Shloka 66
Aṣṭāvakra–Strī-saṃvāda: Dhṛti, hospitality, and a dispute on autonomy
ततस्तस्या भवच्चिन्ता कुत्र वासो भवेदिति । अथ द्वारं समभितो गत्वा स्थित्वा ततो<ब्रवीत्,वहाँ पहुँचकर अष्टावक्रके मनमें यह चिन्ता हुई कि अब कहाँ ठहरा जाय। यह विचार उठते ही वे प्रमुख द्वारके समीप गये और खड़े होकर बोले--
tatas tasyā bhavac cintā kutra vāso bhaved iti | atha dvāraṃ samabhito gatvā sthitvā tato 'bravīt |
Da stieg in ihm die Sorge auf: „Wo soll ich nun verweilen?“ Sobald dieser Gedanke aufkam, ging er zum Haupttor, blieb dort stehen und sprach—ein Zeichen praktischer Einsicht und Selbstzucht, ehe er weiterhandelte.
भीष्म उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights measured conduct: before acting, one reflects on what is appropriate (here, where to reside), then approaches the proper place (the main gate) and speaks openly—suggesting restraint, propriety, and situational discernment as aspects of dharma.
A character becomes concerned about where to stay, then goes to the principal gateway, stands there, and begins to speak—setting up the next exchange or request connected with lodging or entry.