Shloka 3.4.21

विराधवधः — The Slaying (Burial) of Viradha

Devanagari script

इतो वसति धर्मात्मा शरभङ्गः प्रतापवान्।।3.4.20।।अध्यर्धयोजने तात महर्षिस्सूर्यसन्निभः।तं क्षिप्रमधिगच्छ त्वं स ते श्रेयोऽभिधास्यति।।3.4.21।।

Transliteration

adhyardhayojane tāta maharṣiḥ sūryasannibhaḥ |

taṃ kṣipram adhigaccha tvaṃ sa te śreyo 'bhidhāsyati ||

Translation

Dear one, that great seer—radiant like the Sun—dwells a yojana and a half from here. Go to him quickly; he will declare to you what is truly for your welfare.

Context

O dear, there lives Sarabhanga, a righteous sage, comparable to the Sun, at a distance of one and a half yojanas from here. Go to him at once. He will bless you with your wellbeing.

Characters & Entities

• Śarabhaṅga
• Rāma
• Virādha

FAQs

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

Dharma is choosing śreyas (the truly beneficial) over impulse. The verse teaches that one should seek guidance from realized sages to discern the right path.

What is the narrative situation?

Virādha, now restrained, points out the location of Śarabhaṅga and urges Rāma to meet him promptly for guidance.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Discernment and readiness to learn: Rāma is directed to consult a maharṣi for what is truly beneficial, highlighting teachability and respect for spiritual authority.