Shloka 1.14.45

अश्वमेधप्रवृत्तिः — Commencement and Performance of Daśaratha’s Aśvamedha

Devanagari script

न भूम्या कार्यमस्माकं न हि शक्तास्स्म पालने।रतास्स्वाध्यायकरणे वयं नित्यं हि भूमिप।।।।निष्क्रयं किञ्चिदेवेह प्रयच्छतु भवानिति। 4

Transliteration

na bhūmyā kāryam asmākaṃ na hi śaktā sma pālane |

ratāḥ svādhyāyakaraṇe vayaṃ nityaṃ hi bhūmipa ||

niṣkrayaṃ kiñcid eveha prayacchatu bhavān iti |

Translation

“O ruler of the earth, we have no need of land, nor are we able to govern. Ever are we devoted to the study and practice of the Vedas. Therefore, please grant some other recompense here in exchange.”

Context

"O ruler of the earth! We are constantly engaged in the study of the Vedas. We are not capable of ruling the earth and we cannot do anything with its possession. Give some other charity in lieu of that.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Ṛtvij (priests)
• Veda (Svādhyāya)

FAQs

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

Dharma as proper role-alignment: priests uphold learning and ritual, while kings uphold protection and rule; each should not abandon their svadharma.

What is the narrative situation?

The priests explain why they cannot accept sovereignty/land and ask Daśaratha to substitute an appropriate material gift.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

The priests’ integrity and clarity about duty, and Daśaratha’s readiness to honor their rightful request.