Shloka 3.23.8

महोत्पात-लक्षणानि (Omens before Khara’s Assault)

Devanagari script

बभूव तिमिरं घोरमुद्धतं रोमहर्षणम्।दिशो वा विदिशो वापि न च व्यक्तं चकाशिरे।।।।

Transliteration

kṣatajārdrasa-varṇābhā sandhyākālaṃ vinā babhau | kharasyābhimukhā nedus tadā ghora-mṛgāḥ khagāḥ || kaṅka-gomāyu-gṛdhrāś ca cukruśur bhayaśaṃsinaḥ |

Translation

Even before twilight, a dusk appeared, the color of a fresh, wet wound. Then dreadful beasts and birds, facing Khara, cried out; kanka-birds, jackals, and vultures screeched, foretelling fear and disaster.

Context

A terrific darkness, spread all over, produced frightening horripilation. Even the four quarters and the intermediary zones were not discernible.

Characters & Entities

• Khara
• twilight (sandhyā)
• kanka birds
• jackals (gomāyu)
• vultures (gṛdhra)

FAQs

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

Satya (truth) is facing reality: the verse shows truth manifesting as unavoidable warning—violence initiated in adharma returns as fear and ruin.

What is the narrative situation?

As Khara’s aggression nears, nature displays severe omens: premature blood-colored dusk and animals crying toward him.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Accountability—recognizing that unrighteous intent draws consequences, and that warnings should prompt restraint and correction.