Shloka 52

Matsya Purana — The Array of the Gods: Description of the Vaiṣṇava Host and the Lokapālas

Devanagari script

स्वस्त्यस्तु देवेभ्य इति बृहस्पतिरभाषत स्वस्त्यस्तु दानवानीक उशना वाक्यमाददे //

Transliteration

svastyastu devebhya iti bṛhaspatirabhāṣata svastyastu dānavānīka uśanā vākyamādade //

Translation

“May there be well-being for the gods,” said Bṛhaspati. “May there be well-being for the host of Dānavas,” replied Uśanā, taking up the word in turn.

Word by Word

• svasti: welfare, auspiciousness

• astu: may it be

• devebhyaḥ: for the Devas (gods)

• iti: thus

• bṛhaspatiḥ: Bṛhaspati (preceptor of the gods)

• abhāṣata: spoke, declared

• svasti: welfare, auspiciousness

• astu: may it be

• dānava-anīka(m): the army/host of the Dānavas (Asuras)

• uśanā: Uśanā/Śukra (preceptor of the Asuras)

• vākyam: statement, utterance

• ādade: took up, responded, spoke in return

Speaker

• Narrator (Purāṇic narration reporting the words of Bṛhaspati and Uśanā/Śukra)

Entities Mentioned

• Bṛhaspati
• Uśanā (Śukra)
• Devas
• Dānavas

Tags

• Devāsura
• Benediction
• Dialogue
• Peace-formula
• Dharma

FAQs

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

This verse does not discuss pralaya; it highlights a formal exchange of auspicious benedictions between rival camps, emphasizing order and restraint rather than cosmic dissolution.

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

It models dhārmic speech: even amid rivalry, one should speak words that preserve social stability and goodwill—an ideal for kings (statecraft and diplomacy) and householders (non-hostile conduct and auspicious speech).

What is the architectural or ritual significance mentioned here?

The phrase “svasty astu” is a ritual benediction used in auspicious openings and formal proclamations; while not a Vāstu rule, it aligns with the Purāṇic practice of beginning rites and assemblies with blessings for well-being.