Shloka 3.49.40

सीताहरणम् — Ravana reveals his true form and abducts Sita

Devanagari script

नैष वारयितुं शक्यस्तव क्रूरो निशाचरः।।3.49.40।।सत्त्वाञ्जितकाशी च सायुधश्चैव दुर्मतिः।

Transliteration

rāmāya tu yathātattvaṃ jaṭāyo haraṇaṃ mama || 3.49.41 ||

lakṣmaṇāya ca tat sarvam ākhyātavyam aśeṣataḥ |

Translation

O Jaṭāyu, you must tell Rāma the truth of my abduction exactly as it occurred—and tell Lakṣmaṇa too, in full, leaving nothing out.

Context

This night-ranger is equipped with weapons. Cruel, strong and evil-minded, he has won wars. You cannot stop him.

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Jatāyu
• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa

FAQs

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

Satya and completeness in testimony: dharmic action depends on accurate, unembellished truth, especially when justice and protection are at stake.

What is the narrative situation?

Sītā instructs Jaṭāyu to serve as a truthful witness and messenger to Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa about the abduction.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Integrity and responsibility in speech—truth as a moral duty that enables righteous response.