Shloka 1.52.3

वसिष्ठ-आतिथ्यं (Vasiṣṭha’s Hospitality to Viśvāmitra and the Summoning of Śabalā/Kāmadhenu)

Devanagari script

उपविष्टाय च तदा विश्वामित्राय धीमते।यथान्यायं मुनिवर: फलमूलमुपाहरत्।।।।

Transliteration

evam ukto mahātejā vasiṣṭho japatāṃ varaḥ |

ājuhāva tataḥ prītaḥ kalmāṣīṃ dhūtakalmaṣaḥ ||

Translation

Thus addressed, Vasiṣṭha—radiant, foremost among those devoted to sacred recitation, and purified of all stain—was pleased; and then he called the speckled cow (Śabalā/Kalmāṣī).

Context

With the sagacious Viswamitra seated the great ascetic, duly offered him fruits and roots.

Characters & Entities

• Vasiṣṭha
• Śabalā (Kalmāṣī/Kāmadhenu)

FAQs

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

Hospitality supported by spiritual power: dharma is not only intention but also capability used rightly—Vasiṣṭha prepares to honor a guest fully.

What is the narrative situation?

After the exchange of courtesies, Vasiṣṭha decides to arrange a grand reception and summons the miraculous cow.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Vasiṣṭha’s generosity and purity—his ascetic merit is employed to serve dharma (guest-honor).