When, however, the aristocracy becomes separated
and disunited and destitute of leaders, other courses of action should be
followed. If the members of the aristocracy quarrel with one another and
act, each according to his own resources, without combination, their
prosperity dwindles away and diverse kinds of evil occur. Those amongst
them that are possessed of learning and wisdom should tread down a
dispute as soon as it happens. Indeed, if the seniors of a race look on
with indifference, quarrels break out amongst the members. Such quarrels
bring about the destruction of a race and produce disunion among the
(entire order of the) nobles. Protect thyself, O king, from all fears
that arise from within. Fears, however, that arise from outside are of
little consequence. The first kind of fear, O king, may cut thy roots in
a single day. Persons that are equal to one another in family and blood,
influenced by wrath or folly or covetousness arising from their very
natures, cease to speak with one another. This is an indication of
defeat. It is not by courage, nor by intelligence, nor by beauty, nor by
wealth, that enemies succeed in destroying the aristocracy. It is only by
disunion and gifts that it can be reduced to subjugation. For this
reason, combination has been said to be the great refuge of the
aristocracy.'"[331]
SECTION CVIII
"Yudhishthira said, 'The path of duty is long. It has also, O Bharata,
many branches. What, however, according to thee, are those duties that
most deserve to be practised? What acts, according to thee, are the most
important among all duties, by the practice of which I may earn the
highest merit both here and hereafter?'
"Bhishma said, 'The worship of mother, father, and preceptor is most
important according to me.
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