Shloka 1.14.19

अश्वमेधप्रवृत्तिः — Commencement and Performance of Daśaratha’s Aśvamedha

Devanagari script

नाषडङ्गविदत्रासीन्नाव्रतो नाबहुश्रुत:।सदस्यास्तस्य वै राज्ञो नावादकुशला द्विजा:।।।।

Transliteration

divase divase tatra saṁstare kuśalā dvijāḥ |

sarvakarmāṇi cakrus te yathāśāstraṁ pracoditāḥ ||

Translation

Day after day there, at the sacrificial session, skilled Brahmins—urged on by their guides—performed every rite in accordance with the śāstras.

Context

Here (in this sacrificial pavillion), there was none who was not versed in six Vedangas,not true to vows, not learned in many sastras nor adept in discussions (on sastras).

Characters & Entities

• Brahmins
• Śāstra (scriptural injunctions)
• Vasiṣṭha (implied by supplied word-meaning note)

FAQs

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

Dharma is adherence to right procedure and truthful tradition (yathāśāstram): sustained righteousness is maintained through consistent, rule-aligned action.

What is the narrative situation?

The sacrifice proceeds over multiple days; the officiants carry out all rites continuously and correctly under guidance.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Steadfast discipline and competence—skill joined with fidelity to authoritative instruction.