Shloka 3.52.2
सीताहरण-विलापः / The Lament at Jatāyu and the Abduction of Sītā
निमित्तं लक्षणज्ञानं शकुनिस्वरदर्शनम्।अवश्यं सुखदुःखेषु नराणां प्रतिदृश्यते।।।।
nimittaṃ lakṣaṇajñānaṃ śakunisvaradarśanam |
avaśyaṃ sukhaduḥkheṣu narāṇāṃ pratidṛśyate ||
For people, in times of joy and sorrow, signs are surely perceived—knowledge of omens, and the hearing or sighting of birds whose cries foretell what is to come.
People, for sure, foresee weal and woe in life from auspicious symptoms and ominous sounds.
The verse highlights moral attentiveness: humans should remain vigilant and reflective, recognizing that life’s turning points (joy or suffering) are often preceded by perceivable indicators. Dharma here is careful awareness rather than heedlessness.
During Sītā’s abduction sequence, the narration notes the presence and significance of omens—especially bird-cries and other signs—foreshadowing impending sorrow.
Prudence and discernment (viveka): the capacity to observe signs and respond thoughtfully to changing circumstances.