Shloka 8
Sārasvata–Dadhīca Upākhyāna at Sarasvatī Tīrtha
Balarāma’s Pilgrimage Context
देवलो दर्शयन्नेव नैवायुझड्जत धर्मत: । एवं तयोर्महाराज दीर्घकालो व्यतिक्रमत्
Vaiśampāyana uvāca | devalo darśayann eva naivāyujyad dharmataḥ | evaṃ tayor mahārāja dīrghakālo vyatikramat ||
Vaiśampāyana said: Although Devala kept presenting (the means and instruction), he did not, in accordance with dharma, compel or yoke (him) to the discipline. Thus, O great king, a long time passed for the two of them (there).
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights ethical restraint in spiritual instruction: even when a teacher can demonstrate the path, dharma does not endorse coercion. Right conduct includes patience and respect for readiness.
Vaiśampāyana narrates that Devala continued to indicate the way, yet did not force the other party into the discipline; consequently, a long period passed while both remained there.