Shloka 2.109.25

सत्यधर्मप्रतिपादनम् (Rama’s Defense of Truth and Dharma in Reply to Jabali)

Devanagari script

स्थिरा मया प्रतिज्ञाता प्रतिज्ञा गुरुसन्निधौ।प्रहृष्यमाणा सा देवी कैकेयी चाभवत्तदा।।2.109.25।।

Transliteration

sthirā mayā pratijñātā pratijñā guru-sannidhau |

prahṛṣyamāṇā sā devī kaikeyī cābhavat tadā ||2.109.25||

Translation

In my father’s presence I made a firm vow; and at that time Queen Kaikeyī became greatly delighted.

Context

I had taken a firm vow in the presence of my father (about my stay in the forest). And then Devi Kaikeyi was immensely delighted.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Daśaratha (guru/father)
• Kaikeyī
• Pratijñā (vow)

FAQs

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

A vow made in a solemn setting (before elders/authority) binds one’s conduct; dharma values steadfastness once a pledge is given.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma recalls the moment he affirmed the exile vow before Daśaratha, noting Kaikeyī’s satisfaction—underscoring the vow’s public and consequential nature.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Steadfastness (dhṛti): unwavering commitment to what was promised.