Shloka 1.46.22

दितितपः-शक्रपरिचर्या-गर्भभेदः (Diti’s Penance, Indra’s Service, and the Severing of the Embryo)

Devanagari script

प्राञ्जलिर्वज्रसहितो दितिं शक्रोऽभ्यभाषत।अशुचिर्देवि सुप्ताऽसि पादयो: कृतमूर्धजा।।1.46.22।।

Transliteration

tad antaram ahaṃ labdhvā śakra-hantāram āhave | abhidaṃ saptadhā devi tan me tvaṃ kṣantum arhasi || 1.46.23 ||

Translation

“Seizing that opportunity, O Goddess, I cut into seven parts the one who was to become Indra’s slayer in battle; therefore you should forgive me,” said Indra.

Context

Armed with Vajra, Indra addressed Diti with folded palms, saying, "O Devi! you have slept, with your head towards your feet and your hair falling on your feet".

Characters & Entities

• Śakra (Indra)
• Diti
• Āhava (battle)
• Garbha (implied)

FAQs

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

Seeking forgiveness after a harmful act acknowledges moral order, yet dharma also questions whether fear-based harm can be justified; the verse invites reflection on confession, responsibility, and reconciliation.

What is the narrative situation?

Indra explains he exploited Diti’s lapse, destroyed the future threat, and asks her pardon.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Truth-telling/confession (satya as admission) is shown, alongside the ethical complexity of repentance after irreversible harm.