Shloka 1.14.27
अश्वमेधप्रवृत्तिः — Commencement and Performance of Daśaratha’s Aśvamedha
सचित्यो राजसिंहस्य सञ्चित: कुशलैर्द्विजै:।गरुडो रुक्मपक्षो वै त्रिगुणोऽष्टादशात्मक:।।।।
sa-cityo rāja-siṃhasya sañcitaḥ kuśalair dvijaiḥ | garuḍo rukma-pakṣo vai triguṇo 'ṣṭādaśātmakaḥ ||
The altar of that lion among kings was built up by skilled twice-born priests: it was shaped like Garuḍa with golden wings, arranged in three tiers, comprising eighteen components.
That sacrificial altar of the lion among kings, (Dasaratha), erected by well-trained brahmins was in the shape of the golden winged 'Garuda' it had three ranges and thrice as many fire-places i.e; eighteen in number.
Dharma appears as ordered kingship and sacred responsibility: the king’s rite is executed by qualified experts, preserving truth to tradition and correct form.
The main altar (citya) for Daśaratha’s sacrifice is described—its form, symbolism, and structured arrangement.
Legitimate authority supported by learned counsel—royal action grounded in śāstric expertise.