, whose weapons,—no army, however powerful can resist;—no one is able to fight with the wielder of ploughshare, who by his very looks, nullifies the prowess of his enemies, whose eyes roll with the joys of wine, and whose huge ploughshare manifests his prowess by destroying the most powerful enemies". Whereto Satadhanwan replied—"While such is the case and you are unable assist me, you may at least help me by keeping this jewel in your possession". "I can keep it" Akrura said "if you promise that even in the last extremity you won't give out that the jewel is in my possession". Satadhanwan agreed to this and Akrura took the jewel. And mounting a fleet mare that could run a hundred leagues a day Satadhanwan fled from Dwārakā.
When this intelligence reached Krishna, he made ready his four horses Sarvya, Sugriva, Meghapushpa, and Balahakai, set them to his car and accompanied by Balarāma, started in his pursuit. The mare went on speedily and finished her hundred leagues but when she reached the country of Mithilā, her strength was exhausted and she dropped down and died. Having got down, Satadhanwan continued his flight on foot. When the pursuers came to the place where the mare had died Krishna said to Balarāma—"Do you remain in the car; I shall follow the villain on foot and kill him; the ground here is bad; and the horses will not be able to carry the car across it". Accordingly Balarāma remained in the car and Krishna followed Satadhanwan on foot. When he had pursued him for two Kos he discharged his discus and although Satadhanwan was at a considerable distance the weapon dissevered his head. He then searched his person and clothes very attentively but did not find the jewel. Then coming back he said to Balarāma—"I have for nothing destroyed Satadhanwan—for I have not found on his person the precious gem—the quintessence of all worlds". When Balarāma heard this, he was excited with anger and said to Vāsudeva—"Shame upon you—so greedy of wealth. I don't acknowledge you as my brother. Here is my path. Go wherever you like, I have done with Dwārakā, with you with all our house. It is useless for you to try to deceive me with these perjuries". Having remonstrated with his brother thus, who in vain tried to please him. Balarāma went to the city of Videha, where Janaka received him hospitably and there he remained. Vāsudeva came back to Dwārakā. While Balarāma stayed in the house of Janaka, Duryodhana, the son of Dhritarastra learnt from him the art of fighting with the mace.
In this way three years passed away. Babru, Ugrasena and other Yādavas then repaired to the city of Videha and convinced Balarāma that Krishna had stolen the jewel. They then brought him to Dwārakā.
Akrura too, to utilise the gold produced by the jewel, continually engaged in the celebration of sacrifices. Considering that the murderer of a Kshatriya or Vaiçya engaged in religious duties, is the slayer of Brahmin, Akrura spent sixty-two years being protected by the armour of devotion. And by virtue of that gem there was no death, nor pestilence in the whole country. At the end of that period, Satrughna, the great grandson of Satwata was killed by Bhojas. As they were connected with Akrura he accompanied them in their flight from Dwārakā. From the time of his departure various calamities, portents, snakes, dearth, plague and the like began to take place. Thereupon the illustrious Krishna called together Baladeva, Ugrasena and other Yādavas and consulted with them to ascertain why so many prodigies should have taken place at the same time. On this Andhaka one of the elders of the Yadu family spoke—"Wherever Swaphalka the father of Akrura lived, there famine, plague, dearth and other visitations were unknown. Once when there was want of rain in the kingdom of Kasirāja, Swaphalka was brought there and immediately there fell rain from the heavens. It also happened that the queen of Kasirāja conceived and was big with a child but when the time of delivery came the child did not come out of the womb. Twelve years went away and still the girl was unborn. Then the Kasirāja spoke to the child, saying 'Daughter, why is your birth thus delayed? Come out, I wish to see you; why do you inflict this continued suffering upon your mother?' Thus addressed the infant said—'O father, if you will present a cow daily to the Brahmans I shall be born at the end of three years'. Accordingly the king presented a cow every day to the Brahmans and at the end of three years the girl came out of the womb. Her father called her Gāndini and he afterwards gave her to Swaphalka when he came to his palace to help him. Gāndini as long as she lived, gave a cow to the Brahmans every day. Akrura was her son by Swaphalka. And he is thus born from a combination of extraordinary excellence. When such a person is absent from us it is likely that famine, pestilence and prodigies should take place. Let him then be requested to come back; the weak points of men of excellence should not be too severely criticized".
