Shloka 1.54.1

शबलाहरणम् — The Attempted Seizure of Sabalā (Kāmadhenu) and the Triumph of Brahmic Power

Devanagari script

कामधेनुं वसिष्ठोऽपि यदा न त्यज्यते मुनि:।तदास्य शबलां राम विश्वामित्रोऽन्वकर्षत।।।।

Transliteration

kāmadhenuṃ vasiṣṭho 'pi yadā na tyajyate muniḥ |

tadā asya śabalāṃ rāma viśvāmitro 'nvakarṣata || 1.54.1 ||

Translation

O Rāma, when the sage Vasiṣṭha would not relinquish the wish-fulfilling cow, then Viśvāmitra dragged Śabalā away by force.

Context

"O Rama! when sage Vasishta did not consent to part with the wish-fulfilling cow, Viswamitra dragged Sabala by force.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Viśvāmitra
• Vasiṣṭha
• Śabalā
• Kāmadhenu

FAQs

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

It condemns coercion: taking by force what is not rightfully given violates dharma, even if done by a king.

What is the narrative situation?

After refusal, Viśvāmitra escalates from request to force, initiating open conflict.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Vasiṣṭha’s steadfastness in protecting rightful possession; Viśvāmitra’s lack of restraint is exposed.