Shloka 45
Nīti on Friendship (Mitra), Discretion, Restraint, Health-Regimens, Prosperity (Śrī), and Family Dharma
विप्रयोर्विप्रवह्न्योश्च दम्पत्योः स्वामिनोस्तथा / अन्तरेण न गन्तव्यं हयस्य वृषभस्य च
viprayorvipravahnyośca dampatyoḥ svāminostathā / antareṇa na gantavyaṃ hayasya vṛṣabhasya ca
One should not pass between two brāhmaṇas, between two sacred fires, between husband and wife, or between oneself and one’s master; likewise, one should not go between a horse and a bull.
Lord Vishnu (in instruction to Garuda/Vinata-putra, as part of dharma/upachara conduct)
Concept: Maryādā (proper boundaries) and respect for sacred/hierarchical entities; avoid inauspicious transgression of ‘between-ness’.
Vedantic Theme: Dharma as harmonizing order (ṛta-like) in society; humility and restraint reduce ego-driven intrusion.
Application: Do not cut between paired sacred/important entities; wait, go around, or request passage—especially between brāhmaṇas, consecrated fires, spouses, one’s master; also avoid passing between a horse and a bull.
Primary Rasa: shanta
Secondary Rasa: bhayanaka
Type: ritual/social pathway (house, village lane, yajna space)
Related Themes: Garuda Purana 1.114 (ācāra rules on movement, respect, and auspicious conduct)
FAQs
This verse teaches ācāra (proper conduct): avoiding the space “between” revered beings or sacred fire preserves respect, ritual purity, and prevents inadvertent offense (aparādha).
Alongside afterlife topics, the Garuda Purana also lays down dharma-based daily disciplines; such etiquette supports a sattvic life that aligns one’s karma with righteous order.
In temples, rituals, or formal settings, avoid cutting between priests, the sacred fire/altar area, a couple performing rites together, or one’s teacher/superior; instead, go around respectfully.