Shloka 3.18.13

शूर्पणखाविरूपणम् (The Disfigurement of Śūrpaṇakhā)

Devanagari script

इति सा लक्ष्मणेनोक्ता कराला निर्णतोदरी।मन्यते तद्वचस्तथ्यं परिहासाविचक्षणा।।।।

Transliteration

iti sā lakṣmaṇenoktā karālā nirṇatodarī | manyate tad vacas tathyaṃ parihāsāvicakṣaṇā ||

Translation

Thus addressed by Lakṣmaṇa, that frightful, slack-bellied woman—unable to discern jest—took his words to be true.

Context

While Lakshmana was thus making fun of the dreadful, drooping-bellied Surpanakha, she presumed his words to be true.

Characters & Entities

• Lakṣmaṇa
• Śūrpaṇakhā

FAQs

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

It underscores the dharmic need for viveka (discernment): taking deceptive speech as truth leads to harmful choices and conflict.

What is the narrative situation?

Śūrpaṇakhā misunderstands Lakṣmaṇa’s mockery as sincere advice, prompting her to approach Rāma again with hostility toward Sītā.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Discernment is emphasized by its absence; the verse marks a turning point where delusion hardens into intent.