Shloka 1.53.22

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

Devanagari script

एवमुक्तस्तु भगवान् विश्वामित्रेण धीमता। न दास्यामीति शबलां प्राह राजन् कथञ्चन।।1.53.22।।

Transliteration

evam uktas tu bhagavān viśvāmitreṇa dhīmatā | na dāsyāmīti śabalāṁ prāha rājan kathañcana || 1.53.22 ||

Translation

Thus addressed by the wise Viśvāmitra, the venerable one replied: “O King, I will not give Śabalā—by any means.”

Context

To these words of sagacious Viswamitra the adorable Vasishta replied: "O King! I shall not give Sabala."

Characters & Entities

• Vasiṣṭha
• Viśvāmitra
• Śabalā

FAQs

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

Satya and dharma as firmness: when something is integral to one’s rightful duty, one must refuse even powerful pressure or lavish offers.

What is the narrative situation?

After hearing escalating offers, Vasiṣṭha clearly rejects the transfer of Śabalā to Viśvāmitra.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Vasiṣṭha’s unwavering truthfulness and principled resolve.