Shloka 1.58.14

त्रिशङ्कुशापः — Trishanku’s Curse and Appeal to Viśvāmitra

Devanagari script

कारुण्यात्स महातेजा वाक्यं परमधार्मिक:।इदं जगाद भद्रं ते राजानं घोररूपिणम्।।।।

Transliteration

kāruṇyāt sa mahātejā vākyaṃ paramadhārmikaḥ |

idaṃ jagāda bhadraṃ te rājānaṃ ghora-rūpiṇam ||1.58.14||

Translation

Out of compassion, that mighty and supremely righteous sage spoke these words to the king, though terrible in appearance: “May it be well with you.”

Context

Exceedingly energetic and deeply pious, he looked at the king who was frightful in appearance and addressed him with compassion saying, "welfare to you".

Characters & Entities

• Viśvāmitra
• Triśaṅku

FAQs

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

Dharma is expressed through kind speech at the first moment of encounter—offering blessing and safety even to one who appears frightening or socially rejected.

What is the narrative situation?

Viśvāmitra, moved by pity, begins his conversation with the cursed Triśaṅku by offering a benevolent greeting.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Benevolence and fearlessness: addressing the ‘ghora-rūpin’ king with goodwill rather than aversion.