Shloka 2.14.58

सत्यपाशः — Kaikeyi’s Demand and the Noose of the King’s Promise

Devanagari script

इति तस्य वच श्शृत्वा सान्त्वपूर्वमिवार्थवत्।अभ्यकीर्यत शोकेन भूय एव महीपतिः।।।।

Transliteration

iti tasya vacaḥ śrutvā sāntvapūrvam ivārthavat | abhyakīryata śokena bhūya eva mahīpatiḥ ||

Translation

Hearing those meaningful words, spoken as if with gentle consolation, the lord of the earth was once again overwhelmed by grief.

Context

Hearing these meaningful words of Sumantra uttered in an appealing tone, the lord of the earth relapsed into grief.

Characters & Entities

• Sumantra
• Daśaratha

FAQs

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

The verse highlights the human cost when dharma-bound decisions collide with personal attachment; grief can surge even when counsel is sound and duty is clear.

What is the narrative situation?

After Sumantra’s persuasive counsel, Daśaratha does not regain composure; instead, he sinks again into sorrow.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sumantra’s compassionate speech is implied; Daśaratha’s vulnerability is foregrounded as a tragic limitation rather than a strength.