Shloka 13
Cyavana Explains His Tests; Kuśika Seeks Brāhmaṇya for His Line (च्यवन–कुशिक संवादः)
तपोधन! अबतक तो इस धर्मके मार्गका पालन नहीं हुआ और समय निकल गया, परंतु अब आपके सहयोग और कृपासे इसका पालन करूँगा। अत: आप मुझे आज्ञा प्रदान करें कि मैं आपकी क्या सेवा करूँ ।।
bhīṣma uvāca | atha āsanam upādāya cyavanasya mahāmuneḥ | kuśiko bhāryayā sārtham ājagāma yato muniḥ ||
“O treasure of austerity! Until now this path of dharma has not been observed, and the time has slipped away; yet now, with your help and favor, I shall uphold it. Therefore grant me your command—what service shall I render you?” Bhishma said: Then Kuśika, taking a seat meant for the great sage Cyavana, went together with his wife to the place where the sage was.
भीष्म उवाच
Educational Q&A
Dharma is shown through conduct: one should approach a sage respectfully, prepared to offer appropriate honor (such as a seat) and service, recognizing spiritual authority and practicing humility.
Bhishma narrates that Kuśika, accompanied by his wife, goes to the sage Cyavana’s location, carrying a seat for him—signaling an intention to honor the rishi and engage in proper, dharmic interaction.