Shloka 2.12.44

द्वादशः सर्गः — Kaikeyi’s Boons and Dasaratha’s Moral Collapse (Ayodhya Kanda 12)

Devanagari script

सागरस्समयं कृत्वा न वेलामतिवर्तते।समयं माऽनृतं कार्षीः पूर्ववृत्तमनुस्मरन्।।।।

Transliteration

sāgaraḥ samayaṃ kṛtvā na velām ativartate |

samayaṃ mā anṛtaṃ kārṣīḥ pūrvavṛttam anusmaran || 2.12.44 ||

Translation

The ocean, having made its compact, does not pass beyond the shore; remembering the deeds of former kings, do not make your pledge false.

Context

Having made the vow (to the gods), the ocean does not advance beyond the shore. Recollect the history of the earlier kings and do not make the vow false.

Characters & Entities

• Kaikeyī
• Daśaratha
• Ocean (Sāgara)

FAQs

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

Satya is aligned with cosmic order: even nature (the ocean’s boundary) models restraint and fidelity; a king must be at least as steady in keeping a pledge.

What is the narrative situation?

Kaikeyī uses an analogy and royal precedent to insist Daśaratha must not violate his promised boons.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Steadfastness (dhṛti) in honoring commitments—especially commitments publicly and solemnly made.