Shloka 2.118.31

अनसूयोपदेशः तथा सीताया स्वयंवरकथा (Anasuya’s Counsel and Sita’s Swayamvara Narrative)

Devanagari script

अन्तरिक्षे च वागुक्ताऽप्रतिमाऽमानुषी किल।एवमेतन्नरपते धर्मेण तनया तव।।2.118.31।।

Transliteration

antarikṣe ca vāg uktā ’pratimā ’mānuṣī kila | evam etan narapate dharmeṇa tanayā tava || 2.118.31 ||

Translation

And then a voice was heard from the sky, incomparable and not of human origin: “So it is, O king—by dharma, she is your daughter.”

Context

'O king, she is an incomparable divine being. By right she is your daughter'. These were the words (Janaka) heard from out of the sky.

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Janaka (implied by 'O king')
• ākāśa-vāṇī (celestial voice)

FAQs

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

Dharma is presented as the basis of legitimate relationship and duty: Sītā is declared Janaka’s daughter “by right,” establishing moral and social responsibility beyond mere biological origin.

What is the narrative situation?

Sītā recounts her beginnings: after her appearance, a heavenly voice confirms her extraordinary nature and affirms Janaka’s rightful fatherhood.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Janaka’s dharmic acceptance—he receives the divine instruction and accepts paternal duty in accordance with righteousness.