Shloka 1.52.6

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

Devanagari script

सुखोपविष्टं राजानं विश्वामित्रं महातपा:।पप्रच्छ जपतां श्रेष्ठो वसिष्ठो ब्रह्मणस्सुत:।।।।

Transliteration

rasenānnena pānena lehyacoṣyeṇa saṃyutam |

annānāṃ nicayaṃ sarvaṃ sṛjasva śabale tvara ||

Translation

“O Śabalā, make haste and bring forth the entire abundance of foods—solid dishes and savory preparations, drinks, and items to be licked or sipped—fully provided in every form.”

Context

Vasishta, son of Brahma, the greatest among those who recite prayers and possess rich asceticism enquired of king Viswamitra comfortably seated (before him):

Characters & Entities

• Vasiṣṭha
• Śabalā (Kāmadhenu)

FAQs

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

Service as dharma: honoring guests through prompt, complete provisioning—dharma is expressed through timely, practical care.

What is the narrative situation?

Vasiṣṭha instructs Śabalā to manifest an entire feast in multiple culinary forms for the visiting party.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Diligence and completeness in duty—hospitality is carried out thoroughly, not partially.