Shloka 1.53.10

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

Devanagari script

एवमुक्तस्तु भगवान्वसिष्ठो मुनिसत्तम:।विश्वामित्रेण धर्मात्मा प्रत्युवाच महीपतिम्।।1.53.10।।

Transliteration

evam uktas tu bhagavān vasiṣṭho munisattamaḥ | viśvāmitreṇa dharmātmā pratyuvāca mahīpatim ||

Translation

When Viśvāmitra spoke thus, the revered Vasiṣṭha—foremost among sages and steadfast in dharma—replied to the king.

Context

Addressed the by Viswamitra venerable and righteous Vasishta who was of the earth ascetic replied:

Characters & Entities

• Vasiṣṭha
• Viśvāmitra

FAQs

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

Dharma as moral authority: Vasiṣṭha’s reply is framed as dharmic counsel, implying that power and possession must be governed by righteousness, not coercion.

What is the narrative situation?

After Viśvāmitra’s demand regarding Śabalā, Vasiṣṭha prepares to respond, marking the escalation of their dispute.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Vasiṣṭha’s steadiness in dharma—measured response and principled speech in the face of pressure.