Shloka 3.40.2

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

Devanagari script

तं पथ्यहितवक्तारं मारीचं राक्षसाधिपः।अब्रवीत्परुषं वाक्यमयुक्तं कालचोदितः।।3.40.2।।

Transliteration

taṃ pathyahitavaktāraṃ mārīcaṃ rākṣasādhipaḥ | abravīt paruṣaṃ vākyam ayuktaṃ kālacoditaḥ || 3.40.2 ||

Translation

Driven onward by fate, the lord of the rākṣasas spoke harsh and improper words to Mārīca, though Mārīca had been offering wholesome and beneficial counsel.

Context

The king of the demons, driven by fate, replied with improper and harsh words to Maricha whose advice was salutary and beneficial to him :

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa (rākṣasādhipa)
• Mārīca

FAQs

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

Dharma includes respecting wise, beneficial advice; rejecting good counsel and speaking harshly is shown as a moral failing that accelerates downfall.

What is the narrative situation?

The narration describes Rāvaṇa’s reaction to Mārīca’s prudent advice—Rāvaṇa responds with anger and unfit speech.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

The virtue of हितवचन (speaking for another’s good) is attributed to Mārīca, while Rāvaṇa’s lack of self-control and receptivity is criticized.