In accordance with the advice of Andhaka the elder, the Yādavas sent a mission headed by Kesava, Ugrasena and Balabhadra, to assure Akrura that no notice of his fault would be taken. And having convinced him that he would expect no danger they brought him back to Dwārakā. As soon as he arrived on account of the virtue of the jewel, the plague, dearth, famine and every other calamity and portent disappeared. Seeing this Krishna thought that the birth of Akrura from Gāndini and Swaphalka could not bring about such an effect and he must have some other more powerful virtue to arrest pestilence and famine. "Certainly" thought he within himself "the great Syamantaka jewel must be in his keeping, for these, as I have heard, are the properties of the jewel. Akrura too has been performing many sacrifices; his own means are not sufficient for the purpose, undoubtedly he has got the jewel in his possession". Having arrived at this conclusion, he called together all Yādavas at his house under the plea of celebrating some feast. After they had all taken their seals and the object of the meeting had been explained to them and the business finished Krishna began to converse with Akrura and laughing and joking, said to him—"Kinsman, you are a prince in your liberality and we know very well that the valuable gem which was stolen by Sudhanwan was given to you and is now in your possession, to the great benefit of this kingdom. So let it remain; we all derive advantage from its virtues. But Bhalabhadra suspects that I have it and therefore, out of kindness to me shew it to the assembly". When Akrura, who had the jewel in his possession, was thus taxed he hesitated what he should do. He thought—"If I deny that I have the jewel, they will search my person and find the gem hidden amongst my clothes. I cannot submit myself to a search". Thinking thus Akrura said to Nārāyana, the cause of the universe "It is true, Syamantaka jewel was given to my care by Satadhanwan when he left this place. I expected every day that you should ask me for it and with great inconvenience to myself I have retained it. The care of this has put me to so much anxiety that I have not been able to enjoy any pleasure or a moment's rest. Being afraid lest you might think, that I am unfit to keep this jewel which is the source of welfare to the kingdom I did not mention to you that it is in my possession. Now take it yourself and give its charge to any body you like". Having said this Akrura got out of his clothes a small gold box and took from it the jewel. When it was shown to the assembled Yādavas the room in which they sat was illuminated with its radiance, "This" said Akrura "is the Syamantaka jewel which was left to my care by Satadhanwan. Let him to whom it belongs now take it".
When the Yādavas saw the jewel they were filled with surprise and loudly expressed their joy. Balabhadra immediately claimed the jewel as his property jointly with Achyuta as was formerly settled; whereas Satyabhāmā wanted it as her rightful property for it belonged to her father. Between these two Krishna considered himself as an ox between the two wheels of a cart, and thus said to Akrura in presence of the Yadavas—"This jewel has been shown to you all in order to clear my reputation; it is the joint-property of Balabhadra and myself and is the paternal property of Satyabhāmā. But as a source of advantage to the kingdom this jewel must be consigned to the charge of one who leads a life of perpetual continence; if worn by an impure man it will prove the cause of his death. As I have sixteen thousand wives I am not qualified to use it. It is not probable that Satyabhāmā would agree to the conditions, satisfying which she may possess it And as regards Balabhadra, he is greatly addicted to wine and sensual pleasures. We are therefore all out of question. All the Yādavas, Balabhadra, Satyabhāmā and myself request you, most liberal Akrura, to keep this jewel in your possession, as you have done up to this time for the general behoof; for you are qualified to keep it and in your hands it has proved beneficial to the country. You must comply with your request".
Thus requested Akrura took the jewel and thenceforth wore it publicly round his neck where it shone with dazzling radiance and he moved about like the sun wearing a garland of light.
He, who remembers the vindication of Krishna's character from false charges, shall never be subject to any false charge in the least degree and living in the full display of senses, shall be freed from every sin.