Shloka 2
उत्तङ्कोपाख्यानम् — Maṇi-Kuṇḍala Retrieval and Entry into Nāgaloka
Chapter 57
चकार न व्यथां विप्रो राजा त्वेनमथाब्रवीत् । प्रत्युत्थाय महातेजा भयकर्ता यमोपम:
Vaiśampāyana uvāca | cakāra na vyathāṃ vipro rājā tv enam athābravīt | pratyutthāya mahātejā bhayakartā yamopamaḥ ||
Vaiśampāyana said: The brāhmaṇa did not feel the least agitation. Seeing him, the mighty king—terrible like Yama—rose in respect and then addressed him. The scene underscores the ethical ideal that true spiritual authority (brahminical austerity and learning) can stand fearless before worldly power, while righteous kingship honors dharma by showing due reverence to a worthy brāhmaṇa.
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights dharmic hierarchy and conduct: a spiritually grounded brāhmaṇa remains unshaken before intimidating power, and a righteous king upholds dharma by rising to honor and respectfully addressing a worthy brāhmaṇa.
A brāhmaṇa arrives before a fearsome, powerful king. The brāhmaṇa shows no fear, while the king rises in greeting and begins to speak to him, signaling formal respect and the start of their exchange.