Shloka 3.55.7

रावणस्य सीताप्रलोभनम् (Ravana’s Attempt to Allure Sita)

Devanagari script

हर्म्यप्रासादसम्बाधं स्त्रीसहस्रनिषेवितम्।नानापक्षिगणैर्जुष्टं नानारत्नसमन्वितम्।।3.55.7।।दान्तकैस्तापनीयैश्च स्फाटिकै राजतैरपि।वज्रवैडूर्यचित्रैश्च स्तम्भैर्दृष्टिमनोहरैः।।3.55.8।।दिव्यदुन्दुभिनिर्ह्रादं तप्तकाञ्चनतोरणम्।

Transliteration

harmyaprāsādasambādhaṃ strīsahasraniṣevitam |

nānāpakṣigaṇair juṣṭaṃ nānāratnasamanvitam || 3.55.7 ||

Translation

It was thronged with mansions and palaces, attended by thousands of women, filled with many flocks of birds, and adorned with a variety of gems.

Context

His home was a complex of palaces and mansions served by thousands of women. It was an abode of different flocks of birds. It had captivating pillars studded with gold, crystals, silver, diamonds and vaiduryas. It resounded with wonderful sounds of drums. Its golden entrances were glittering.

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Rāvaṇa’s residence (in Laṅkā, implied)

FAQs

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

External prosperity is ethically neutral; dharma is measured by conduct. The narrative sets up a contrast between dazzling wealth and unrighteous action.

What is the narrative situation?

The poem describes the magnificence of the residence Rāvaṇa displays to Sītā after abducting her.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

By implication, Sītā’s integrity: the text emphasizes the palace’s allure, preparing for her refusal to be swayed by luxury.