Rāmopākhyāna—Rāma–Sītā Origins and the Opening of Rāvaṇa’s Genealogy
पाण्डवाश्न महेष्वासा दूतवाक्यप्रचोदिता: । चिन्तयन्तस्तमेवार्थ नालभन्त सुखं क्वचित्
vaiśampāyana uvāca | pāṇḍavāś ca mahēṣvāsā dūtavākya-pracoditāḥ | cintayantas tam evārtham nālabhanta sukhaṃ kvacit ||
Vaiśampāyana said: The Pāṇḍavas—mighty archers—stirred by the messenger’s words, kept reflecting on that very matter, and could find no peace anywhere.
वैशम्पायन उवाच
Even when one is strong and righteous, difficult duties and consequential messages can disturb inner peace; ethical action often requires sustained reflection, not impulsive reaction.
After receiving an envoy’s message, the Pāṇḍavas—renowned warriors—brood over the issue it raises and are unable to feel comfort, indicating the gravity of the decision before them.