Shloka 3
सो5भिगम्य यथान्यायं नागायतनमर्थवित् | प्रोक्ततानहमस्मीति भो:शब्दालंकृतं वच:
so 'bhigamya yathānyāyaṃ nāgāyatanam arthavit | proktatān aham asmīti bhoḥ-śabdālaṅkṛtaṃ vacaḥ ||
Dijo Bhīṣma: Comprendiendo con claridad su propósito, el sabio avanzó conforme al debido proceder y llegó a la morada del Nāga. Al arribar al umbral, llamó con palabras corteses, adornadas con el respetuoso tratamiento “bhoḥ”, diciendo: «He venido; estoy a la puerta».
भीष्म उवाच
Educational Q&A
Even when pursuing one’s goal, one should act yathā-nyāyam—according to propriety—and use respectful speech. Dharma is expressed not only in major vows but also in correct approach, courteous address, and disciplined communication.
A discerning brāhmaṇa, intent on his purpose, travels to the Nāga’s residence. Reaching the door, he announces his presence politely, using the respectful vocative “bhoḥ,” indicating a formal, non-hostile request for attention and entry.