Shloka 1.14.54

अश्वमेधप्रवृत्तिः — Commencement and Performance of Daśaratha’s Aśvamedha

Devanagari script

तस्याशिषोऽथ विधिवद्ब्राह्मणैस्समुदीरिता:।उदारस्य नृवीरस्य धरण्यां प्रणतस्य च ।।।।

Transliteration

tasyāśiṣo ’tha vidhivad brāhmaṇaiḥ samudīritāḥ | udārasya nṛvīrasya dharaṇyāṃ praṇatasya ca ||

Translation

Thereupon, as that generous hero among men lay prostrate upon the earth, the brāhmaṇas duly pronounced blessings for him according to the rite.

Context

Brahmins uttered blessings upon the generous king when he prostrated before themaccording to procedure.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Brāhmaṇas
• Dharaṇī (earth/ground, as locus of prostration)

FAQs

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

Reciprocity within dharma: humility and proper conduct invite rightful blessings; social-spiritual order is maintained through vidhivat (rule-based) action.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha prostrates himself; the brāhmaṇas respond by formally pronouncing blessings.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Reverent submission to dharma—Daśaratha’s prostration reflects disciplined respect rather than mere royal pride.