Shloka 4.51.7
स्वयंप्रभा-प्रश्नोत्तरम् / Svayamprabha Explains the Golden Forest and Questions the Vanaras
पुष्पिताः फलवन्तश्च पुण्यास्सुरभिगन्धिनः।।4.51.6।।इमे जाम्बूनदमयाः पादपाः कस्य तेजसा।काञ्चनानि च पद्मानि जातानि विमले जले।।4.51.7।।कथं मत्स्याश्च सौवर्णा दृश्यन्ते सह कच्छपैः।आत्मानमनुभावं च कस्य चैतत्तपोबलम्।।4.51.8।।अजानतां न स्सर्वेषां सर्वमाख्यातुमर्हसि।
evam uktā hanumatā tāpasī dharmacāriṇī || 4.51.9 || pratyuvāca hanūmantaṃ sarvabhūtahite ratā |
Thus addressed by Hanuman, the female ascetic—steadfast in dharma and devoted to the welfare of all beings—replied to him.
'By whose prowess are these golden trees yielding sacred fragrant flowers and fruits? How are these golden lotuses created in the clear water? How is it that here are golden fishes and tortoises? Whose fruit of penance is this? Is it by your power? We do not know. You should tell all of us everything'.
Dharma as universal welfare (sarvabhūta-hita): righteousness is measured by compassion and benefit to all beings, not merely personal attainment.
After Hanuman’s questions, the text introduces the ascetic as dharma-abiding and benevolent, and notes that she begins her reply.
Compassionate righteousness—the ascetic’s identity is defined by dharma-practice and concern for all creatures.