Shloka 9
रावण-सारथि-संवादः
Ravana and the Charioteer: Counsel, Omens, and Battlefield Conduct
निवर्तयरथंशीघ्रंयावन्नापैतिमेरिपुः ।यदिवाध्युषितोऽसित्वंस्मर्यतेयदिमेगुणः ।।।।
nivartaya rathaṃ śīghraṃ yāvan nāpaiti me ripuḥ | yadi vā adhyuṣito 'si tvaṃ smaryate yadi me guṇaḥ ||
Wende den Wagen eilends zurück, ehe mein Feind sich zurückzieht; wenn du wahrlich lange bei mir geweilt hast und wenn du noch meiner Verdienste gedenkst.
"If you remember that you lived long with me and know my virtues, quickly turn back the chariot before my adversary with draws.
FAQs
It stresses faithfulness grounded in shared history and recognized virtues: dharma in relationships includes remembering obligations formed through long association and acting accordingly.
Rāvaṇa commands the charioteer to return the chariot quickly so the confrontation with Rāma is not avoided.
Constancy in allegiance—remembering bonds and acting with timely resolve.