Shloka 57
Trita in the Well (Udapāna-kathā) — Balarāma’s Tīrtha Observances
तासां तदू् वचन श्रुत्वा दक्ष: सोममथाब्रवीत् । सम॑ वर्तस्व भार्यासु मा त्वां शप्स्ये विरोचन,उनकी बात सुनकर दक्षने पुन: सोमसे कहा--'प्रकाशमान चन्द्रदेव! तुम अपनी सभी पत्नियोंके साथ समान बर्ताव करो, नहीं तो तुम्हें शाप दे दूँगा"
tāsāṁ tad vacanaṁ śrutvā dakṣaḥ somam athābravīt | samaṁ vartasva bhāryāsu mā tvāṁ śapsye virocanā ||
Vaiśampāyana said: Hearing the words of those wives, Dakṣa again addressed Soma: “O radiant Moon-god, conduct yourself with equal regard toward all your wives; otherwise I shall curse you.” The passage underscores the ethical demand of impartiality and restraint in marital conduct, warning that favoritism invites moral and social disorder and may draw punitive consequences.
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse teaches impartiality and self-restraint in relationships: one should treat all dependents or partners fairly, and favoritism—especially by one in a position of power—invites ethical fault and consequences.
After Soma’s wives complain about unequal treatment, Dakṣa confronts Soma and warns him to behave equally toward all his wives; otherwise Dakṣa will impose a curse.