Sexual Life in Ancient India: A Study in the Comparative History of Indian Culture v1.c5.61.3

v1.c5.61.3

How should another now touch the hand of me, the proud one, the hand that has been grasped by thee, the son of a Ṛishi, and a Ṛishi himself!” Yayāti spoke : “As more dangerous than an angry, flaming, venomous snake, everywhere darting, must the Brahman be recognized by the understanding man.” Devayānī spoke : “Why sayest thou, O prince of men : More dangerous than a flaming, venomous snake, everywhere darting, is the Brahman?” Yayāti spoke : “The venomous snake kills one man, and with a weapon one man alone is slain; the Brahman destroys even cities and kingdoms, when he is angered. Therefore do I hold the Brahman as more dangerous, O timid one. And therefore I will not wed thee, unless thy father gives thee to me.” Devayānī spoke : “Wed me, then, O king, when my father has given me thee, and I have chosen thee. For him that asks not, and only takes her that is given him, there is no danger.” Quickly the nurse then faithfully told Devayānī’s father all that Devayānī had entrusted her with for him. And so soon as the scion of the Bhṛigu had heard, he appeared before the king. And when Yayāti, the lord of the earth, saw C̣ukra coming, he showed honour unto the Brahman, the son of Kavi, and stood there with folded hands, humbly bowed. Devayānī spoke : “ This, O father, is the king, son of Nahusha. When I was in evil plight, he clasped my hand. Honour be to thee. Give me to him.