Shloka 1.66.19

शिवधनुर्न्यासकथा तथा सीतोत्पत्तिविवाहशुल्क-निश्चयः (The Bow of Śiva: Its Deposit, Sītā’s Origin, and the Prowess-Brideprice Vow)

Devanagari script

तेषां वीर्यवतां वीर्यमल्पं ज्ञात्वा महामुने ।प्रत्याख्याता नृपतयस्तन्निबोध तपोधन।।1.66.19।।

Transliteration

teṣāṁ jijñāsamānānāṁ vīryaṁ dhanur upāhṛtam |

na śekur grahaṇe tasya dhanuṣas tolane 'pi vā ||1.66.18||

Translation

As they sought to test their strength, the bow was brought forth; yet they could not even grasp it—much less lift it.

Context

O great ascetic! I knew those mighty kings had little strength, so rejected them.

Characters & Entities

• the bow (Śiva’s bow, dhanus)
• kings (nṛpa)

FAQs

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

True worth must match claim: dharma exposes hollow pride—titles and ambition do not substitute for real capability.

What is the narrative situation?

The assembled kings attempt the bow-test but fail even to grasp or lift the bow.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Implied lesson of humility—recognizing limits when confronted with a genuine standard.