Shloka 3.23.16

महोत्पात-लक्षणानि (Omens before Khara’s Assault)

Devanagari script

खरस्य च रथस्थस्य नर्दमानस्य धीमतः।।।।प्राकम्पत भुजस्सव्यस्स्वरश्चास्यावसज्जत।

Transliteration

kharasya ca rathasthasya nardamānasya dhīmataḥ |

prākampata bhujaḥ savyaḥ svaraś cāsyāvasajjata || 3.23.16 ||

Translation

And for Khara—mounted on his chariot and roaring—his left arm trembled violently, and his voice faltered in his throat.

Context

While the intelligent and courageous Khara was seated on the chariot and shouting,his left shoulder shook violently and throat throttled.

Characters & Entities

• Khara
• chariot

FAQs

What is the core ethical principle (Dharma) in this verse?

Dharma teaches inner truthfulness: even when the mind boasts, the body can reveal fear and foreknowledge—an invitation to desist from wrongdoing before disaster.

What is the narrative situation?

As Khara advances loudly toward battle, bodily omens strike him—trembling and a failing voice—signaling imminent defeat.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Humility and self-correction: the moment calls for acknowledging warning signs and abandoning an unrighteous course.