Shloka 3.31.39

अकम्पनवृत्तान्तः — Akampana Reports Janasthana; Ravana Plans Sita’s Abduction

Devanagari script

एवमुक्तो महातेजा मारीचेन स रावणः।ततः पश्चादिदं वाक्यमब्रवीद्वाक्यकोविदः।।3.31.39।।

Transliteration

evam ukto mahātejā mārīcena sa rāvaṇaḥ |

tataḥ paścād idaṃ vākyam abravīd vākya-kovidaḥ || 3.31.39 ||

Translation

Thus addressed by Mārīca, the radiant Rāvaṇa—skilled in speech—then replied with these words.

Context

Having thus been asked by Maricha, glorious Ravana, who was eloquent in speech, spoke to him :

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Mārīca

FAQs

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

It underscores that eloquence is ethically neutral: dharma requires that skill in speech be aligned with satya and right intention.

What is the narrative situation?

The narration transitions from Mārīca’s greeting to Rāvaṇa’s response.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Oratorical skill (vāk-cāturya), presented as capability rather than moral virtue.