Shloka 3.38.9

अष्टत्रिंशः सर्गः — मारीचोपदेशः (Maricha’s Warning and the Memory of Rama’s Power)

Devanagari script

देवतानामपि भवान् समरेष्वभिपालकः।।3.38.9।।आसीत्तव कृतं कर्म त्रिलोके विदितं नृप।

Transliteration

devatānām api bhavān samareṣv abhipālakaḥ | āsīt tava kṛtaṁ karma triloke viditaṁ nṛpa || 3.38.9 ||

Translation

O king, you have served as a protector even of the gods in battle; your deeds are renowned throughout the three worlds.

Context

'O king, you have protected even gods in wars and have been a guardian. Your deeds are very well-known in the three worlds.

Characters & Entities

• nṛpa (king)
• devatāḥ (gods)
• triloka (three worlds)

FAQs

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

Authority is justified by protection: a king’s dharma is guardianship, and renown should reinforce responsibility, not ego.

What is the narrative situation?

The sage acknowledges the king’s proven valor and protective service, even on behalf of the gods, as background to his counsel.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Protective leadership (rakṣaṇa) and earned reputation grounded in service.