Shloka 1.8.15
अष्टमः सर्गः — Daśaratha Resolves on the Aśvamedha (Horse-Sacrifice) for Progeny
सरय्वाश्चोत्तरे तीरे यज्ञभूमिर्विधीयताम्।शान्तयश्चाभिवर्धन्तां यथाकल्पं यथाविधि।।।।
sambhārāḥ sambhriyantāṁ me gurūṇāṁ vacanād iha |
samarthādhiṣṭhitaś cāśvaḥ sopādhyāyo vimucyatām ||
“Let the requisites for the rite be gathered here for me, in accordance with my preceptors’ words; and let the sacrificial horse—together with the supervising priests—be released, guarded by capable men.”
On the northern bank of Sarayu, a sacrificial pavillion be prepared according to the methods ordained in the 'Kalpa'. Auspicious rites be performed in accordance with the ordinance for its uninterrupted completion.
Dharma is adherence to proper authority and procedure: the king orders that the sacrifice be executed according to the gurus’ injunctions, with competent protection and oversight.
Daśaratha begins formal preparations for the Aśvamedha—gathering materials and releasing the consecrated horse under guard.
Discipline and accountability—he insists on qualified guardianship and fidelity to the preceptors’ directions.