Shloka 1.56.20

बालकाण्ड ५६: विश्वामित्र–वसिष्ठ अस्त्रसंघर्षः (Visvamitra and Vasistha: Contest of Divine Weapons)

Devanagari script

ततोऽस्तुवन् मुनिगणा वसिष्ठं जपतां वरम्।अमोघं ते बलं ब्रह्मन् तेजो धारय तेजसा।।।।

Transliteration

kṣatrabandho sthito ’smy eṣa yad balaṃ tad vidarśaya |

nāśayāmy adya te darpaṃ śastrasya tava gādhija ||

Translation

“O disgrace to the kṣatriya order, here I stand. Show whatever strength you have. Today I shall shatter the pride you place in your weapons, O son of Gādhi.”

Context

Then hosts of saints praised Vasishta, the best among sages, saying "O! Brahmin, your energy is infallible, hold your energy by your enegy".

Characters & Entities

• Vasiṣṭha
• Viśvāmitra
• Gādhi

FAQs

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

The verse contrasts mere martial pride with the higher discipline of spiritual power; Dharma cautions against arrogance rooted in force and weaponry.

What is the narrative situation?

Vasiṣṭha confronts Viśvāmitra during their conflict and challenges him to display his strength, declaring he will humble his pride.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Vasiṣṭha’s fearless authority grounded in tapas (ascetic power) and conviction in the supremacy of brahminical restraint over aggression.