Shloka 3.40.14

मारीचोपदेश-प्रतिषेधः / Ravana Rejects Maricha’s Counsel and Orders the Golden Deer Deception

Devanagari script

त्वं तु धर्ममविज्ञाय केवलं मोहमास्थितः।अभ्यागतं मां दौरात्म्यात्परुषं वक्तुमिच्छसि।।3.40.14।।

Transliteration

tvaṃ tu dharmam avijñāya kevalaṃ moham āsthitaḥ |

abhyāgataṃ māṃ daurātmyāt paruṣaṃ vaktum icchasi ||

Translation

But you, not understanding dharma and clinging only to delusion, wish—out of malice—to speak harshly to me, a guest who has come to you.

Context

You do not know your rightful duty.Because of delusion and an evil mind, you want to speak only harsh words to me, a guest who has come to you.

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Mārīca
• Guest (abhyāgata)

FAQs

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

Atithi-dharma (duty toward a guest) and vāk-dharma (righteous speech): one should not meet a visitor with harshness; dharma requires restraint and propriety.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa accuses Mārīca of speaking disrespectfully despite Rāvaṇa presenting himself as an arriving ‘guest’ seeking assistance.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Respectful, dharmic speech—highlighted through Rāvaṇa’s complaint (even as he misuses dharma language).