Shloka 9
स्वयंप्रभा
प्रश्नोत्तरम् / Svayamprabha Explains the Golden Forest and Questions the Vanaras
एवमुक्ता हनुमता तापसी धर्मचारिणी।।4.51.9।।प्रत्युवाच हनूमन्तं सर्वभूतहिते रता।
evam uktā hanumatā tāpasī dharmacāriṇī || 4.51.9 || pratyuvāca hanūmantaṃ sarvabhūtahite ratā |
Assim interpelada por Hanuman, a asceta—firme no dharma e dedicada ao bem de todos os seres—respondeu-lhe.
'By whose prowess are these golden trees yielding sacred fragrant flowers and fruits? How are these golden lotuses created in the clear water? How is it that here are golden fishes and tortoises? Whose fruit of penance is this? Is it by your power? We do not know. You should tell all of us everything'.
FAQs
Dharma as universal welfare (sarvabhūta-hita): righteousness is measured by compassion and benefit to all beings, not merely personal attainment.
After Hanuman’s questions, the text introduces the ascetic as dharma-abiding and benevolent, and notes that she begins her reply.
Compassionate righteousness—the ascetic’s identity is defined by dharma-practice and concern for all creatures.