Shloka 1.53.16

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

Devanagari script

वसिष्ठेनैवमुक्तस्तु विश्वामित्रोऽब्रवीत्तत:।संरब्धतरमत्यर्थं वाक्यं वाक्यविशारद:।।1.53.16।।

Transliteration

vasiṣṭhenaivam uktas tu viśvāmitro ’bravīt tataḥ | saṃrabdhataraṃ atyarthaṃ vākyaṃ vākyaviśāradaḥ ||

Translation

When Vasiṣṭha spoke in this way, Viśvāmitra—skilled in speech—then replied with words of extreme and heightened anger.

Context

To there words of Vasishta, Viswamitra who is skilful in conversation reacted with extreme excitement:

Characters & Entities

• Vasiṣṭha
• Viśvāmitra
• Śabalā

FAQs

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

A warning about krodha: even eloquence becomes ethically harmful when driven by anger; dharma requires restraint, especially in conflict.

What is the narrative situation?

Following Vasiṣṭha’s firm refusal, Viśvāmitra reacts angrily, signaling the impending confrontation over Śabalā.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

By contrast, restraint is highlighted: the verse foregrounds Viśvāmitra’s agitation, implying the dharmic value of self-control.