Rules of game

Mahabharata Sabhaparva section 48-49

Sri Sadgurubhyoh Namah

Yudhistir enters the palace erected specially for playing dice. There he finds kauravas with Sakuni and other kings already assembled. Having paid respects to all according to age wise, Yudhistir along with his brothers takes a seat. Sakuni then says "O King, all are waiting , let us fix the rules of game and start the play".

Yudhisitir : "Playing with cunning and decietful nature is sinful. There is no kshatriya glory in that. O Sakuni, vanquish us by decietful means".

Sakuni : "It is the stakes that are won or lost that injures us, not the game of dice. let us fix the stakes and start the play".

Yudhistir : "Sage Devala, son of Asita, instructed us that it is sinful to play dice with gamesters and cheats. There is glory in battle that was done without deciet. Gambling and cheating  do not have glory in it. Do not win of us that wealth using which we support brahmanas".

Sakuni : "The strong approach weak in battle to win. This is the practice in every contest. Motive is winning in any contest including this game. If you think I am playing with deceit then desist from playing".

Yudhistir : "I have taken a vow to play if summoned. Nobody can surpass fate and destiny. Let us start. Who should  I play with".

Duryodhan : "O King, Sakuni will play on behalf of me, I will supply the wealth for his stakes".

Yudhistir : "Gambling with an agent is also sinful which you also will agree. However,let it be and start the play".

Yudhistir stakes a necklace of pearls, and Sakuni casts dice and says 'Lo I have won'.

Hari Om

Atmajyoti in Guruseva