Shloka 4.17.40

वालिवधः — Vālī’s Fall and Dharma-Accusation (Kiṣkindhā Sarga 17)

Devanagari script

तारया वाक्यमुक्तोऽहं सत्यं सर्वज्ञया हितम्।।तदतिक्रम्य मोहेन कालस्य वशमागतः।

Transliteration

tārayā vākyam ukto 'haṃ satyaṃ sarvajñayā hitam | tad atikramya mohena kālasya vaśam āgataḥ ||

Translation

Tārā, who knew the truth, spoke to me words that were true and for my welfare; yet, overriding them in delusion, I have come under the power of Time—Death.

Context

'Tara knew everything. Her words were correct. They were meant for my well-being. However, due to my ignorance (or arrogance), I did not heed her words and fell under the sway of the lord of death;

Characters & Entities

• Vāli
• Tārā
• Kāla (Time/Death)

FAQs

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

Dharma includes heeding truthful, well-intended counsel; rejecting satya-hita advice due to delusion leads to ruin and suffering.

What is the narrative situation?

As he nears death, Vāli acknowledges that Tārā warned him for his good, but he ignored her and thus met his end.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Wisdom through receptivity—valuing good counsel and overcoming moha (delusion/pride).