Shloka 1.58.4

त्रिशङ्कुशापः — Trishanku’s Curse and Appeal to Viśvāmitra

Devanagari script

अशक्यमिति चोवाच वसिष्ठो भगवानृषि:।तं वयं वै समाहर्तुं क्रतुं शक्ता:कथं तव।।।।

Transliteration

aśakyam iti covāca vasiṣṭho bhagavān ṛṣiḥ |

taṃ vayaṃ vai samāhartuṃ kratuṃ śaktāḥ kathaṃ tava ||

Translation

When the revered sage Vasiṣṭha has said, ‘It is impossible,’ how could we have the power to carry out such a sacrifice for you?

Context

When an adorable sage like Vasishta has already said, it is not possible, how can we help you conduct such a sacrifice?

Characters & Entities

• Vasiṣṭha
• ṛṣi (sage)
• kratu (sacrifice)

FAQs

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

Dharma is deference to rightful spiritual authority: if the qualified preceptor declares an act adharma or unfeasible, juniors should not override that judgment.

What is the narrative situation?

After Vasiṣṭha refuses the king’s request, the king approaches Vasiṣṭha’s sons; they refuse, citing Vasiṣṭha’s definitive verdict.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Obedience to the guru’s decision and restraint from undertaking a rite that violates established limits.