Shloka 1.56.4

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

Devanagari script

क्व च ते क्षत्रियबलं क्व च ब्रह्मबलं महत्।पश्य ब्रह्मबलं दिव्यं मम क्षत्रियपांसन।।।।

Transliteration

nigṛhītas tvayā brahman viśvāmitro mahātapāḥ |

prasīda japatāṃ śreṣṭha lokāḥ santu gatavyathāḥ ||

Translation

O Brahmin, by you the great ascetic Viśvāmitra has been subdued. Be gracious, O best among those devoted to japa; let the worlds be free from distress.

Context

O mean kshatriya! where does your energy of a kshatriya stand in comparison with the great energy of Brahma? Behold my Brahmabala (Brahman's energy)".

Characters & Entities

• Vasiṣṭha
• Viśvāmitra
• Munigaṇa
• Lokāḥ (worlds)

FAQs

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

Dharma requires compassion after victory; the purpose of restraint is the welfare of the worlds, not the humiliation of an opponent.

What is the narrative situation?

The sages acknowledge Viśvāmitra’s defeat and ask Vasiṣṭha to calm down so cosmic order and peace are restored.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Dayā (mercy) joined with self-control—ending conflict without further harm.