Shloka 17
Gratitude, Discernment, and the Escalation of Power (Śvā–Dvipī–Vyāghra–Nāga–Siṃha–Śarabha Itihāsa)
ततः श्वा द्वीपितां नीतो जाम्बूनदनिभाकृति: । चित्राड़ो विस्फुरदंष्टो वने वसति निर्भय:
tataḥ śvā dvīpitāṃ nīto jāmbūnadanibhākṛtiḥ | citrāḍo visphuraddaṃṣṭo vane vasati nirbhayaḥ ||
Bhīṣma disse: “Então o cão foi transformado em leopardo. Sua forma adquiriu o brilho do ouro Jāmbūnada; seu corpo tornou-se malhado, e suas grandes presas cintilaram. Assim transformado, viveu na floresta sem medo.”
भीष्म उवाच
Educational Q&A
Fearlessness gained through external change (strength, status, form) is unstable; the narrative invites reflection on seeking lasting security through inner discipline and right understanding rather than mere outward empowerment.
A dog is transformed into a leopard by a sage’s agency; its body becomes spotted, its fangs shine, and it now lives in the forest without fear—marking a shift from vulnerability to apparent power.