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 ||
Wika ni Bhīṣma: “Pagkaraan, ang aso ay ginawang leopardo. Ang anyo nito’y kumislap na tila ginto ng Jāmbūnada; ang katawan ay naging batik-batik, at ang malalaking pangil ay nagningning. Sa pagbabagong iyon, namuhay siya sa gubat nang walang takot.”
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.