Shloka 19

Matsya Purana — Conclusion of the Prayaga Mahatmya: Kingship Restored

Devanagari script

ततस्तत्र समाप्लाव्य गात्राणि सगणो नृपः यथोक्तेनाथ विधिना परां निर्वृतिमागमत् //

Transliteration

tatastatra samāplāvya gātrāṇi sagaṇo nṛpaḥ yathoktenātha vidhinā parāṃ nirvṛtimāgamat //

Translation

Then, there itself, the king—together with his attendants—bathed and cleansed his limbs; and, following the procedure exactly as prescribed, he attained profound tranquility and contentment.

Word by Word

• tataḥ: then

• tatra: there (in that very place)

• samāplāvya: having thoroughly washed/bathed

• gātrāṇi: the limbs, the body

• sa-gaṇaḥ: along with his group/retinue/attendants

• nṛpaḥ: the king

• yathā-uktena: as stated, as prescribed

• atha: then/thereupon

• vidhinā: by the rule, by the proper rite/procedure

• parām: supreme, highest

• nirvṛtim: peace, cessation of distress, deep satisfaction

• āgamat: attained, reached.

Speaker

• Sūta (narratorial voice within the Purāṇic frame; describing the king’s observance)

Entities Mentioned

• nṛpa (the king)
• gaṇa (retinue/attendants)

Tags

• Ritual Bath
• Dharma
• Royal Conduct
• Purification
• Vidhi

FAQs

What does this verse reveal about the creation or dissolution (Pralaya)?

This verse does not describe pralaya directly; it emphasizes ritual purification and correct observance (vidhi) as a means to attain inner calm—an ethical-ritual theme rather than a cosmological one.

How does this verse relate to the duties of a King or Householder?

It portrays the king as a model practitioner of dharma: he performs bodily purification and follows prescribed rules precisely, suggesting that rulers (and householders) should uphold disciplined, text-guided conduct to cultivate serenity and auspiciousness.

What is the architectural or ritual significance mentioned here?

The ritual significance is the stress on yathokta-vidhi—doing rites exactly as enjoined—especially bathing/purification as a preparatory act that supports successful worship, vows, donations, or other sanctioned ceremonies.