Shloka 10
Vetasa-Nīti: The Reed and the Flood (वेतस-नीति)
कालज्ञ: समयज्ञश्न सदा वश्यश्न नोद्धत: | अनुलोमस्तथास्तब्धस्तेन नाभ्येति वेतस:
kālajñaḥ samayajñaś ca sadā vaśyaś ca noddhataḥ | anulomas tathāstabdhas tena nābhyeti vetasaḥ ||
Wika ni Sāgara: “Alam ng tambo ang panahon at ang nararapat na pagkakataon; kumikilos ito ayon doon. Lagi itong masunurin, hindi nagiging palalo o suwail. Nanatili itong kaayon at hindi tumitigas sa kapalaluan. Kaya hindi ito napipilitang lisanin ang kinalalagyan at mapadpad dito.”
सागर उवाच
Educational Q&A
The verse teaches nīti through the image of a reed: one should understand time and circumstance, remain self-controlled and humble, and avoid rigid pride. Flexibility and propriety prevent needless displacement and suffering.
Sāgara (the Ocean) speaks, pointing to the reed as an example. He explains that because the reed is timely, appropriate, compliant, and not arrogant, it is not compelled to leave its place and be swept away—unlike those who become stiff and proud.