Brihadyatra 34: adhyāyaḥ 34

Chapter 34: Sequel to Victory

Through glows of the quarters, falls of showers of blood, dust, and stones, and through portentous anomalies such as atmospheric convulsions and earthquakes,

and through beasts and birds uttering inflamed cries at the end of battle, no good comes to the king even in victory.

When beasts and birds are auspicious, the gentle breeze brings delight,

the planets have clear rays, and the circle of the quarters is free of dust,

and when no other portentous anomaly occurs at the conclusion of victory,

then the king enjoys the enemy's country in comfort, free of thorns.

Having performed marriage, an untimely festival, or the consecration of his son,

he, unimpeded in his departure, then approaches on festival days.

Upon taking the enemy's territory and city, the property of the virtuous, gods, and Brahmins,

as well as women of noble family, the king should not harass.

He should not strike those deprived of elephants, horses, and weapons, nor those distressed by food[-shortage] or frightened,

and with his army delighted, he should dwell [there] on an auspicious tithi, weekday, and lunar mansion.

Having returned to his own territory, the lord of men should offer tribute and additional votive gifts

in accordance with the prescribed rule to the primary Gaṇas, asuras, spirits, and deities.

The ruler of men who thus carries out the words of the knowers of the zodiacal circle according to instruction,

soon attains suzerainty over the entire circle of kings, like Purandara in heaven.