Shloka 2.1.6
गुणप्रशंसा–युवराजनिर्णयः (Praise of Rama’s Virtues and the Decision on the Heir-Apparent)
तेषामपि महातेजा रामो रतिकरःपितुः।स्वयम्भूरिव भूतानां बभूव गुणवत्तरः।।।।
teṣām api mahātejā rāmo ratikaraḥ pituḥ |
svayambhūr iva bhūtānāṃ babhūva guṇavattaraḥ ||
Among them, the mighty and radiant Rāma became his father’s delight; like the Self-born Brahmā to all beings, he was the most endowed with virtues.
Even among them the brilliant Rama was a source of delight to his father like the Self-born (Brahma) to all living beings.
Dharma as inner excellence: true worth is measured by guṇa (virtue) that benefits others—Rāma’s character becomes a source of joy and stability.
The narrator highlights Rāma’s preeminence among the brothers, explaining why he is especially cherished and later considered for royal responsibility.
Guṇavattā (abundance of virtues)—ethical excellence aligned with satya and benevolence.