Mahabharata — Anushasana Parva, Shloka 28
Cyavana Explains His Tests; Kuśika Seeks Brāhmaṇya for His Line (च्यवन–कुशिक संवादः)
तद्बच: पूजयित्वा तु तथेत्याह स पार्थिव: । यथोपपन्नमाहारं तस्मै प्रादाज्जनाधिप
tad-vacaḥ pūjayitvā tu tathety āha sa pārthivaḥ | yathopapannam āhāraṃ tasmai prādāj janādhipaḥ ||
उन वचनों का आदर करके राजा ने कहा—“जैसी आज्ञा।” फिर जो भोजन तैयार था, वही लाकर उन्होंने मुनि के सामने समर्पित कर दिया।
भीष्म उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse underscores dharma through atithi-satkara: a ruler should honour a worthy guest’s words, assent respectfully, and provide appropriate sustenance promptly and according to what is properly available.
After hearing the sage’s instruction/request, the king respectfully agrees (“so be it”) and then brings the prepared, suitable food and offers it to the sage.