Shloka 2.1.9

गुणप्रशंसा–युवराजनिर्णयः (Praise of Rama’s Virtues and the Decision on the Heir-Apparent)

Devanagari script

स हि रूपोपपन्नश्च वीर्यवाननसूयकः।भूमौवनुपमस्सूनुर्गुणैर्दशरथोपमः।।।।

Transliteration

sa hi rūpopapannaś ca vīryavān anasūyakaḥ |

bhūmau anupamaḥ sūnur guṇair daśarathopamaḥ ||

Translation

For he—handsome, valiant, and free from envy—was, by his virtues, equal to Daśaratha; indeed, on earth Rāma was an incomparable son.

Context

Endowed with beauty and strengh, free from envy, and in virtues equal to Dasaratha, Rama was verily an incomparable son on earth.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Daśaratha
• Bhūmi (earth)

FAQs

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

Dharma is presented as inner excellence: freedom from envy (anasūyā) and steadfast virtue (guṇa). True worthiness for rule is grounded in character, not merely status.

What is the narrative situation?

At the opening of the Ayodhyā Kāṇḍa, the text establishes Rāma’s exemplary qualities, preparing the reader for the impending political and moral crisis around the succession.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Anasūyā (non-envy) along with vīrya (valor) and guṇa (ethical excellence), portraying Rāma as uniquely fit and emotionally disciplined.