Shloka 20
Chapter 85: Suvarṇasya Janma ca Pradāna-Phalam
The Origin of Gold and the Merit of Gifting
महाभागा भवत्यो वै शरण्या: शरणागताम् । परित्रायन्तु मां नित्यं भजमानामनिन्दिताम्
mahābhāgā bhavatyō vai śaraṇyāḥ śaraṇāgatām | paritrāyantu māṃ nityaṃ bhajamānām aninditām ||
Bhīṣma said: “O greatly fortunate ladies, you are truly the refuge of those who seek shelter. Protect me always—I who have come to you for refuge, who worship you, and who am without blame. Therefore, accept me and grant me your protection.”
भीष्म उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse emphasizes śaraṇāgati (seeking refuge): those who are truly ‘śaraṇya’—worthy protectors—are ethically bound to protect a sincere, blameless devotee who approaches them with humility and devotion.
Bhīṣma voices a formal plea for protection, addressing revered female protectors (implied divine or venerable ladies) as the refuge of supplicants, declaring his/her devotion and blamelessness, and asking to be accepted and safeguarded.