Shloka 11
लुब्धक-कपोत-कपोती-आख्यानम्
The Hunter and the Pigeon Couple: Expiation and Refuge-Ethics
सा हि श्रान्तं क्षुधार्त च जानीते मां तपस्विनी । अनुरक्ता स्थिरा चैव भक्ता स्निग्धा यशस्विनी
sā hi śrāntaṃ kṣudhārtaṃ ca jānīte māṃ tapasvinī | anuraktā sthirā caiva bhaktā snigdhā yaśasvinī ||
Bhishma dit : «Cette femme ascète sait parfaitement que je suis épuisé et tourmenté par la faim. Pourtant, pour une raison quelconque, elle ne vient pas. Elle m’est profondément attachée, l’esprit ferme, dévouée, tendre, et de bonne renommée.»
भीष्म उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse highlights the ethical ideal of steadfast devotion and affectionate care (bhakti, snigdhatā) within relationships, alongside the expectation that one who knows another’s suffering (fatigue and hunger) should respond with timely support—linking inner virtue (steadiness, austerity) with practical compassion.
Bhishma describes an ascetic woman who is devoted and well-regarded, emphasizing that she knows his condition—he is tired and hungry—yet she has not come. His words underscore both her virtues and the puzzling delay in her response.