Shloka 1.41.18

अंशुमान्—अश्वान्वेषणम्, दिशागजसंवादः, कपिलदाहवृत्तान्तः, गङ्गोपदेशः (Anshuman’s Search for the Horse and the Counsel to Bring Ganga)

Devanagari script

कपिलेनाप्रमेयेन दग्धा हीमे महाबला:।सलिलं नार्हसि प्राज्ञ दातुमेषां हि लौकिकम्।।।।

Transliteration

kapilenāprameyena dagdhā hīme mahābalāḥ | salilaṃ nārhasi prājña dātum eṣāṃ hi laukikam ||

Translation

“These mighty ones have indeed been burnt by Kapila of immeasurable power; therefore, O wise one, it is not fitting for you to offer them ordinary, worldly water.”

Context

'Your valiant uncles have been burnt by Kapila of boundless power. O Sagcious one! performing traditional rites with ordinary water is not proper'.

Characters & Entities

• Kapila
• Garuḍa
• Anśumān
• the princes (burnt ones)

FAQs

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

Dharma requires appropriateness (aucitya) in rites: intention alone is not enough; the means must match the situation and scriptural-cosmic requirement.

What is the narrative situation?

Garuḍa explains that since the princes were reduced to ashes by Kapila’s power, ordinary water-offerings are insufficient.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Wisdom guided by instruction—Anśumān is urged to align devotion with correct practice.