Narada Purana — Purva Bhaga, Shloka 160
Vāmana’s Advent, Aditi’s Hymn, Bali’s Gift, and the Mahatmya of Bhū-dāna
गत्वा याचितवान्भूमिं पञ्चहस्तायतां बले । सुघोषो धर्मनिरतस्तं निरीक्ष्य कुटुम्बिक्रम् ॥ १६० ॥
gatvā yācitavānbhūmiṃ pañcahastāyatāṃ bale | sughoṣo dharmaniratastaṃ nirīkṣya kuṭumbikram || 160 ||
Setibanya di sana, dia memohon sebidang tanah sepanjang lima hasta. Sughoṣa, yang tekun pada dharma, meneliti si penghuni rumah itu serta keadaan keluarganya.
Narada (narrating within the dialogue to the Sanatkumara tradition)
Vrata: none
Primary Rasa: shanta
Secondary Rasa: karuna
FAQs
It highlights dharmic discernment: even a small request (a five-cubit plot) should be evaluated with righteousness, considering the seeker’s situation and the householder’s responsibility.
Bhakti is expressed through dharma in action—supporting others with integrity and careful judgment; such righteous giving becomes a devotional offering when aligned with sacred duty.
The verse reflects practical measurement and propriety in gifts—using standard units like hasta (cubit) and emphasizing disciplined conduct, aligning with ritual-order concerns rather than a specific Vedanga doctrine.