Shloka 2.111.23

अयोध्याकाण्डे एकादशोत्तरशततमः सर्गः (Sarga 111: Counsel on Gurus, Parental Debt, and Bharata’s Protest)

Devanagari script

एतच्चैवोभयं श्रुत्वा सम्यक्सम्पश्य राघव।उत्तिष्ठ त्वं महाबाहो मां च स्पृश तथोदकम्।।।।

Transliteration

etac caivobhayaṃ śrutvā samyak sampaśya rāghava |uttiṣṭha tvaṃ mahābāho māṃ ca spṛśa tathodakam ||

Translation

“Having heard both sides, reflect on it rightly, O Rāghava. Rise, O mighty-armed one; touch me, and then touch water (perform ācamana).”

Context

O mighty-armed son of the Raghus, you have heard both (them and me). Carefully think over. Arise. Touch me and sip water.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Bharata (addressed as Rāghava)
• udaka (water, for ācamana)

FAQs

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

Right action should follow careful listening and reflection; dharma is practiced with inner deliberation and outward discipline (ritual and self-control).

What is the narrative situation?

Rama directs Bharata to consider competing claims and then proceed formally, preparing to speak or act in a purified, orderly manner.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rama’s composure and procedural righteousness—he insists on thoughtful judgment and decorum even amid crisis.