Shloka 1.64.8

रम्भा-प्रलोभनम् — Rambhā’s Temptation and Viśvāmitra’s Curse

Devanagari script

सा श्रुत्वा वचनं तस्य कृत्वा रूपमनुत्तमम्।लोभयामास ललिता विश्वामित्रं शुचिस्मिता।।1.64.8।।

Transliteration

evaṃ varṣasahasrasya dīkṣāṃ sa munipuṅgavaḥ || 1.64.20 ||

cakārāpratimāṃ loke pratijñāṃ raghunandana |

Translation

O Raghunandana, thus the foremost of sages undertook in this world an unparalleled vow—an austere consecrated observance for a thousand years.

Context

At these words (of Indra), Rambha, assumed any form of excellent beauty and with a bright smile set out to allure Viswamitra.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma (Raghunandana)
• Viśvāmitra (munipuṅgava)

FAQs

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

Steadfastness to a righteous vow: dharma is upheld through long endurance, disciplined practice, and fidelity to one’s solemn resolve (pratijñā), sustained by satya (truthfulness to one’s word).

What is the narrative situation?

After the episode of attempted distraction, the sage recommits himself and undertakes a thousand-year observance—marking the chapter’s conclusion.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Perseverance and vow-keeping—unshaken commitment to tapas over immense time—are emphasized as the defining strength of the sage.