Shloka 1.12.14

द्वादशः सर्गः — Aśvamedha-saṅkalpa (Daśaratha resolves on the Horse Sacrifice)

Devanagari script

गुरूणां वचनाच्छीघ्रं सम्भारास्सम्भ्रियन्तु मे।समर्थाधिष्ठितश्चाश्वस्सोपाध्यायो विमुच्यताम्।।।।

Transliteration

gurūṇāṃ vacanāc chīghraṃ sambhārāḥ sambhriyantu me | samarthādhiṣṭhitaś cāśvaḥ sopādhyāyo vimucyatām ||

Translation

“In obedience to my teachers’ instructions, let the required sacrificial materials be gathered at once; and let the horse be released—guarded by capable warriors and accompanied by the chief priest.”

Context

"In accordance with the instructions by my spiritual preceptors let the articles (required for performing the sacrifice) be procured and the horse released under the protection of warriors accompanied by the chief priest".

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• gurus (spiritual preceptors)
• aśva (Aśvamedha horse)
• upādhyāya (chief priest)
• warriors/guards

FAQs

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

Dharma here is obedience to rightful authority and scriptural guidance: the king acts in accordance with his gurus’ injunctions and ensures the rite is conducted responsibly and safely.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha issues practical orders for initiating the sacrificial proceedings, including gathering materials and releasing the consecrated horse under protection.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Humility and discipline: the king follows the counsel of spiritual elders and arranges the rite with vigilance and due care.