Shloka 3.47.11

सीतारावणसंवादः — Ravana Reveals Himself; Sita Affirms Rama’s Dharma

Devanagari script

रामेति प्रथितो लोके गुणवान्सत्यवान्शुचिः।।3.47.11।।विशालाक्षो महाबाहुस्सर्वभूतहिते रतः।

Transliteration

brāhmaṇaś cātithiś cāyam anukto hi śapeta mām | iti dhyātvā muhūrtaṃ tu sītā vacanam abravīt ||3.47.2||

Translation

“He is a brahmin—and a guest as well; if I leave him unanswered, he might indeed curse me.” Thinking thus for a moment, Sītā spoke.

Context

My husband known in the world as Rama is large-eyed, long-armed, virtuous, truthful, pure and is always engaged in the welfare of all beings.

Characters & Entities

• Sita
• brahmin (brāhmaṇa)
• guest (atithi)

FAQs

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

Atithi-dharma: a guest—especially one perceived as a brahmin—should not be ignored; failing to respond is seen as adharmic and potentially invites a curse.

What is the narrative situation?

In the forest setting, Sītā sees an apparent brahmin-guest (Rāvaṇa in disguise) and, after a brief reflection, decides she must respond according to dharma.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s conscientious adherence to dharma (social-religious duty toward guests), even under uncertainty.