Srimad Bhagavatam — Navama Skandha, Shloka 4
Bhagīratha Brings Gaṅgā; Saudāsa’s Curse; Khaṭvāṅga’s Instant Renunciation
कोऽपि धारयिता वेगं पतन्त्या मे महीतले । अन्यथा भूतलं भित्त्वा नृप यास्ये रसातलम् ॥ ४ ॥
ko ’pi dhārayitā vegaṁ patantyā me mahī-tale anyathā bhū-talaṁ bhittvā nṛpa yāsye rasātalam
Sumagot si Inang Ganga: Kapag bumagsak ako mula sa langit tungo sa lupa, magiging napakalakas ng agos ko. Sino ang sasalo sa lakas na iyon? Kung walang sasalo, O hari, babutasin ko ang lupa at bababa sa Rasātala.
FAQs
This verse depicts Gaṅgā’s descent as overwhelmingly forceful—so powerful that without a capable supporter, her fall could split the earth and carry her into Rasātala.
She warns the king that her divine current cannot simply be dropped onto the earth; a powerful being must first bear and regulate her descent so the world is not harmed.
Even sacred power needs proper guidance and containment—like knowledge, emotion, or leadership—so it benefits others instead of causing damage.