Shloka 3.71.22

दनु-शापकथा तथा सीताहरण-प्रश्नः (Danu’s Curse Narrative and Rama’s Inquiry about Sita)

Devanagari script

नाममात्रं तु जानामि न रूपं तस्य रक्षसः।।3.71.22।।निवासं वा प्रभावं वा वयं तस्य न विद्महे।

Transliteration

nāmamātraṃ tu jānāmi na rūpaṃ tasya rakṣasaḥ | nivāsaṃ vā prabhāvaṃ vā vayaṃ tasya na vidmahe ||

Translation

I know only his name; I do not know the form of that rākṣasa—nor do we know his dwelling or his power.

Context

I only know his name. We do not know how he looks, where he lives and what influence he has.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Ravana
• Rakshasa (demon-kind)

FAQs

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

Satya includes admitting limits of knowledge; dharmic action requires clear understanding, so Rāma truthfully acknowledges what is unknown and seeks reliable guidance.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma explains that beyond the name ‘Rāvaṇa,’ he lacks details about the abductor’s appearance, location, and capabilities.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Intellectual honesty and humility—recognizing uncertainty rather than making reckless assumptions.