Shloka 2.107.13

पितृवाक्यपालनम्, गयाश्रुति-उपदेशः, भरतस्य राज्यग्रहण-निर्देशः (Rama’s Counsel on Vows, the Gaya Śruti, and Bharata’s Return to Rule)

Devanagari script

एष्टव्या बहवः पुत्रा गुणवन्तो बहुश्रुताः।तेषां वै समवेतानामपि कश्चिद्गयां व्रजेत्।।2.107.13।।

Transliteration

eṣṭavyā bahavaḥ putrā guṇavanto bahuśrutāḥ | teṣāṃ vai samavetānām api kaścid gayāṃ vrajet ||

Translation

Many sons—virtuous and well-learned—are to be desired, so that even if all are gathered together, at least one may go to Gayā to perform the rites for the ancestors.

Context

One should desire many virtuous and learned sons so that at least one of them may go to Gaya (to perform the father's obsequies).

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Bharata
• Gayā (sacred place)
• Pitṛ rites (implied)

FAQs

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

Dharma is continuity of familial and ancestral obligations: ensuring that at least one descendant can perform required rites sustains social and spiritual order.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma continues the traditional teaching connected with Gayā, emphasizing practical fulfillment of ancestral duties.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Responsibility toward lineage—valuing virtue and learning in children so duties can be carried out rightly.