Shloka 51
Ratna-parīkṣā: Vajra (Diamond/Thunderbolt) — Origin, Types, Testing, Defects, Weights, and Royal Auspiciousness
यद्यपि विशीर्णकोटिः सबिन्दुरेखान्वितो विवर्णो वा / तदपि धनधान्यपुत्रान्करोति सेन्द्रायुधो वज्रः
yadyapi viśīrṇakoṭiḥ sabindurekhānvito vivarṇo vā / tadapi dhanadhānyaputrānkaroti sendrāyudho vajraḥ
Even if the thunderbolt—the vajra, Indra’s weapon—is chipped at the tip, marked with spots and lines, or even discolored, it still brings forth wealth, grain, and sons, for it is the vajra, the weapon of Indra.
Lord Vishnu (to Garuda)
Concept: A potent cause retains efficacy despite minor defects; auspicious substances can yield worldly fruits (artha, prajā) when properly possessed/used.
Vedantic Theme: Prārabdha-like limitation vs underlying śakti: surface defects do not negate essential potency; also a subtle lesson in not judging solely by external blemish.
Application: Do not discard valuable resources or people due to minor imperfections; focus on core capability and proper utilization.
Primary Rasa: adbhuta
Secondary Rasa: vira
Type: celestial court (implied)
Related Themes: Garuda Purana 1.68: vajra-phala (benefits) and defect-tolerance in gem appraisal
FAQs
The verse uses the vajra as a symbol of inherent power: even when outwardly flawed, its essential potency remains and it is still said to yield prosperity and progeny.
It emphasizes intrinsic nature over superficial appearance—what is truly powerful or dharmically endowed can still bear fruit despite visible defects.
Do not judge worth solely by external imperfections; cultivate inner strength and consistency, trusting that genuine capability can still produce good outcomes.