Shloka 3.49.4

सीताहरणम् — Ravana reveals his true form and abducts Sita

Devanagari script

अर्कं ऱुन्ध्यां शरैस्तीक्ष्णैर्विभिन्द्या हि महीतलम्।कामरूपिणमुन्मत्ते पश्य मां कामदं पतिम्।।3.49.4।।

Transliteration

naiṣa vārayituṃ śakyas tava krūro niśācaraḥ || 3.49.40 ||

sattvān jita-kāśī ca sāyudhaś caiva durmatiḥ |

Translation

You cannot restrain this cruel night-roamer; he is powerful, victorious in battle, armed, and wicked-minded.

Context

I can obstruct the Sun and shatter the earth with my sharp arrows. O mad woman! I am a husband who can fulfil your desires, and can assume any form at my own free will. Look at me.

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Jatāyu
• Rāvaṇa

FAQs

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

Practical wisdom within dharma: recognizing the strength of adharma is not surrender, but clear-eyed truth that prepares righteous action and responsible strategy.

What is the narrative situation?

Sītā, seeing Jaṭāyu, cries out about Rāvaṇa’s power and the danger of opposing him.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s realism and concern for an ally’s safety—an ethical caution even while seeking help.