Shloka 24
The Examination of Pearls and Padmarāga (Ruby): Origins, Marks, Defects, and Valuation
स्त्रेहप्रदिग्धः प्रतिभाति यश्च यो वा प्रघृष्टः प्रजहाति दीप्तिम् / आक्रान्तमूर्धा च तथाङ्गुलिभ्यां यः कालिकां पार्श्वगतां बिभर्ति
strehapradigdhaḥ pratibhāti yaśca yo vā praghṛṣṭaḥ prajahāti dīptim / ākrāntamūrdhā ca tathāṅgulibhyāṃ yaḥ kālikāṃ pārśvagatāṃ bibharti
That lamp which, when smeared with oil, shines forth, yet when rubbed too much abandons its brilliance; and that (creature) whose head is pressed down and whose fingers bear dark stains along the sides—all these are recognized here as signs in this matter.
Lord Vishnu
Concept: Behavior under conditions reveals true nature: oil enhances shine, excessive friction diminishes it; pressure and side-stains indicate hidden defects—diagnosis by stress-testing and marks.
Vedantic Theme: Parīkṣā (testing) and anitya of superficial brilliance; discernment through observing change under contact (saṃyoga).
Application: Evaluate reliability by observing performance under use/stress; avoid being misled by temporary polish or forced shine.
Primary Rasa: adbhuta
Secondary Rasa: bibhatsa
Related Themes: Garuda Purana 1.70 (lakṣaṇa lists; analogies for dīpti and doṣa)
FAQs
This verse uses concrete imagery (lamp brightness, stains, pressure marks) to indicate observable signs that are interpreted within the Preta-khanda teachings as reflections of condition and consequence, prompting timely ritual and ethical correction.
In the Preta Kanda’s instructional frame, such signs are treated as indicators connected to the being’s state and karmic burden, reinforcing that post-death experience is shaped by prior actions and requires appropriate rites and conduct.
Maintain ethical discipline and perform prescribed family rites with care; the broader takeaway is that neglect and excess both diminish “light,” so balanced living and timely dharmic observance are emphasized.