Shloka 1.8.25

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

Devanagari script

सुयज्ञं वामदेवं च जाबालिमथ काश्यपम्।

परोहितं वसिष्ठं च ये चान्ये द्विजसत्तमाः।।

Transliteration

suyajñaṃ vāmadevaṃ ca jābālim atha kāśyapam |

parohitaṃ vasiṣṭhaṃ ca ye cānye dvija-sattamāḥ ||

Translation

He summoned Suyajña, Vāmadeva, Jābāli, Kāśyapa, and Vasiṣṭha the royal priest, along with other foremost Brahmins as well.

Characters & Entities

• Sumantra
• Suyajña
• Vāmadeva
• Jābāli
• Kāśyapa
• Vasiṣṭha
• Brahmins (dvija)

FAQs

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

Dharma in public rites depends on qualified officiants—learned, reputable Brahmins—ensuring the ritual is legitimate and beneficial.

What is the narrative situation?

The text enumerates the eminent sages and priests assembled for Daśaratha’s sacrificial undertaking.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Institutional virtue: honoring learning and lineage by appointing the most competent spiritual authorities.