Shloka 5

Yamavākya

The Words of Yama

Devanagari script

आत्मकार्यपरो यस्तु स्वामिनं च विलुंपति । भवेद्वेश्मनि मंदात्मा आखुः कल्पशतत्रयम् ॥ ५ ॥

Transliteration

ātmakāryaparo yastu svāminaṃ ca viluṃpati | bhavedveśmani maṃdātmā ākhuḥ kalpaśatatrayam || 5 ||

Translation

若有人只图自身利益而盗取、掠夺其主人的财物——此愚钝之人将于家宅中转生为鼠，历经三百劫。

Word by Word

आत्मकार्यपरःdevoted to his own work/self-interest

यःwho

तुbut/indeed

स्वामिनम्the master/lord

चand

विलुम्पतिrobs/plunders

भवेत्would become

वेश्मनिin the house

मन्दात्माa dull-witted person

आखुःa rat

कल्पशतत्रयम्three hundred kalpas

Speaker

Sanatkumara (teaching Narada in dialogue on dharma and consequences)

Vrata Kalpa

Vrata: none

Verse Rasa

Rasa: {"primary_rasa":"bhayanaka","secondary_rasa":"bibhatsa","emotional_journey":"Begins as a moral warning about selfish betrayal and culminates in fear-inducing karmic retribution through a degrading rebirth."}

FAQs

What is the spiritual significance of this verse in Narada Purana?

It warns that selfish betrayal and theft—especially against one’s rightful protector or employer—creates heavy pāpa leading to prolonged, degrading rebirth, emphasizing accountability under karma.

How does this verse explain the path of devotion (Bhakti)?

Bhakti is grounded in integrity and faithful conduct; harming one’s master for selfish gain contradicts sevā and surrender, which are foundational attitudes for Vishnu-bhakti.

What practical Vedic knowledge (Vedanga) is highlighted here?

It reflects Dharmaśāstra-style nīti (ethical discipline) rather than a technical Vedāṅga lesson; the practical takeaway is right livelihood and honest service as part of righteous conduct.