Shloka 1.38.12

सगरस्य पुत्रलाभः — Sagara’s Boons, Progeny, and the Rise of the Sixty Thousand

Devanagari script

एको वंशकरो वाऽस्तु बहवो वा महाबला:।कीर्तिमन्तो महोत्साहा: का वा कं वरमिच्छति।।।।

Transliteration

eko vaṃśa-karo vā ’stu bahavo vā mahā-balāḥ | kīrtimanto mahotsāhāḥ kā vā kaṃ varam icchati || 1.38.12 ||

Translation

He said: “Would you prefer one son who continues the lineage, or many sons—mighty, renowned, and of great enterprise? Which of you chooses which boon?”

Context

'What would you wish? One son who perpetuates the race or many possessed of mighty strength endowed with fame and perseverance?' (asked Bhrugu).

Characters & Entities

• Bhṛgu
• Vaṃśa (dynasty/lineage)
• Keśinī
• Sumatī

FAQs

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

Prioritizing rightful ends: sustaining a righteous lineage (vaṃśa) is presented as a distinct dharmic good alongside power and fame.

What is the narrative situation?

Bhṛgu frames the options of the boon so the queens can decide between a single dynastic heir or many powerful sons.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Prudence in choosing: the verse highlights discernment between quantity of power and continuity of rightful succession.