Shloka 1.53.1

शबलाप्रार्थना–वसिष्ठप्रतिज्ञा (The Request for Śabalā and Vasiṣṭha’s Refusal)

Devanagari script

एवमुक्ता वसिष्ठेन शबला शत्रुसूदन।विदधे कामधुक्कामान्यस्य यस्य यथेप्सितम्।।1.53.1।।

Transliteration

evam uktā vasiṣṭhena śabalā śatrusūdana | vidadhe kāmadhuk kāmān yasya yasya yathepsitam ||

Translation

Thus addressed by Vasiṣṭha, Śabalā—the wish-fulfilling cow—bestowed upon each person whatever was desired, exactly as each one wished.

Context

"O Destroyer of foes (Rama)"! addressed thus by Vasishta the wish-fulfilling Sabala satisfied each one's desires.

Characters & Entities

• Vasiṣṭha
• Śabalā (Kāmadhenu)

FAQs

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

Dharma upheld through sacred stewardship: divine resources (like Śabalā) serve righteous purposes when guided by a dharmic guardian (Vasiṣṭha).

What is the narrative situation?

Śabalā manifests provisions and fulfillments at Vasiṣṭha’s command, demonstrating her extraordinary, ritual-linked power.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Vasiṣṭha’s spiritual authority and disciplined use of power—commanding abundance without greed or misuse.