Shloka 2.100.7

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

Devanagari script

कच्चित्सौम्य न ते राज्यं भ्रष्टं बालस्य शाश्वतम्।कच्चिच्छुश्रूषसे तात पितरं सत्यविक्रमम्।।।।

Transliteration

mantribhis tvaṃ yathoddiṣṭaiś caturbhis tribhir eva vā |

kaccit samastair vyastaiś ca mantraṃ mantrayase mithaḥ ||

Translation

I trust you deliberate on affairs of state in strict confidence with the appointed counselors—three or four as prescribed—consulting them both collectively and individually.

Context

O gentle one, being young and inexperienced, I trust, you have not forfeited the kingdom for ever. Dear child, I trust, you are looking after father whose prowess is his truthfulness.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Bharata
• mantrin (counselors/ministers)

FAQs

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

Dharma in governance requires disciplined decision-making: consult wise advisors, preserve confidentiality, and avoid impulsive rule.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma instructs Bharata on proper ministerial consultation as part of ideal kingship.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Discretion and humility: a ruler should seek counsel, test opinions privately, and guard state secrets.