Shloka 1.37.4

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

Devanagari script

यदत्रानन्तरं कार्यं लोकानां हितकाम्यया।संविधत्स्व विधानज्ञ त्वं हि न: परमा गति:।।1.37.4।।

Transliteration

yad atrānantaraṁ kāryaṁ lokānāṁ hita-kāmyayā |

saṁvidhatsva vidhānajña tvaṁ hi naḥ paramā gatiḥ || 1.37.4 ||

Translation

Therefore, O knower of righteous ordinance, ordain what should be done next, seeking the welfare of the worlds—for you are truly our highest refuge.

Context

"O Knower of law and order! O Grandsire! verily you are our supreme refuge committed to the welfare of the worlds. Tell us what we should do in this matter (now that we cannot procreate a general on account of Uma's curse)".

Characters & Entities

• Devāḥ
• Brahmā
• Lokāḥ (worlds)

FAQs

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

Dharma is loka-hita (welfare of the worlds) pursued through proper counsel: the devas seek a lawful, welfare-oriented solution from the competent authority.

What is the narrative situation?

Facing a crisis in appointing/producing a commander, the devas ask Brahmā to decide the next action for the good of all worlds.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Humility and procedural righteousness: rather than acting unilaterally, the devas submit to Brahmā’s judgment.