Shloka 3.36.17

मारीचप्रलोभनम् / Ravana Solicits Maricha’s Aid (Golden Deer Stratagem)

Devanagari script

एतदर्थमहं प्राप्तस्त्वत्समीपं निशाचर।शृणु तत्कर्म साहाय्ये यत्कार्यं वचनान्मम।।।।

Transliteration

etadarthamahaṃ prāptastvatsamīpaṃ niśācara | śṛṇu tatkarma sāhāyye yatkāryaṃ vacanānmama ||

Translation

O night-wanderer, I have come into your presence for this specific purpose. Listen to my words about the task that must be accomplished with your assistance.

Context

I have come to you for this purpose seeking your help. Listen to my words on what you should do:

Characters & Entities

• Ravana
• Maricha

FAQs

Why does Ravana approach Maricha in this verse?

Ravana approaches Maricha to solicit his magical assistance in the abduction of Sita, marking a pivotal moment where personal vendetta overrides the code of Dharma.

What is the implication of the address 'Nishacara'?

By addressing Maricha as 'Nishacara' (Night-wanderer), Ravana appeals to their shared demonic lineage and the inherent nature of Rakshasas to operate through illusion and stealth.