Shloka 2.5.23

अभिषेकोपवास-आदेशः (Coronation Preparations and the Fast Enjoined)

Devanagari script

तमागतमभिप्रेक्ष्य हित्वा राजासनं नृपः।पप्रच्छ स च तस्मै तत्कृतमित्यभ्यवेदयत्।।।।

Transliteration

upavāsayituṃ rāmaṃ mantravan mantrakovidaḥ |

brāhmaṃ rathavaraṃ yuktam āsthāya sudṛḍhavrataḥ ||

Translation

Skilled in mantras and steadfast in vow, he mounted a well-harnessed, brahmin-suited excellent chariot, intending—accompanied by sacred formulae—to have Rāma undertake the prescribed fast.

Context

On seeing Vasistha the king descended from the throne and enquired whether he had performed the mission to which the ascetic replied affirmatively.

Characters & Entities

• Vasiṣṭha
• Rāma
• Mantra (sacred formulae)
• Ratha (chariot)
• Upavāsa (fast)

FAQs

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

Dharma is disciplined preparation for sacred duty: fasting and mantra-guided rites cultivate purity, restraint, and truth-aligned intention before major life and state transitions.

What is the narrative situation?

Vasiṣṭha sets out with ritual readiness to instruct Rāma to observe a fast as part of the impending ceremonial proceedings.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Steadfast observance (vrata), ritual competence, and responsible guidance by a guru/priest are highlighted.