Shloka 23

Matsya Purana — Manifestation of Kauśikī

Devanagari script

घातिते चाहमाज्ञप्तो नीलकण्ठेन कोपिना द्वारेषु नावधानं ते यस्मात्पश्यामि वै ततः //

Transliteration

ghātite cāhamājñapto nīlakaṇṭhena kopinā dvāreṣu nāvadhānaṃ te yasmātpaśyāmi vai tataḥ //

Translation

Moreover, after the slaying, I was commanded by the wrathful Nīlakaṇṭha: “Because I see that you are not vigilant at the gates, therefore (I issue this order).”

Word by Word

• घातिते: when (someone) has been slain/after the killing

• च: and/moreover

• अहम्: I

• आज्ञप्तः: was ordered/commanded

• नीलकण्ठेन: by Nīlakaṇṭha

• कोपिना: wrathful/angered

• द्वारेषु: at the gates/doorways

• न-अवधानम्: lack of attention/negligence

• ते: your/of you

• यस्मात्: because/since

• पश्यामि: I see/observe

• वै: indeed/certainly

• ततः: therefore/thereupon.

Speaker

• A messenger/attendant reporting Nīlakaṇṭha’s command (court/palace context)

Entities Mentioned

• Nīlakaṇṭha

Tags

• Gatekeeping
• Royal discipline
• Negligence
• Command
• Security

FAQs

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

This verse does not discuss pralaya; it focuses on administrative vigilance and the consequences of negligence in a guarded setting.

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

It reflects the dharmic principle of accountability: rulers (and householders managing dependents) must enforce attentive service—especially security at entrances—since negligence can lead to harm and disorder.

What is the architectural or ritual significance mentioned here?

Architecturally, it highlights the functional importance of “dvāra” (gates/doorways) as controlled access points—an implicit reminder that entrances require supervision and disciplined management in any well-ordered residence or palace.