Shloka 3.31.43
अकम्पनवृत्तान्तः — Akampana Reports Janasthana; Ravana Plans Sita’s Abduction
सीतामिहानयस्वेति को ब्रवीति ब्रवीहि मे।रक्षोलोकस्य सर्वस्य कश्शृङ्गं छेत्तुमिच्छति।।3.31.43।।
sītām ihānayasveti ko bravīti bravīhi me | rakṣolokasya sarvasya kaḥ śṛṅgaṃ chettum icchati || 3.31.43 ||
Tell me plainly—who is it that says to you, ‘Bring Sītā here’? Speak clearly. Who is so intent on cutting off the very pinnacle of the entire rākṣasa race?
Tell me who asked you to bring Sita ? Who wishes to demolish the peak of the entire clan of demons ?
Dharma here appears as prudent restraint and moral clarity: Mārīca warns that pursuing Sītā is self-destructive for Rāvaṇa and disastrous for his people, implying that a ruler must not endanger the whole community for an unrighteous desire.
After Rāvaṇa proposes the plan involving Sītā, Mārīca challenges the source and wisdom of that command, implying it is a trap leading to the ruin of the rākṣasas.
Counseling wisdom (nīti) and foresight: Mārīca speaks as a cautious advisor highlighting consequences beyond personal impulse.