Shloka 4
Sārasvata–Dadhīca Upākhyāna at Sarasvatī Tīrtha
Balarāma’s Pilgrimage Context
काउ्चने लोष्ठ भावे च समदर्शी महातपा: । देवानपूजयतन्नित्यमतिथींश्व द्विजैः सह
kāñcane loṣṭha-bhāve ca samadarśī mahātapāḥ | devān apūjayat nityam atithīṃś ca dvijaiḥ saha ||
Vaiśampāyana said: That great ascetic looked with equal regard upon gold and a clod of earth. Ever steadfast in reverence, he daily worshipped the gods and, together with the Brahmins, honored and received guests with due hospitality—showing a life grounded in detachment, devotion, and righteous conduct.
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
True dharma is shown through equanimity toward wealth and poverty (gold and clay) and through steady daily practice of devotion and hospitality—honoring gods, Brahmins, and guests without attachment or discrimination.
Vaiśampāyana describes a great ascetic’s character: he is indifferent to material value and is portrayed as consistently performing worship and welcoming guests respectfully in the company of Brahmins.