Shloka 1.53.12

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

Devanagari script

न परित्यागमर्हेयं मत्सकाशादरिन्दम ।शाश्वती शबला मह्यं कीर्तिरात्मवतो यथा।।1.53.12।।

Transliteration

na parityāgam arheyam matsakāśād arindama | śāśvatī śabalā mahyaṃ kīrtir ātmavato yathā ||

Translation

O subduer of foes, it is not right that she be separated from my care; for me Śabalā is enduring, as fame is inseparable from a self-controlled and righteous person.

Context

O Suppressor of enemies Viswamitra it is not proper to separate this cow from me. The relationship between Sabala and me is permanent like the relationship between a righteous man and his fame.

Characters & Entities

• Vasiṣṭha
• Viśvāmitra
• Śabalā

FAQs

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

Dharma as faithful guardianship: what is entrusted for sacred duty should not be relinquished under pressure or temptation.

What is the narrative situation?

Vasiṣṭha justifies his refusal by stating that Śabalā’s bond with him is enduring and dharmically grounded.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Steadfastness (dhṛti) and self-mastery: Vasiṣṭha frames the relationship in moral terms, not material ones.