Shloka 1.8.16

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

Devanagari script

शक्य: प्राप्तुमयं यज्ञस्सर्वेणापि महीक्षिता।नापराधो भवेत्कष्टो यद्यस्मिन्क्रतुसत्तमे।।।।

Transliteration

sarayvāś cottare tīre yajñabhūmir vidhīyatām |

śāntayaś cābhivardhantāṁ yathākalpaṁ yathāvidhi ||

Translation

Let the sacrificial ground be laid out on the northern bank of the Sarayū; and let the pacificatory rites be increased and performed according to the Kalpa rules and due ordinance.

Context

If obstructions and omissions do not occur in the conduct of this best of sacrifices, it will be possible for every king to get the results.

Characters & Entities

• Sarayū river
• Yajñabhūmi (sacrificial ground)
• Kalpa (ritual code)
• Śānti rites

FAQs

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

Dharma is careful observance of prescribed rites and safeguards—right action includes right method, right place, and right pacification to prevent harm.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha specifies the location and ritual protocol for constructing and sanctifying the Aśvamedha venue.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Reverence for śāstra and thoroughness—he stresses Kalpa conformity and protective rites.