Shloka 3.20.13

विंशः सर्गः (Sarga 20): शूर्पणखाप्रेरितराक्षसवधः — The Slaying of the Fourteen Demons Sent by Śūrpaṇakhā

Devanagari script

का हि ते शक्तिरेकस्य बहूनां रणमूर्धनी।अस्माकमग्रतः स्थातुं किं पुनर्योद्दुमाहवे।।।।

Transliteration

kā hi te śaktir ekasya bahūnāṃ raṇamūrdhani | asmākam agrataḥ sthātuṃ kiṃ punar yoddhum āhave ||

Translation

What strength can you, a lone man, have at the very forefront of battle against many? How could you even stand before us—much less fight in war?

Context

How can you face us alone? We outnumber you? Leave alone fighting, you cannot even stand in front of us.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• rākṣasas

FAQs

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

The verse contrasts mere numerical strength with true dharmic strength (inner resolve, righteousness, and skill); it cautions against judging justice by majority or force.

What is the narrative situation?

The demons mock Rama for standing alone, claiming he cannot face their numbers.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rama’s fearlessness and steadfastness are set up implicitly, as he stands alone without yielding.