Shloka 2.100.55

शततमः सर्गः — Rāma Questions Bharata on Rājadharma (Governance, Counsel, and Public Welfare)

Devanagari script

देवतार्थे च पित्रर्थेब्राह्मणाभ्यागतेषु च।योधेषु मित्रवर्गेषु कच्चिद्गच्छति ते व्ययः।।।।

Transliteration

devatārthe ca pitrarthe brāhmaṇābhyāgateṣu ca | yodheṣu mitravargeṣu kaccid gacchati te vyayaḥ ||

Translation

Is your expenditure directed to proper duties—offerings to the gods and ancestors, support for brahmins and guests, and due provision for warriors and allied friends?

Context

I trust, you are spending only on gods, ancestors, brahmins, guests, warriors and hosts of friends.

Characters & Entities

• Devatā (gods)
• Pitṛ (ancestors)
• Brāhmaṇas
• Guests (abhyāgata)
• Warriors (yodhas)
• Allies/Friends (mitravarga)

FAQs

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

Public wealth should be spent according to dharma: sustaining sacred duties, hospitality, learned communities, defense, and loyal alliances—rather than indulgence or corruption.

What is the narrative situation?

Rama assesses whether Bharata’s rule aligns with traditional duties of a righteous king, especially in allocating expenditures.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Duty-bound generosity and accountable stewardship—supporting religion, society, and security.