Srimad Bhagavatam — Navama Skandha, Shloka 42
Nābhāga’s Inheritance, Śiva’s Verdict, and the Rise of Ambarīṣa—Prelude to Durvāsā’s Offense
दुर्वास यमुनाकूलात् कृतावश्यक आगत: । राज्ञाभिनन्दितस्तस्य बुबुधे चेष्टितं धिया ॥ ४२ ॥
durvāsā yamunā-kūlāt kṛtāvaśyaka āgataḥ rājñābhinanditas tasya bubudhe ceṣṭitaṁ dhiyā
After executing the ritualistic ceremonies to be performed at noon, Durvāsā returned from the bank of the Yamunā. The King received him well, offering all respects, but Durvāsā Muni, by his mystic power, could understand that King Ambarīṣa had drunk water without his permission.
FAQs
It states that after completing his ritual observances at the Yamunā, Durvāsā returned and, though welcomed by King Ambarīṣa, immediately understood by his own intelligence what the King had done.
Because Durvāsā was a powerful sage; upon being received by the King, he discerned that Ambarīṣa had acted (by taking water) to protect his vow and the time-bound religious duty, even before the guest had eaten.
It teaches that one should honor guests sincerely, yet also act responsibly to uphold one’s legitimate duties—ideally by balancing etiquette with clear, conscientious decision-making.