Shloka 1.18.42

पुत्रजन्मोत्सवः — Birth of the Princes and Viśvāmitra’s Arrival (Bālakāṇḍa 18)

Devanagari script

तं दृष्ट्वा ज्वलितं दीप्त्या तापसं संशितव्रतम्।।।।प्रहृष्टवदनो राजा ततोऽर्घ्यमुपहारयत्।

Transliteration

taṃ dṛṣṭvā jvalitaṃ dīptyā tāpasaṃ saṃśitavratam | prahṛṣṭavadano rājā tato 'rghyam upahārayat ||

Translation

Seeing the ascetic—radiant with spiritual brilliance and firm in his vows—the king, his face bright with joy, offered him the arghya of honor.

Context

Seeing Viswamitra, shining with the power of his penance fulfilled the king with a cheerful countenance made offerings with due respect.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Viśvāmitra
• arghya (honor-offering)

FAQs

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

Atithi-dharma (hospitality to a worthy guest): the king honors a sage through proper offerings, aligning royal conduct with sacred custom.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha meets Viśvāmitra and performs the initial act of respectful reception by offering arghya.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Reverence and self-restraint—Daśaratha responds to spiritual greatness with respectful action rather than mere words.