'O Yudhishthira, it is often from the desire to win, which may not always be noble, that one high-born person challenges another in a contest of superiority. Similarly, the desire to outshine, which is not always honorable, drives one learned person to compete with another in matters of knowledge. However, such motives are seldom considered truly dishonest.' ।। 2-53-11 ।।
एवं तवं माम इहाभ्येत्य निकृतिं यदि मन्यसे देवनाद विनिवर्तस्व यदि ते विद्यते भयम ।। २-५३-१२ ।।
'O Yudhishthira, just as a skilled warrior challenges one less skilled, and the strong confronts the weak, so too does a person seek victory in every contest. The motive is always to win. If you believe that my intentions are dishonest or if you have any fear, then, by all means, withdraw from the game.' ।। 2-53-12 ।।
[य] आहूतॊ न निवर्तेयम इति मे वरतम आहितम विधिश च बलवान राजन दिष्टस्यास्मि वशे सथितः ।। २-५३-१३ ।।
'Yudhishthira said, "Having been summoned, I do not withdraw; this is my solemn vow. And, O king, Fate governs all. We are all subject to the forces of destiny."' ।। 2-53-13 ।।
'Duryodhana said, "O monarch, I will provide jewels, gems, and all kinds of wealth. It is for me that my uncle Shakuni will participate in the game."' ।। 2-53-15 ।।