Shloka 13
Vāraṇāvatāgamana: Public Farewell, Vidura’s Coded Counsel, and Departure
स समर्थोडपि मोक्षाय शिष्यान् सर्वानचोदयत् | ग्राहं हत्वा मोक्षयध्वं मामिति त्वरयन्निव,वे अपनेको छुड़ानेमें समर्थ होते हुए भी मानो हड़बड़ाये हुए अपने सभी शिष्योंसे बोले --'इस ग्राहको मारकर मुझे बचाओ”
sa samartho 'pi mokṣāya śiṣyān sarvān acodayat | grāhaṃ hatvā mokṣayadhvaṃ mām iti tvarayann iva ||
Vaiśampāyana said: Though he was himself capable of securing release, he urged all his disciples, as if in haste: “Kill this crocodile and free me!” The moment underscores the urgency of rescuing one in distress and the ethical call to act decisively to protect a teacher and uphold one’s duty.
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights dharma in action: when a teacher or elder is in immediate danger, disciples should respond swiftly and decisively. It also shows that even the capable may call upon others, giving them the opportunity to fulfill their duty and demonstrate loyalty and courage.
A person seized by a crocodile urges his disciples to kill the crocodile and free him. The narration emphasizes the urgency of the moment and frames the disciples’ response as a test of responsibility and readiness to protect their teacher.