Shloka 1.8.9

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

Devanagari script

तदहं यष्टुमिच्छामि शास्त्रदृष्टेन कर्मणा।कथं प्राप्स्याम्यहं कामं बुद्धिरत्रविचार्यताम्।।।।

Transliteration

tad ahaṃ yaṣṭum icchāmi śāstradṛṣṭena karmaṇā | kathaṃ prāpsyāmy ahaṃ kāmaṃ buddhir atra vicāryatām ||

Translation

Therefore I wish to perform a sacrifice in the manner enjoined by the scriptures. How shall I attain my desired end in this matter? Let a wise course be deliberated here.

Context

Therefore, I intend to perform a horse-sacrifice in accordance with the scriptures. How can I fulfil my desire in this regard? You may deliberate and find a solution".

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• śāstra
• yajña (sacrifice)

FAQs

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

Dharma is shown as acting through śāstra-guided means: the king seeks a legitimate, prescribed path rather than an arbitrary or forceful solution to fulfill his desire.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha, yearning for progeny, turns to his advisers and expresses his intent to undertake a scripturally sanctioned sacrifice, asking for guidance on how it can succeed.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Humility and dharmic restraint: despite being a powerful king, he submits his personal wish to counsel and scriptural procedure.