Shloka 14
Kṣātra-Dharma, Daṇḍanīti, and Social Order
Indra–Māndhātṛ Dialogue
जगाम शिरसा पादीौ यज्ञे विष्णोर्महात्मन: । दर्शयामास तं॑ विष्णू रूपमास्थाय वासवम्
jagāma śirasā pādau yajñe viṣṇor mahātmanaḥ | darśayāmāsa taṃ viṣṇur rūpam āsthāya vāsavam |
Bhishma said: King Māndhātṛ, in that sacrifice, bowed with profound devotion at the feet of the Supreme Lord Viṣṇu, placing his head upon the earth in reverence. Pleased thereby, Lord Viṣṇu revealed Himself to him, assuming the form of Vāsava (Indra). The episode underscores that sincere humility and devotion in sacred duty draw divine grace, even when the Lord chooses to appear through a familiar divine form.
भीष्म उवाच
Educational Q&A
True dharmic action, especially in sacred rites, is fulfilled by humility and heartfelt devotion; such surrender invites divine grace, and the Lord may reveal Himself in whatever form best suits the devotee and the occasion.
During King Māndhātṛ’s sacrifice, he bows at Viṣṇu’s feet with deep reverence. In response, Viṣṇu grants him a direct vision, appearing in the form of Vāsava (Indra).