Shloka 1.8.14

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

Devanagari script

सम्भारास्सम्भ्रियन्तां मे गुरूणां वचनादिह।समर्थाधिष्ठितश्चाश्वस्सोपाध्यायो विमुच्यताम्।।।।

Transliteration

tataḥ prīto 'bhavad rājā śrutvā tad dvijabhāṣitam |

amātyāṁś cābravīd rājā harṣaparyākulekṣaṇaḥ ||

Translation

Then the king, pleased on hearing the words spoken by the brahmins, addressed his ministers—his eyes unsteady with joy.

Context

"Let the articles required (for performing the sacrifice) be procured in accordance with the words of my spiritual preceptors and the horse be released under the protection of able men.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Brahmins (Dvijas)
• Ministers (Amātyas)

FAQs

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

Dharma is shown as receptivity to righteous counsel: a ruler honors learned guidance and then responsibly communicates with his administration.

What is the narrative situation?

After hearing the brahmins’ advice/assurance about the sacrifice, Daśaratha becomes delighted and turns to instruct his ministers.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Humility before wisdom and administrative readiness—he values the brahmins’ words and promptly acts through his ministers.