Shloka 1.14.56

अश्वमेधप्रवृत्तिः — Commencement and Performance of Daśaratha’s Aśvamedha

Devanagari script

ततोऽब्रवीदृश्यशृङ्गं राजा दशरथस्तदा।कुलस्य वर्धनं त्वं तु कर्तुमर्हसि सुव्रत।।।।

Transliteration

tato ’bravīd ṛśyaśṛṅgaṃ rājā daśarathas tadā | kulasya vardhanaṃ tvaṃ tu kartum arhasi suvrata ||

Translation

Then King Daśaratha spoke to Ṛṣyaśṛṅga: “O you of steadfast vows, you are indeed fit to bring about the increase and continuance of my lineage.”

Context

King Dasaratha then addressing Rsyasringa said "O Adherent of vows! you can help the continuity of my race".

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Ṛṣyaśṛṅga
• Kula (dynasty/lineage)

FAQs

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

Kula-dharma and responsibility: continuity of a righteous lineage is treated as a legitimate royal concern, to be pursued through lawful, vow-guided means.

What is the narrative situation?

After the sacrifice, Daśaratha directly addresses Ṛṣyaśṛṅga, seeking his aid/blessing for the continuation of the royal line.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Reverence for ascetic authority—Daśaratha acknowledges Ṛṣyaśṛṅga’s vow-power and ritual competence.