Shloka 3.9.5
सीताया धर्मोपदेशः—शस्त्रसंयोगदोषकथा (Sita’s Counsel on Dharma and the Peril of Weapon-Association)
तव नास्ति मनुष्येन्द्र न चाभूत्ते कदाचन।।3.9.5।।मनस्यपि तथा राम न चैतद्विद्यते क्वचित्।
strīcāpalād etad udāhṛtaṃ me dharmaṃ ca vaktuṃ tava kaḥ samarthaḥ |
vicārya buddhyā tu sahānujena yad rocate tat kuru mā cireṇa ||
From a woman’s fickle impulse I have spoken all this. Who could truly instruct you in dharma? Consider with your own understanding, together with your younger brother, and do what seems right to you—do not delay.
O Rama, lord among men, you hadn't it (lust for other women) in the past. You havn't it now. Never does it exist even in your mind.
Dharma requires thoughtful deliberation (vicāra) rather than impulsive speech; wise action is chosen after reflection and counsel.
Sītā concludes her counsel by acknowledging emotional impulsiveness and defers to Rāma’s superior judgment, advising him to consult Lakṣmaṇa and decide promptly.
Humility and ethical prudence—recognizing limits of one’s counsel and valuing reflective decision-making.