Shloka 1.37.1

कुमारसम्भवः—गङ्गायां तेजोनिक्षेपः (The Birth of Kumāra/Skanda and the Deposition of Śiva’s Energy through Gaṅgā)

Devanagari script

तप्यमाने तपो देवे देवा: सर्षिगणा: पुरा।सेनापतिमभीप्सन्त: पितामहमुपागमन्।।1.37.1।।

Transliteration

tapyamāne tapo deve devāḥ sarṣigaṇāḥ purā | senāpatim abhīpsantaḥ pitāmaham upāgaman ||

Translation

In ancient times, when the Lord (Īśvara) was engaged in austerities, the gods—together with the hosts of ṛṣis—approached Pitāmaha (Brahmā), desiring a commander for the divine army.

Context

In olden days when Iswara was engaged in austerities, the devatas together with the ascetics, approached Lord Brahma for an army general.

Characters & Entities

• Īśvara (Śiva)
• Devas
• Ṛṣis
• Pitāmaha (Brahmā)

FAQs

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

Dharma includes safeguarding society through rightful leadership: the gods seek an authorized commander to preserve order rather than acting without structure.

What is the narrative situation?

While Śiva is in tapas, the gods and sages approach Brahmā to obtain a senāpati (divine commander).

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Respect for proper authority and procedure: approaching Brahmā reflects adherence to orderly decision-making.