Sacred Concord

Mbh 3.76.1d

Mahabharata · translated by Kisari Mohan Ganguli

And overwhelmed with sorrow, that tiger among men stood for some time, clasping the dust-covered Damayanti of sweet smiles. And, O king, the queen-mother then, with a glad heart, told Bhima all that had passed between Nala and Damayanti. And the mighty monarch answered, ‘Let Nala pass this day in peace, to-morrow I shall see him after his bath and prayers, with Damayanti by his side.’ And, O king, they passed that night pleasantly, in relating to each other the past incidents of their life in the forest. And with hearts filled with joy, the princess of Vidarbha and Nala began to pass their days in the palace of king Bhima, intent upon making each other happy. And it was in the fourth year (after the loss of his kingdom) that Nala was re-united with his wife, and all his desires gratified, once more experienced the highest bliss. And Damayanti rejoiced exceedingly in having recovered her lord even as fields of tender plants on receiving a shower. And Bhima’s daughter, thus recovering her lord, obtained her wish, and blazed forth in beauty, her weariness gone, her anxieties dispelled and herself swelling with joy, ever like a night that is lit by the bright disc of the moon!”
Mbh 3.76.1d · Mahabharata · VANA PARVA

Themes in this passage

JoyLeadershipThe DivineNatureChildrenDesireGriefMarriage

Joy in other traditions

The same theme, as Christianity, Islam, Buddhism and Hellenism address it.

And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth.
Luke 1:14 · Bible · Luke
Those who believe and do right: Joy is for them, and bliss (their) journey's end.
Quran 13:29 · Quran
Forests are delightful; where the world finds no delight, there the passionless will find delight, for they look not for pleasures.
Dhp 7.99 · Dhammapada · The Venerable (Arhat)
He said, and placed the goblet at his side; With joy the venerable king replied:
Iliad 23.46 · Iliad · 23

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