Shloka 1.2.20

द्वितीयः सर्गः — श्लोकप्रादुर्भावः (The Manifestation of the Śloka)

Devanagari script

सोऽभिषेकं तत: कृत्वा तीर्थे तस्मिन्यथाविधि ।तमेव चिन्तयन्नर्थमुपावर्तत वै मुनि: ।।1.2.20।।

Transliteration

so ’bhiṣekaṃ tataḥ kṛtvā tīrthe tasmin yathāvidhi | tam eva cintayann artham upāvartata vai muniḥ ||1.2.20||

Translation

After performing his ritual bathing at that sacred ford according to rule, the sage returned, still pondering that very matter.

Context

After having performed his ablution at that holy spot according to the prescribed ritual, the sage (Valmiki) returned (to his hermitage), pondering over the matter.

Characters & Entities

• Vālmīki
• tīrtha (sacred ford)

FAQs

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

Dharma includes both outward discipline (performing rites properly) and inward moral contemplation—reflecting on wrongdoing and suffering to discern truth (satya) and right action.

What is the narrative situation?

Following the riverbank incident, Vālmīki completes his ablutions and returns to the hermitage while mentally dwelling on what occurred.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Vālmīki’s conscientiousness: he observes prescribed conduct and also engages in serious ethical reflection.