Shloka 1.16.1

पायसप्रादुर्भावः — The Manifestation of the Divine Payasa and the Avatara Resolution

Devanagari script

ततो नारायणो देवो नियुक्तस्सुरसत्तमै:।जानन्नपि सुरानेवं श्लक्ष्णं वचनमब्रवीत्।।।।

Transliteration

tato nārāyaṇo devo niyuktaḥ surasattamaiḥ |

jānann api surān evaṃ ślakṣṇaṃ vacanam abravīt ||1.16.1||

Translation

Then Lord Nārāyaṇa, requested by the foremost of the gods—though he already knew—spoke to them in gentle words.

Context

Although Omniscient lord Narayana knew the means to be employed, when he was requested by the best of devatas he spoke to them softly:

Characters & Entities

• Narayana
• Devas

FAQs

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

True authority expresses itself with gentleness and clarity; dharma-oriented leadership responds to suffering without harshness, even when the solution is already known.

What is the narrative situation?

After the gods’ appeal, Nārāyaṇa is approached and he responds calmly, initiating the divine plan that will culminate in incarnation.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Compassionate speech and composure—responding to crisis with measured, soothing counsel.