A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.2131

c5.2131

Vasistha, the family priest, had done nothing to assuage the wrath of the aggrieved father, and this offended Tri-sanku. At the end of his penance, being in want of meat, he killed Vasistha’s wonder-working cow and partook of her flesh; for this act Vasistha gave him the name of Tri-sanku, ‘guilty of three sins.’ Viswāmitra was grateful for the assistance rendered by Tri-sanku, and gave him the choice of a boon. He begged that he might ascend bodily to heaven. Viswāmitra then installed Tri-sanku in his father’s kingdom, “and in spite of the resistance of the gods and of Vasistha he exalted the king alive to heaven.”