Shloka 3.34.26

आरण्यकाण्डे चतुस्त्रिंशः सर्गः — Śūrpaṇakhā Reports to Rāvaṇa; Rāma’s Might and Sītā’s Description

Devanagari script

विज्ञायेहात्मशक्तिं च ह्रियतामबला बलात्।सीता सर्वानवद्याङ्गी भार्यार्थे राक्षसेश्वर।।।।

Transliteration

vijñāyehātmaśaktiṃ ca hriyatām abalā balāt | sītā sarvānavadyāṅgī bhāryārthe rākṣaseśvara ||

Translation

First assess your own strength, O lord of the rākṣasas; do not carry off by force the delicate Sītā—faultless in every limb—merely to make her your wife.

Context

Assess your own strength, O Lord of the demons, before you forcefully abduct that delicate Sita who is charming in all respects and make her your wife.

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Rāvaṇa (Rākṣaseśvara)

FAQs

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

The verse highlights that coercion against the vulnerable (balāt haraṇa—abduction by force) is adharma; it also urges sober self-assessment before pursuing harmful desire.

What is the narrative situation?

Śūrpaṇakhā, after witnessing Rāma’s power, counsels Rāvaṇa regarding Sītā—implicitly warning against a forceful abduction and its consequences.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Prudence and restraint: the counsel stresses discernment (vijñāya) and the need to curb force-driven desire.