Shloka 3.10.15

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

Devanagari script

बहुविघ्नं तपो नित्यं दुश्चरं चैव राघव।तेन शापं न मुञ्चामो भक्ष्यमाणाश्च राक्षसैः।।।।

Transliteration

bahuvighnaṃ tapo nityaṃ duścaraṃ caiva rāghava | tena śāpaṃ na muñcāmo bhakṣyamāṇāś ca rākṣasaiḥ ||

Translation

O Rāghava, penance is ever beset with many obstacles and is hard to practice. Therefore we do not unleash curses, even though rākṣasas may devour us.

Context

'O Rama! it is difficult to perform penance which is ever full of obstacles. Therefore, we do not pronounce curses even if eaten up by demons'.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma (Rāghava)
• Rākṣasas
• Tapas
• Śāpa (curse)

FAQs

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

Dharma is forbearance aligned with one’s discipline: ascetics maintain restraint and do not weaponize spiritual power (curses) even under threat, prioritizing the integrity of tapas.

What is the narrative situation?

The sages clarify their non-retaliation: despite severe danger, they do not curse the rākṣasas, and thus request Rāma’s protection.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Kṣamā (forgiveness/forbearance) and steadfastness in spiritual practice amid suffering.