Shloka 1.8.20

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

Devanagari script

तथा द्विजास्ते धर्मज्ञा वर्धयन्तो नृपोत्तमम्।अनुज्ञातास्ततस्सर्वे पुनर्जग्मुर्यथागतम्।।।।

Transliteration

tathā dvijāste dharmajñā vardhayanto nṛpottamam |

anujñātās tataḥ sarve punar jagmur yathāgatam ||

Translation

Thus those brahmins, knowers of dharma, having blessed the best of kings, took leave with his permission and returned by the way they had come.

Context

Bowing to this best of kings (Dasaratha), all the brahmins who were experts in austerities left all the knowledgeable brahmins as they came-with his permission.

Characters & Entities

• Brahmins (Dvijas)
• Daśaratha

FAQs

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

Dharma is mutual respect between ruler and spiritual authorities: blessings are offered, permission is sought, and departures occur with propriety.

What is the narrative situation?

After encouraging Daśaratha, the brahmins formally take leave and depart.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Decorum and dharmic social conduct—proper greetings, blessings, and sanctioned departure.