Shloka 8
Dhūpa–Dīpa–Bali Phala Praśna; Nahūṣa–Agastya–Bhṛgu Saṃvāda
Incense, Lamp, and Bali Offerings; the Nahūṣa Dialogue
सर्व तस्य गृहे राज्ञ: प्रावर्तत महात्मन: । जपयज्ञान्मनोयज्ञांस्त्रिदिवेषपि चकार स:
bhīṣma uvāca | sarvaṁ tasya gṛhe rājñaḥ prāvartata mahātmanaḥ | japayajñān manoyajñāṁs tridiveṣv api cakāra saḥ ||
Bhīṣma dit : «Dans la demeure de ce roi à l’âme grande, tous les rites et toutes les offrandes prescrits étaient entretenus sans relâche. Même en séjournant au ciel, il accomplissait encore les sacrifices de récitation (japa-yajña) et le sacrifice intérieur de l’esprit — un culte par la méditation disciplinée — montrant que le vrai dharma ne se soutient pas par le seul rite extérieur, mais par une dévotion constante et la maîtrise de soi.»
भीष्म उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights that dharma is upheld through both outer observances and inner discipline: japa (sacred recitation) and mano-yajña (mental/meditative offering). Even in heavenly enjoyment, sustained spiritual practice and self-regulation remain the mark of true nobility.
Bhishma describes the exemplary conduct associated with King Nahusha: in his household, rites and offerings were continuously maintained, and Nahusha himself continued performing japa-yajñas and mental worship even while in heaven, emphasizing continuity of religious practice beyond worldly circumstances.