Shloka 3.10.13

दशमः सर्गः — Rama’s Vow to Protect the Sages of Daṇḍaka (Dharma of Refuge)

Devanagari script

राक्षसैर्धर्षितानां च तापसानां तपस्विनाम्।गतिं मृगयमाणानां भवान्नः परमा गतिः।।।।

Transliteration

rākṣasair dharṣitānāṃ ca tāpasānāṃ tapasvinām | gatiṃ mṛgayamāṇānāṃ bhavān naḥ paramā gatiḥ ||

Translation

“For us ascetics, harassed by rākṣasas—helpless and seeking refuge—you are our highest shelter.”

Context

'You are the supreme refuge for us ascetics, tormented by demons, helpless men in search of shelter.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Rākṣasas
• Tāpasas (ascetics)

FAQs

What is the core ethical principle (Dharma) in this verse?

The dharmic ideal of śaraṇāgati: when the vulnerable seek refuge with the righteous, the righteous bear a duty to protect and uphold moral order.

What is the narrative situation?

The sages intensify their appeal, declaring Rāma their ultimate refuge amid rākṣasa oppression.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Trust in righteousness and rightful authority; the sages affirm that protection should come through dharmic kingship/heroism rather than retaliation by ascetics.