Ramayana — Bala Kanda, Sarga 64, Shloka 20
रम्भा
प्रलोभनम् — Rambhā’s Temptation and Viśvāmitra’s Curse
एवं वर्षसहस्रस्य दीक्षां स मुनिपुङ्गव:।।1.64.20।।चकाराप्रतिमां लोके प्रतिज्ञां रघुनन्दन।
evaṃ varṣasahasrasya dīkṣāṃ sa munipuṅgavaḥ || 1.64.20 ||
cakārāpratimāṃ loke pratijñāṃ raghunandana |
O Raghunandana, in this manner that foremost of sages undertook an unparalleled vow in the world—an observance of austerity for a thousand years.
At these words (of Indra), Rambha, assumed any form of excellent beauty and with a bright smile set out to allure Viswamitra.
FAQs
Steadfastness to a righteous vow: dharma is upheld through long endurance, disciplined practice, and fidelity to one’s solemn resolve (pratijñā), sustained by satya (truthfulness to one’s word).
After the episode of attempted distraction, the sage recommits himself and undertakes a thousand-year observance—marking the chapter’s conclusion.
Perseverance and vow-keeping—unshaken commitment to tapas over immense time—are emphasized as the defining strength of the sage.