Shloka 3.57.2

मारीचवधोत्तरं रामस्य शङ्का-निमित्त-दर्शनं लक्ष्मण-निग्रहश्च (After Maricha’s Slaying: Omens, Anxiety, and Rama’s Rebuke of Lakshmana)

Devanagari script

तस्य सन्त्वरमाणस्य द्रष्टुकामस्य मैथिलीम्।क्रूरस्वनोऽथ गोमायुर्विननादास्य पृष्ठतः।।।।

Transliteration

aho lakṣmaṇa garhyaṃ te kṛtaṃ yas tvaṃ vihāya tām |

sītām ihāgatas saumya kaccit svasti bhaved iha ||

Translation

Alas, Lakṣmaṇa! Blameworthy is what you have done—leaving Sītā behind and coming here. O gentle one, can she truly be safe now?

Context

While Rama was hasting to see Sita, he heard from behind the ghastly howl of a jackal.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Lakshmana
• Sita

FAQs

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

Dharma as guardianship: one entrusted with protection must not abandon the protected person, especially in moments of danger.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma returns and realizes Sītā is not present; he reproaches Lakṣmaṇa for leaving her alone.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s insistence on responsibility and vigilance, even while he is emotionally shaken.