Shloka 1.8.1

अष्टमः सर्गः — Daśaratha Resolves on the Aśvamedha (Horse-Sacrifice) for Progeny

Devanagari script

तस्य त्वेवं प्रभावस्य धर्मज्ञस्य महात्मन:।सुतार्थं तप्यमानस्य नासीद्वंशकरस्सुत:।।।।

Transliteration

tasya tv evaṃ prabhāvasya dharmajñasya mahātmanaḥ | sutārthaṃ tapyamānasya nāsīd vaṃśakaraḥ sutaḥ || 1.8.1 ||

Translation

Though he was so mighty, righteous, and great-souled, and though he undertook austerities for the sake of a son, he did not obtain an heir who could continue the dynasty.

Context

Such a majestic, righteous, and magnaninous king had no son to perpetuate the race even though he performed austerities for one.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• lineage/dynasty (vaṃśa)

FAQs

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

Gṛhastha-dharma and royal duty include ensuring continuity of righteous governance through an heir; the verse frames the absence of an heir as a significant dharmic concern.

What is the narrative situation?

The text introduces Daśaratha’s problem: despite merit and austerities, he lacks a son to carry forward the dynasty.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Perseverance and dharma-consciousness—Daśaratha seeks a solution through religious discipline rather than impulsive action.