Shloka 1.53.19

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

Devanagari script

हयानां देशजातानां कुलजानां महौजसाम्।सहस्रमेकं दश च ददामि तव सुव्रत।।1.53.19।।

Transliteration

hayānāṁ deśajātānāṁ kulajānāṁ mahaujasām | sahasram ekaṁ daśa ca dadāmi tava suvrata || 1.53.19 ||

Translation

O sage of noble vows, I shall give you eleven thousand powerful horses, well-bred and born in excellent lands.

Context

O Maharshi of auspicious vows! I shall give you eleven thousand mighty horses of good breed born in good countries.

Characters & Entities

• Horses (haya)

FAQs

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

Dharma is tested when desire seeks to convert the priceless into a price; the narrative invites reflection on whether certain sacred or essential goods can be ethically exchanged.

What is the narrative situation?

Continuing his persuasion, Viśvāmitra offers an immense number of superior horses to Vasiṣṭha.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Viśvāmitra’s determination and worldly resourcefulness are emphasized, soon to be checked by Vasiṣṭha’s steadfastness in truth and rightful possession.